Best Salmon Spread
A creamy, smoky salmon spread with bright lemon and horseradish, topped with crunchy pecans and fresh herbs—perfect for party appetizers and elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix salmon, cream cheese, lemon juice, grated onion, white horseradish, salt, and liquid smoke until well combined.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for several hours to allow flavors to meld.
- In a bowl, combine chopped pecans and chopped parsley.
- Shape the chilled salmon mixture into a fish shape on wax paper.
- Roll the shaped salmon in the nut and parsley mixture until fully coated.
- Garnish each piece with a green olive for the eye and celery leaves for the fins.
- Serve chilled with cocktail rye or your favorite crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier spread, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have liquid smoke, try adding a bit of smoked paprika for a similar flavor. You can also substitute chopped walnuts for pecans if preferred. This spread can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, much like the Creamy-Nutty Tuna Sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful salmon spread with cocktail rye, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for a light appetizer. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or on a bagel. Consider adding it to a seafood platter or as a spread for sandwiches alongside other favorites from seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The spread will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, if desired, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften it up again. However, it is best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Salmon Spread contains roughly 140 calories, with 10g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (91% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 656mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked and flaked fresh salmon instead of canned. Make sure to season it well, as canned salmon is already flavored. Just ensure it is properly cooked and cooled before mixing it into the spread.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this salmon spread gluten-free, serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks. Ensure that the brand of cream cheese you choose is certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the spread without any gluten concerns.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Each will provide a different flavor and texture, so choose according to your preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).