Over the years, I’ve tested many appetizer recipes on my pals, and (except for a few of the top-notch appetizers in my cookbook), I have never heard them gush profusely the way they did over this smoked salmon dip. I set down the dip, then watched. G-O-N-E. People were elbowing each other at the bowl to get more bites! The star power of this appetizer is one that I’ve rarely seen rivaled. (Hot Crab Dip and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms created a similar stampede effect.) Plus, it gets better—smoked salmon dip can be made completely in advance. Prep it the day before your party, then do your best to stay away from it.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Dip
This healthy smoked salmon dip is made with a blend of light cream cheese and Greek yogurt, hot smoked salmon (which you can buy ready to go—more on this below), and simple spices you already have in your cabinet. For another tasty salmon appetizer, don’t miss these Salmon Croquettes.
The Ingredients
Hot Smoked Salmon. Tender, flaky, and deeply-flavored, hot smoked salmon creates a truly scrumptious dip with a smoky flavor. Hot smoked salmon is also healthy. It’s rich in protein, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. (Looking for dinner recipes? Check out these salmon recipes.)
Cream Cheese. Light cream cheese provides all the richness and creaminess this dip needs. (It’s also my trick to these lightened-up Jalapeño Poppers.)Greek Yogurt. I knew I wanted to make smoked salmon dip no mayo, and Greek yogurt was the perfect addition. It’s creamy, tangy (like a smoked salmon dip with sour cream), and packed with protein. Spicy Brown Mustard. Earthy and a little bit spicy.Dill. For freshness and herb flavor. Plus, salmon and dill are absolutely delicious together. (I submit this Poached Salmon as evidence.)
Hot Sauce. The ingredient that keeps you coming back for more. Classic Tabasco sauce is my go-to for this recipe.Lemon. Gives the dip a pop of acidity and brightness. (I also love to serve lemon beside these Salmon Patties too.)
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. 3 to 4 days is how long smoked salmon dip will last in the fridge. Refrigerate it in an airtight storage container. To Freeze. In my opinion, you cannot freeze salmon dip. I think the texture will be off once the dip has thawed.
Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
Mixing Bowls. A high-quality set of mixing bowls is invaluable in my kitchen.Whisk. This whisk is small, making it easy to use.Citrus Juicer. The easiest (and cleanest!) way to juice lemons and limes.
Smoked salmon dip FOR THE APPETIZER WIN! Cold smoked salmon tastes great on bagels with cream cheese or on salads, but I prefer the thicker, meatier texture and more robust flavor of hot smoked salmon for a dip. For a fun swap, you could make smoked salmon dip with capers instead of or in addition to the dill.
Pita Chips. One of our favorite things to dip with. Bagel Chips. These are perfectly crunchy and delicious. Crostini. A fantastic, slightly-elevated way to serve this dip for parties. Veggies. Crisp, raw veggies are a fantastic dipping option. Try veggies like radish chips, carrot sticks, and/or celery.Crackers. Dunk your favorite crackers into this dip.
Christmas Appetizer Bites
25 mins
Pesto Pinwheels
55 mins
Brie Bites
Leave a rating below in the comments and let me know how you liked the recipe. Not that I’m competing or anything.
Smoked Salmon Dip Video
If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our YouTube channel. Be sure to click the BELL icon so you can be the first to know when we post a new video (and thank you for subscribing!).
Roasted Red Pepper Dip
5 mins
Greek Layer Dip
20 mins
Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip
3 mins