Salmon Cream Cheese Recipe

This creamy and flavorful salmon spread is perfect for any occasion. With a base of whipped cream cheese, fresh dill, capers, and tender salmon, it makes an ideal dip for crackers, toast, or vegetables.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon capers
• 1 1/4 cups flaked cooked salmon

Directions

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently stir in the chopped dill and capers into the whipped cream cheese mixture.
3. Carefully fold in the flaked cooked salmon, making sure its evenly distributed.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	231
Total Fat	19g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	68mg
Sodium	358mg
Total Carbohydrates	2g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	13g
Vitamin C	2mg
Calcium	45mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	236mg

Servings per recipe: 6

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Salmon Cream Cheese

Salmon cream cheese, a staple of American brunch culture, has roots that trace back to the early 20th century when bagels and smoked fish became popular in Jewish-American communities, particularly in New York City. The combination of creamy cheese with the rich, savory flavor of salmon offered a luxurious yet simple spread for bread and bagels. Over time, this dish evolved from a regional specialty into a beloved appetizer served across the United States.

Regional Variations and Specialties

While the classic version typically features smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and fresh dill, regional adaptations have emerged. On the West Coast, for example, chefs often use fresh Pacific salmon and add avocado or lemon zest to enhance the flavor. In the Northeast, smoked Atlantic salmon remains the favorite, paired with pickled red onions or horseradish. These subtle differences reflect local seafood availability and culinary traditions.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Salmon cream cheese stands out from other spreads and dips such as pimento cheese or tuna salad by its combination of a smooth, whipped base with delicate fish flavor. Unlike tuna or crab dips, the salmon is typically flaked and mixed lightly, preserving its texture rather than being mashed into a paste. The addition of capers and dill introduces a tangy, aromatic quality that differentiates it from more straightforward cheese spreads.

Common Occasions and Serving Suggestions

This versatile spread is most commonly served on bagels during breakfast or brunch, often accompanied by thinly sliced onions, cucumbers, or tomatoes. It also works beautifully as an appetizer with crackers, toast points, or as part of a charcuterie board. Its creamy texture and mild, savory flavor make it ideal for casual gatherings, holiday brunches, and elegant cocktail parties alike.

Interesting Facts and Cultural Notes

One fascinating fact about salmon cream cheese is that it played a role in popularizing bagels in mainstream American cuisine. Jewish immigrants brought bagels to the United States in the late 19th century, but the spread of cream cheese and smoked salmon transformed them into a signature brunch item. Additionally, the dishs combination of protein, healthy fats, and rich flavor has made it a go-to for both indulgence and nutrition. Today, salmon cream cheese continues to inspire variations, from gourmet versions with truffle oil to healthier recipes using Greek yogurt in place of some of the cream cheese.

FAQ about Salmon Cream Cheese Recipe

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