The Best Smoked Salmon Dip For Holiday Parties | Dish on Fish

Well, hey there, Seafoodies!

If you’ve been tapped to bring the dip or appetizer to any upcoming holiday gathering, you’re in for an easy win. We’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t love a good dip. But our smoked salmon version? It converts even the most skeptical dippers into full-blown dunking enthusiasts! This irresistible smoked salmon dip is our go-to whenever it’s time to get together because it checks two major boxes: it’s really good, and it’s ready before you can even set out the crackers.

With some store-bought smoked salmon, a handful of kitchen staples and a trusty food processor, you’ll be ready to get the party started before you know it. What really seals the deal? You can make it hours (or even a day) ahead, freeing you up to tackle everything else on your to-do list (and if you are anything like us, that to-do list is LONG!)

Grabbing smoked salmon from the grocery store couldn’t be easier, and chances are you already have the other ingredients waiting in your fridge and pantry. Simply toss the salmon, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, fresh herbs, the seasoning and a pinch of heat into the food processor—and that’s it! We have been known to whip this dip up when friends drop by unexpectedly, the day before that office potluck (to let those flavors develop and mingle) or honestly anytime we want a snack.

In addition to being wonderfully smooth and downright delicious, this dip packs in impressive health benefits. Smoked salmon delivers high-quality protein, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients like vitamin B-12, vitamin D and selenium. Unlike heavy cream-based dips, we like to keep things lighter by using Greek yogurt as the base, which adds extra protein and probiotics to the mix. It’s the kind of appetizer where you can feel good about anyone going back for seconds (and thirds!).

Smoked salmon keeps for up to three weeks in the refrigerator when unopened, which is why we always keep some stashed for entertaining emergencies. And if you somehow end up with leftovers—though we doubt you will— a dollop of dip makes for a fantastic addition to your morning bagel, omelet or avocado toast.

Fair warning: once you serve this dip, you’ll be expected to bring it to every gathering from here on out. Consider yourself forever crowned as “the person who makes that amazing salmon dip!”

In a food processor, process cream cheese until light and creamy.
Add yogurt (or sour cream) and next 5 ingredients (through chives); process until combined.
Add smoked salmon and pulse lightly until desired consistency. Serve with whole grain crackers or vegetable crudités.