This Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Spread is a creamy and savory appetizer recipe, which includes smoked salmon and cream cheese. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 10 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Smoked Salmon Spread Ingredients
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, roughly chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained and rinsed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: additional dill or lemon zest

How To Make Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Spread
- Blend the base: In a food processor, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- Add salmon and capers: Add the smoked salmon, capers, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times until the salmon is finely chopped but still has some texture.
- Fold in herbs: Transfer mixture to a bowl and gently fold in dill and chives.
- Taste and adjust: Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve and garnish: Spoon into a serving dish and garnish with dill or lemon zest. Serve with crackers, bagels, or veggie sticks.

Recipe Tips
-
What type of salmon works best?
Cold-smoked salmon (like lox) is traditional, but hot-smoked salmon adds a richer flavor. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Let soften slightly before serving. -
How to make it lighter:
Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream or use reduced-fat cream cheese. -
What to serve with salmon spread:
Bagels, crackers, cucumber slices, or toasted baguette all pair perfectly.
What To Serve Smoked Salmon Spread
This versatile smoked salmon spread is delicious served with a variety of accompaniments. It pairs wonderfully with classic options like toasted bagel chips, pumpernickel bread squares, and assorted crackers. For a healthier, low-carb choice, serve it with fresh vegetable crudités such as cucumber slices, celery sticks, and mini bell pepper halves. It’s also fantastic as a filling for mini phyllo cups for an elegant party appetizer.

How To Store Smoked Salmon Spread
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Not recommended — the texture will separate.
Smoked Salmon Spread Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 470mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon instead of smoked?
You can, but it won’t have the same smoky flavor.
Can I make this spread chunkier?
Yes, simply stir the smoked salmon in by hand instead of pulsing in a food processor.
What’s the difference between lox and smoked salmon?
Lox is cured but not smoked, while smoked salmon is both cured and smoked — either works for this spread.
Can I serve this warm?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature for easy spreading.
Try More Recipes:
Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Spread Recipe
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes190
kcalA creamy and flavorful smoked salmon dip made with cream cheese, herbs, and lemon — the perfect party appetizer.
Ingredients
-
4 oz smoked salmon, chopped
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
2 tbsp sour cream
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
2 tbsp dill, chopped
-
1 tbsp chives, chopped
-
1 tbsp capers, drained
-
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions
- Blend cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Add smoked salmon, capers, salt, and pepper. Pulse to combine.
- Fold in dill and chives.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with dill or lemon zest and serve with crackers or bagels.
