I'm Caitlin - culinary hostess, wellness retreat curator, and homebody at heart. This blog is where I share seasonal recipes, intentional living tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from my kitchen, travels, and retreats.
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Creamy, bright, and quietly impressive, this smoked salmon dip is the kind of recipe that makes hosting feel easy. It comes together quickly, can be made ahead, and delivers that perfect balance of rich, fresh, and savory – ideal for gatherings where you want something delicious without having to overthink it.
When hosting, I always reach for recipes that do more than one thing well – this smoked salmon dip checks every box. It’s simple to prepare, deeply flavorful, and versatile enough to serve with crackers, crostini, fresh vegetables, or kettle chips, depending on the occasion.
This is the kind of dish that feels at home on a casual snack board or as part of a more polished spread. A few quality ingredients, thoughtful seasoning, and a short chill time are all it takes to let these flavors shine.
Designed for easy entertaining and make-ahead hosting
Balanced flavors : creamy, citrusy, briny, and fresh
No cooking required
Adaptable for casual gatherings or higher end hors d’oeuvres
This recipe was created with hosts in mind – simple steps, clear guidance, and dependable results.
INGREDIENTS
Full-fat cream cheese, softened for easy mixing
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Smoked salmon, finely chopped
Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest
Capers
Fresh dill & chives
Dijon mustard
Freshly cracked pepper
Sea salt
EQUIPMENT
Medium mixing bowl
Hand mixer or sturdy spatula
Microplane or zester
Sharp knife for chopping
Airtight container (for chilling and storage)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
In a medium bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps.
Fold in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until the mixture is light and creamy.
Stir in the smoked salmon, lemon juice, lemon zest, capers, dill, chives, and Dijon mustard until evenly combined.
Season with freshly cracked black pepper and a small pinch of sea salt, tasting as you go.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
MAKE-AHEAD & STORAGE TIPS
This smoked salmon dip can be made up to one day ahead, and the flavor actually improves overnight. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Before serving, let the dip sit at room temperature for 10 – 15 minutes so it’s soft and easy to scoop.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this smoked salmon dip ahead of time?
Yes. This recipe is ideal for make-ahead entertaining and tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely. Greek yogurt creates a slightly tangier dip while keeping it light and creamy.
What type of smoked salmon works best?
Cold-smoked salmon is ideal for its silky texture and mild flavor. Hot-smoked salmon will work but creates a firmer, flakier dip.
How should I serve smoked salmon dip?
This dip pairs well with seeded crackers, crostini, kettle chips, cucumber slices, or endive leaves.
Can I freeze smoked salmon dip?
Freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture can become grainy once thawed.
HOSTING TIPS
This dip works beautifully in both relaxed and more composed settings. For a casual presentation, transfer the dip to a shallow bowl and garnish just before guests arrive. A drizzle of olive oil, extra chopped herbs, or a sprinkle of lemon zest instantly gives it a fresh, finished look. Serve alongside ridged kettle chips, seeded crackers, or crisp cucumber rounds for contrast.
For a more refined approach, turn the dip into a bite-sized hors d’oeuvre rather than serving it family-style. Spoon or pipe it onto thick cucumber rounds, endive leaves, or crispy potato chips for a clean, one or two-bite option. Finish with a small flourish – fresh dill fronds, lemon zest, or finely chopped chives – to make each bite feel thoughtful and intentional.
For extra richness, drizzle olive oil over the top before serving.
Add 1/2 teaspoon prepared horseradish for a sharper bite.
Let sit at room temperature briefly for best texture.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Chill Time:30 minutes
Category:Hors d’oeuvre
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:American
Caitlin Lindsey
post author
Caitlin is the creative visionary behind Fit to Entertain, where food, wellness, and intentional living come together. She's passionate about helping others bring joy to the table and live beautifully - one meal at a time.
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