Wild Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

This elegant dip combines flaked wild salmon with rich cream cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of smoke flavor. Serve it warm from the oven with crackers and fresh vegetables, or chilled for a lighter option. Either way, it disappears faster than you can refill the platter. Packed with omega-3s and sophisticated enough for a dinner party, simple enough for game day.

Ingredients

• 12 oz wild Alaskan salmon, cooked and flaked
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp horseradish sauce (optional, for depth)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced very finely
• 1/4 cup grated Gruyère or sharp cheddar (optional)
• Sea salt and white pepper to taste
• Lemon zest for garnish
• Crackers and fresh vegetables for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare salmon: If using raw salmon, heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-sear salmon skin-side up for 4 minutes, flip and cook until opaque (145°F internal temp, about 3-4 minutes). Cool and flake into bite-sized pieces, removing any bones.
2. Combine base: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold in sour cream and mayonnaise until well combined and creamy.
3. Mix in salmon: Gently fold the flaked salmon into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to overmix. Leave some visible salmon chunks for texture.
4. Add seasonings: Stir in dill, chives, lemon juice, horseradish, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Season to taste with salt and white pepper. White pepper won't create dark specks like black pepper.
5. Add cheese (optional): If using cheese for a baked version, fold in grated Gruyère or sharp cheddar.
6. Serve warm: Transfer to a baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through and lightly golden on top. Or serve immediately at room temperature.
7. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh lemon zest, additional fresh dill, and chives. Serve with crackers and fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, celery, and cherry tomatoes.