This salmon spread is creamy, tasty, and perfect for spreading on crackers or bread. With fresh salmon, cream cheese, and a hint of lemon, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Whenever I make it, my friends can’t get enough! I love to serve it at parties—just watch it disappear! It’s so simple to whip up, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Salmon: Fresh salmon gives great flavor, but canned salmon (in water or oil) works too. For a budget-friendly option, use canned tuna instead!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Mayonnaise: It enhances the creaminess. Substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier choice, or use avocado for a unique flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Dill and parsley brighten the spread. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs will work, though fresh is always better for punchy flavor.
Shallots/Onion: Shallots have a milder taste. Red onion or green onions also work well. If you want less bite, you can lightly sauté them first.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon Spread is Creamy and Delicious?
The secret to a smooth and creamy salmon spread lies in the mixing process. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Start with softened cream cheese so it blends easily. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
- Use a fork or a hand mixer to whip the cream cheese and mayonnaise first. This helps prevent lumps and creates a creamy base.
- When adding salmon and other ingredients, gently fold them in rather than stirring too vigorously. You want to keep some chunky texture while blending everything well.
- Let the spread chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
How to Make Salmon Spread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cooked salmon (fresh or canned), flaked
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 small shallot or 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp capers, drained and chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick, fun, and a great way to whip up something delicious in no time! Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a fork or a hand mixer to blend them together until the mixture is smooth with no lumps. This will create a nice, creamy base for your spread!
2. Adding Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, add the flaked salmon, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, finely chopped shallot (or onion), chopped dill, and parsley to the creamy mixture. These ingredients bring in wonderful flavor and freshness!
3. Folding Everything Together:
Carefully fold the ingredients together using a spatula or spoon. Mix until everything is well combined, but try to keep it slightly chunky for texture. You want to enjoy bites of salmon in your spread!
4. Seasoning It Right:
Once mixed, season your salmon spread with a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper. If you decided to include capers, now’s the time to fold them in. They add a lovely briny flavor.
5. Chilling and Serving:
Transfer the salmon spread to a serving dish and garnish with an extra sprinkle of chopped dill on top. Now, refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Enjoying Your Treat:
Once chilled, your salmon spread is ready to enjoy! Serve it with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggies. It’s a delightful appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress!
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful salmon spread as a perfect appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Canned Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned salmon works perfectly for this recipe and makes it even quicker to prepare. Just ensure it’s properly drained and flaked before mixing it in.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftover salmon spread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.
Can I Make This Spread Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or goat cheese instead of cream cheese. These options will give the spread a different, but delicious, flavor and texture!
