Ina Garten’s Irresistible Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe

Creamy, tangy smoked salmon dip transforms ordinary gatherings into memorable culinary moments with its irresistible blend of maritime richness.

Maritime enthusiasts and flavor adventurers appreciate this elegant appetizer that balances delicate seafood nuances with zesty undertones.

Smooth textures mingle with sharp hints of herbs and spice, creating a sophisticated spread that elevates any social occasion.

Each spoonful promises a luxurious experience that combines traditional coastal ingredients with contemporary culinary flair.

Sophisticated yet approachable, this recipe speaks to both novice cooks and seasoned food lovers seeking something extraordinary.

Guests will be impressed by the complex layers of flavor that emerge from such a simple preparation.

Prepare to transform your next gathering with this crowd-pleasing sensation that promises instant culinary admiration:

Why Ina’s Smoked Salmon Dip Feels So Luxe

• Whip Up Effortless Elegance: This smoked salmon dip transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated appetizer that looks and tastes like you've spent hours in the kitchen, when it actually takes just minutes to prepare.
• Flavor Explosion in Every Bite: The combination of tangy cream cheese, zesty horseradish, fresh dill, and rich smoked salmon creates a multi-layered taste experience that dances across your palate with creamy, smoky, and bright notes.
• Versatile Party Pleaser: Perfect for cocktail parties, game day gatherings, or casual weekend entertaining, this dip works beautifully with crisp crackers, fresh vegetable crudités, and can be made ahead of time, reducing last-minute stress.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Wow: Using an electric mixer makes the preparation super quick and easy, ensuring even home cooks with limited skills can create a restaurant-worthy appetizer that will impress guests and satisfy diverse taste preferences.

What You’ll Need for Salmon Dip Perfection

• Cream Cheese: Soft, tangy base that provides a creamy and smooth texture for the dip.
• Smoked Salmon: Rich, salty fish that adds a luxurious flavor and protein to the dip.

• Dill, Horseradish: Fresh herbs and spicy condiment that bring brightness and a zesty kick to the dip.
• Sour Cream: Adds extra creaminess and a subtle tanginess to balance the rich salmon.

• Lemon Juice: Citrusy element that brightens the flavors and adds a fresh, zesty note.
• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the dip.

• Crackers, Crudites: Crisp accompaniments that provide a perfect vehicle for enjoying the smooth, flavorful dip.

Stirring Up Ina’s Rich, Creamy Dip

Step 1: Whip Cream Cheese Smooth

Place cream cheese in an electric mixer with paddle attachment. Beat until silky and free of lumps, creating a velvety base for your dip.

Step 2: Mix Zesty Flavor Boosters

• Fresh dill
• Horseradish
• Sour cream
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.

Step 3: Fold In Smoky Salmon

Gently incorporate chunks of smoked salmon into the creamy mixture. Stir carefully to maintain salmon’s delicate texture.

Step 4: Chill And Serve

Refrigerate dip for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled alongside crisp crackers or colorful vegetable crudités for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The cool, tangy dip pairs perfectly with crunchy accompaniments, making it ideal for gatherings or casual snacking.

Pro Tip: For best results, use high-quality smoked salmon and let the dip rest in the refrigerator to enhance its rich, complex flavors.

Tips for a Dip That Delivers Every Time

• Soften Cream Cheese Perfectly: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to achieve a silky, lump-free texture that blends effortlessly.
• Balance Horseradish Heat: Start with a small amount of horseradish and taste as you go, allowing you to control the spiciness and customize the dip to your preference.
• Chop Salmon Like a Pro: Use a sharp knife to finely mince smoked salmon into tiny, uniform pieces that will distribute evenly and ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• Make Ahead with Ease: Prepare the dip up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container, letting the flavors meld and intensify in the refrigerator.
• Serve with Style: Pair this creamy dip with crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable crudités for a stunning appetizer that'll impress your guests.

Storing Salmon Dip the Smart Way

• Vacuum Seal Method: Lock in freshness by transferring the dip into vacuum-sealed bags. Remove all air to prevent oxidation and maintain the original flavor profile, extending storage life significantly.
• Mason Jar Preservation: Transfer the dip into clean glass mason jars with tight-fitting lids. Layer a thin plastic wrap directly on the dip's surface before sealing to minimize air exposure and prevent freezer burn.
• Portion Control Technique: Divide the dip into small individual serving containers before refrigerating or freezing. This strategy allows you to thaw exactly what you need, reducing waste and maintaining optimal texture when reheating.

Flavor Twists to Try with Ina’s Dip

• Spicy Salmon Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha sauce for a fiery flavor that elevates the classic dip.
• Mediterranean Herb Blend: Incorporate chopped fresh basil, oregano, and a sprinkle of za'atar seasoning to give the dip a Greek-inspired profile.
• Smoky Chipotle Salmon Spread: Mix in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a rich, smoky undertone that complements the salmon's delicate flavor.
• Citrus Zest Fusion: Enhance the brightness by adding orange zest and a touch of fresh chives, creating a more vibrant and refreshing dip.

Wrapping Up the Dip Experience

Garten’s smoked salmon dip emerges as pure culinary magic, blending creamy textures with briny ocean essence.

Sophisticated palates will discover complex flavor profiles dancing across taste buds.

Cream cheese provides luxurious foundation while dill and horseradish spark unexpected excitement.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients create seamless harmony in each delightful bite.

Salmon’s delicate smokiness transforms simple appetizers into memorable social moments.

Effortless preparation meets gourmet satisfaction – dive into this irresistible recipe that promises to dazzle guests, spark conversation, and earn endless compliments from everyone gathering around your table.

Spread, share, savor, and watch delighted reactions unfold!

Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s smoked salmon dip brings coastal elegance to your appetizer spread with creamy Philadelphia cream cheese and luxurious smoked salmon. Silky smooth and rich with dill and lemon, this gourmet starter promises to elevate any gathering with its sophisticated Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, at room temperature
• ¼ pound (4 ounces or 113 grams) smoked salmon, minced
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) sour cream

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) minced fresh dill
• ½ teaspoon (2.5 grams) kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25 grams) freshly ground black pepper

Condiments:

• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) prepared horseradish, drained

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Instructions

1. Utilize an electric mixer with a paddle attachment to transform the cream cheese into a silky, uniform texture, ensuring no lumps remain.
2. Incorporate freshly chopped dill, zesty horseradish, tangy sour cream, bright lemon juice, and a precise balance of salt and pepper into the cream cheese mixture, stirring until thoroughly integrated.
3. Gently fold in delicate pieces of smoked salmon, distributing them evenly throughout the creamy spread, taking care not to break the fish into tiny fragments.
4. Refrigerate the salmon spread for approximately 30 minutes (15-45 centimeters/6-18 inches deep in the chiller) to allow flavors to meld and develop a more cohesive taste profile.
5. Before serving, let the spread rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly, enhancing its spreadability.
6. Present the salmon spread alongside crisp artisan crackers, fresh vegetable crudités, or thinly sliced toasted baguette rounds to complement its rich, complex flavors.

Notes

• Chill the dip for at least an hour to let flavors meld and intensify.
• Garnish with fresh dill or chives right before serving for a pop of color and extra freshness.
• Use high-quality cream cheese and smoked salmon for the most vibrant taste experience.
• Leftovers stay delicious when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Serve with crispy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for perfect dipping.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 150 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg