Name: Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, at room temperature; 3 oz (85 g) smoked salmon, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Why You’ll Love Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Recipe

This recipe is incredibly simple yet packed with flavor — no cooking needed and just a handful of ingredients. It’s perfect for everything from quick breakfasts to fancy appetizer spreads. The balance between smoky salmon, tangy lemon, and fresh herbs makes every bite delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
¼ cup (2¼ oz / 64 g) smoked salmon, finely diced
1 tablespoon minced fresh dill
1 tablespoon finely diced red onion
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Whipped cream cheese

Directions

In a medium bowl, combine the finely diced smoked salmon, minced dill, red onion, and lemon juice.
Add the whipped cream cheese.
Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Serve right away or refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to use.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 1 cup of spread (perfect for 4–6 people as part of a brunch board or to serve with bagels).
Prep time: About 10 minutes.
Total time: About 12 minutes including mixing.

Variations

With capers: Add a teaspoon of capers for a salty, briny pop.
Herb twist: Substitute dill with chives or parsley for a milder herb flavor.
Spicy kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Extra lemony: Add a bit of lemon zest for an added citrus boost.
Chunkier texture: Fold in salmon pieces at the end for a more rustic spread.
Add garlic: A small clove of minced garlic adds depth of flavor.
Creamier version: Blend cream cheese with a touch of sour cream for a silkier consistency.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover smoked salmon cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best served chilled, and there’s no need to reheat since it’s a cold spread.

FAQs

How long does smoked salmon cream cheese last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, this spread will stay good for up to 5 days.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it a few hours before serving and keep it chilled until you’re ready to use it.

What should I serve it with?

It pairs well with bagels, crackers, crostini, or sliced vegetables for dipping.

Can I add capers?

Yes! A teaspoon of capers adds a nice briny flavor and complements the salmon.

Is this spread safe to eat as is?

Yes — smoked salmon is ready to eat, so there’s no additional cooking needed.

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of whipped?

You can, but whipped cream cheese makes it lighter and easier to mix.

Can I freeze this?

Freezing isn’t recommended because the texture of cream cheese can change when frozen and thawed.

What if I don’t like dill?

You can substitute finely chopped chives or parsley for a fresh, mild flavor.

Can I serve this at a party?

Absolutely — it’s a popular choice for brunches, holiday gatherings, or appetizer spreads.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

On its own, yes — just make sure any crackers or bagels you serve with it are gluten-free if needed.

Conclusion

This Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese is a quick, flavorful spread that elevates simple breakfasts and brunches. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it’s an easy way to add sophistication to your table. It’s versatile enough for everyday use or special occasions, and you can customize it with your favorite add-ins.