Ellen'S Smoked Salmon Spread
Ellen's Smoked Salmon Spread offers a creamy, flavorful blend of smoked salmon, cottage cheese, and zesty seasonings, perfect for elegant appetizers or brunch spreads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut half of the smoked salmon into chunks.
- Dice the remaining smoked salmon.
- Place cottage cheese in a fine-mesh sieve and press to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer cottage cheese to a food processor.
- Add the salmon chunks, pepper-flavored vodka, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and horseradish to the processor.
- Process until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in the diced salmon.
- Refrigerate until chilled.
- May be prepared ahead and stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped capers or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. If you don't have pepper-flavored vodka, regular vodka with extra black pepper can work as a substitute. For a creamier texture, blend in a bit of cream cheese. Make sure to thoroughly drain the cottage cheese to avoid a watery spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this smoked salmon spread with an assortment of crackers, toasted bagels, or sliced cucumber for a refreshing bite. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or as part of a seafood platter. For a delightful appetizer, consider serving it alongside the New England Clam Boil for a varied spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the flavor and texture, avoid freezing this spread, as it may separate upon thawing. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ellen'S Smoked Salmon Spread contains roughly 34 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% 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 smoked salmon?
While fresh salmon can be used, it will change the flavor profile of the dish significantly. Smoked salmon provides a rich, savory taste that is essential to this spread. If you prefer fresh salmon, consider lightly smoking or poaching it first for a similar effect.
How long will this spread stay fresh in the fridge?
This smoked salmon spread will stay fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Beyond that, the flavors may begin to degrade, and the texture could change. Always check for any off smells or colors before consuming.
Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
Yes, this spread can be made up to 2 days in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. Simply prepare the mixture, store it covered in the refrigerator, and serve it chilled. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
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).