Description
This creamy and flavorful Smoked Salmon Bagel Dip is a perfect appetizer or snack, combining the rich taste of smoked salmon with fresh herbs and a tangy base of cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice. Ready in just 40 minutes, it pairs wonderfully with bagel chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for a deliciously elegant treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Additional Ingredients
- 4 oz smoked salmon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve
- Bagel chips, crackers, or fresh veggies (such as cucumber slices or carrots)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and well combined to create a creamy base for the dip.
- Add the Salmon and Herbs: Gently fold in the chopped smoked salmon, capers, fresh dill, and chopped chives if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dip.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, chill for a few hours or overnight to deepen the flavor and enhance the freshness.
- Serve: Transfer the chilled dip to a serving bowl and garnish with additional fresh dill or chives. Serve alongside bagel chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables such as cucumber slices or carrots for dipping.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing.
- The dip can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Adjust the amount of chopped smoked salmon to your preference for a stronger or milder salmon flavor.
- The dip freezes well but may need stirring after thawing to restore the creamy texture.
- Optional fresh chives add a mild onion flavor but can be omitted if unavailable or unwanted.
