Smoked Salmon Spread

This Smoked salmon spread is a great appetizer for any party. Hot smoked salmon gives it a smoky flavor, and briny capers add a punch of flavor.

Use this as a spread for pinwheel sandwiches and flatbread like naan or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables, sourdough crackers, and pita chips. Or just eat it straight up with a spoon! It’s delicious either way.

If you’re looking for an easy and tasty appetizer to bring to your next party, this hot smoked salmon spread is always a hit. And check out all of our smoked salmon recipes.

Here is Why This Recipe Works

• Hot smoked salmon will give the dip a smokier flavor than cold-smoked salmon.
  
• Salty, brined capers, roasted red peppers, and fresh lemon and dill create a superb combination that plays well with the bold salmon flavor.
  
• You can use this as a sandwich spread or a dip.

Ingredients for Hot-Smoked Salmon Dip

Here is a list of the ingredients you will need for this recipe. Scroll down to the printable recipe card for all the details. 

• Cream cheese. You can use the block-style cream cheese or the kind that comes in a tub.
• Zest and juice of one lemon
• Olive oil
• Hot-smoked salmon. Use our recipe for Traeger smoked salmon or purchase some from the store.
• Roasted red pepper. Find these in the deli section of the store or make some grilled peppers.
• Scallions (green onions). You can also use chives.
• Garlic
• Capers
• Fresh dill

How to Make Smoked Salmon Spread

Here is a brief overview to get an idea of what to expect with the recipe. Scroll down to the printable recipe card for all the details.

1. Combine the cream cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir until smooth.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and stir until well combined.
3. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Tips for Success

• Use hot smoked salmon for the best results. It is flakier and smokier than cold-smoked salmon. If you have cold-smoked salmon, try making our smoked salmon pinwheels or smoked salmon crostini.
  
• You can use either whipped cream cheese that comes in a tub or block-style cream cheese.
  
• If you use block cream cheese, make sure you let it sit at room temperature to get soft. Whipped cream cheese will already be soft and spreadable.
  
• Let the smoked salmon spread get soft before serving. We usually let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before guests arrive. 
  
• The capers and the hot smoked salmon add plenty of saltiness to this spread. Wait until all the ingredients get mixed, then taste the salmon dip to determine if it needs salt. 
  
• You can usually find capers near the pickles and olives in the condiment aisle. 
  
• Look for roasted red peppers in the deli section of most grocery stores or substitute them with sundried tomatoes (finely chopped). Alternatively, you can roast your bell peppers at home (see the notes section in the printable recipe card for details).

You can use this smoked salmon recipe as a sandwich spread or a dip. Hot smoked salmon gives it a rich, smoky flavor, and cream cheese gives it a smooth, creamy texture. It is an easy and delicious appetizer that keeps well if you make it in advance. 

Some Other Recipes We Are Sure You Will Love:

This delicious hot smoky bacon bean dip is perfect for your next get-together! This creamy dip is ideal as an appetizer before the big game.

This delectable Roasted Garlic Spread is hard to resist! To prepare a quick and easy appetizer, spread it on toasted baguette slices.

This hot crab dip is a rich and creamy seafood appetizer that goes great with toasted bread or crispy crackers. Try it with homemade einkorn wheat thins or Parmesan crackers.

This recipe was originally published on August 12, 2015. We updated the photos and added some helpful tips.