Smoked salmon is never out of season. It makes a scrumptious smoky-sweet appetizer or even a perfect gift to a truly deserving friend or family member. Follow the instructions below to make this incredible Smoked Salmon Spread and then just put it in an attractive container. Slap on a self-descriptive label with some fancy crackers and a nice ribbon and your Christmas shopping is done! Or you could just grab some crackers (or a spoon) and sit back and enjoy the tasty fruits of your labors.
SMOKED SALMON SPREAD
PREP TIME: 10 min plus 3 to 6 hours to cure the salmon
COOK TIME: 90 mins (for smoking the salmon)
RECOMMENDED PELLETS: Alder, Apple, Cherry, Hickory, Maple or Pecan
SERVES: 8 to 10
INGREDIENTS
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh dill
1 1/2 teaspoons prepared horseradish, drained
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
6 ounces smoked salmon
PREPARATION
Start this the day before and smoke the salmon using our sure-fire Smoked Salmon recipe.
Cream the cheese in an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment until just smooth.
Add the sour cream, lemon juice, dill, horseradish, salt, and pepper, and mix.
If you want chunks of salmon in the spread, just flake the salmon into the spread and gently fold it in. If you like smaller chunks, just break it up into smaller pieces and thoroughly mix it in.
Chill and serve with crudites or your favorite crackers or small pieces of toasted bread.
