Pin it
This creamy smoked salmon spread makes the perfect quick yet fancy appetizer. Its smooth texture and gentle flavor will wow your guests without keeping you stuck in the kitchen forever.
I first tried this at a dinner party with French friends and now I make it for all my get-togethers. Even my pickiest guests always ask me how to make it.
Ingredients
- 200 g smoked salmon: go for high-quality stuff for the best flavor
- 75 g cream cheese: Philadelphia or similar gives that smooth, rich texture
- 1 small shallot: adds a slight kick that brings out the salmon's taste
- 5 sprigs fresh chives: for a mild, green touch
- 2 sprigs fresh dill or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill: a must-have with salmon
- 1/2 teaspoon pink peppercorns: for their slightly fruity, peppery scent
- Freshly ground black pepper: way more flavorful than pre-ground stuff
- Fresh lemon juice: brightens everything and cuts through the rich salmon
- A few yuzu pearls: optional, just adds fanciness and a citrus pop
Step-By-Step Guide
- Get your flavorings ready:
- Toss herbs, pink peppercorns and shallot into your food processor and blitz until fine. These little flavor bombs will make your spread truly special, so don't rush this part.
- Add the salmon:
- Throw in chunks of smoked salmon and pulse briefly to keep some texture. Don't overdo it or you'll end up with baby food instead of spread.
- Mix in the creamy stuff:
- Drop in the cream cheese, pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice, then give it a few more pulses. You want a smooth mix that still has some character to it, like traditional spreads.
- Chill it:
- Scoop everything into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge until serving time. It actually tastes better if you make it a few hours ahead.
- Serve with style:
- Toast up some good bread, spread a thick layer on top, and finish with a few yuzu pearls for that fancy restaurant look.
I always keep some of this spread in my fridge during the holiday season. Its subtle flavor reminds me of Christmas dinners when I was little, when Grandma would bring out her homemade pâtés.
Pin it
Perfect Storage
Keep your spread in an airtight container in the fridge. Try to eat it within 2 days for the freshest taste. If you need to make it further ahead, just add extra lemon juice which works as a natural preservative and boosts the flavor too.
Tasty Twists
You can easily switch up this basic version to match what you like. Try adding a bit of wasabi for a Japanese feel or some capers for a Mediterranean twist. You could also swap half the smoked salmon for steamed fresh salmon to make it lighter, or use mascarpone instead of cream cheese for an extra rich treat.
Serving Suggestions
This spread goes really well with dry white wines like Chablis or Sancerre. Put it out at the start of your meal with different things to spread it on. Along with toast, try cucumber slices, sesame crackers, or endive leaves for extra crunch and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I store salmon spread?
Keep the spread in a sealed container in the fridge, and enjoy it within two days for the best flavor.
- → Can I use something other than cream cheese?
Absolutely! Swap it with mascarpone or plain yogurt if you prefer.
- → What’s the best kind of salmon to use?
Smoked salmon is ideal for a rich and bold taste.
- → What’s the best way to serve salmon spread?
Spread it over toasted bread slices and add a bit of yuzu pearls for a fun twist.
- → Can this salmon spread be frozen?
Freezing isn’t recommended since the creamy texture could change once thawed.