Smoked Salmon Cracker Spread
A creamy smoked salmon spread with lemon, onion, and horseradish, perfect for entertaining or brunch, offering a smoky, tangy, and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese at medium speed, scraping the bowl often, until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add salt, lemon juice, chopped onion, liquid smoke, and horseradish to the cream cheese and mix well.
- By hand, stir in the drained, flaked salmon.
- Spoon the mixture into a serving bowl and garnish with chopped pecans and parsley if desired.
- Serve with crackers. Store refrigerated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. If you're out of horseradish, a dash of Dijon mustard can add a similar zing. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending. This mixture can also be spiced up with a bit of hot sauce or fresh dill for an extra flavor boost. Pair it with crackers for a delightful appetizer, just like the Crab Meat Roll-Ups.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spread with a variety of crackers or toasted baguette slices. It also pairs well with fresh vegetables like cucumber or bell pepper strips for a crunchy contrast. For a complete spread, consider adding a side of pickles or olives. This delightful appetizer can also complement seafood recipes like the Clam Dip With Zip, creating a well-rounded tasting experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Smoked Salmon Cracker Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. This spread is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat it. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoked Salmon Cracker Spread contains roughly 404 calories, with 6g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use cooked and flaked fresh salmon instead of canned. Just ensure it’s properly cooked and seasoned. Fresh salmon can offer a more robust flavor, but the texture may differ slightly from canned salmon. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as fresh salmon may require a bit more salt.
How long can I keep the spread in the fridge?
The Smoked Salmon Cracker Spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its freshness, keep it in an airtight container. If the spread thickens after a day, you can mix in a little cream cheese or yogurt to restore its creamy texture before serving.
What crackers work best with this spread?
For this spread, choose crisp, mild-flavored crackers like water crackers, rice crackers, or even bagel chips. The neutral taste of these options allows the flavors of the smoked salmon and cream cheese mixture to shine. You can also try whole grain or herb-flavored crackers for added texture and 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).