Smoked Salmon Spread (mikeb@bunny.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu)
This Smoked Salmon Spread is the ultimate way to elevate simple bagel bites or crudité platters. By whipping softened cream cheese with heavy cream, you achieve an impossibly light and airy texture that melts in your mouth. The rich, smoky depth of minced salmon trimmings is brightened perfectly by fresh lemon juice and a sharp kick of cayenne pepper. It’s a vibrant, savory-sweet profile that feels indulgent yet effortless to assemble. Perfect for holiday parties, casual brunches, or a quick appetizer when guests drop by unannounced, this spread proves that using every bit of your ingredients can lead to gourmet results. Serve it alongside crisp cucumber slices, warm pita chips, or classic toasted bagels for a balanced bite.
Description
This Smoked Salmon Spread is the ultimate way to elevate simple bagel bites or crudité platters. By whipping softened cream cheese with heavy cream, you achieve an impossibly light and airy texture that melts in your mouth. The rich, smoky depth of minced salmon trimmings is brightened perfectly by fresh lemon juice and a sharp kick of cayenne pepper. It’s a vibrant, savory-sweet profile that feels indulgent yet effortless to assemble. Perfect for holiday parties, casual brunches, or a quick appetizer when guests drop by unannounced, this spread proves that using every bit of your ingredients can lead to gourmet results. Serve it alongside crisp cucumber slices, warm pita chips, or classic toasted bagels for a balanced bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 Tbs heavy cream
- 5 oz smoked salmon trimmings, minced
- 1 Tbs minced fresh chives or green onions
- Fresh lemon juice
- ground cayenne pepper
- ground black pepper
Directions
- 1 Place the softened cream cheese and heavy cream into a mixing bowl.
- 2
Using an electric mixer or a wire whisk, beat the mixture until it is light, fluffy, and smooth.- 3
Stir in the minced smoked salmon trimmings and chopped chives until evenly distributed.- 4
Add fresh lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to taste, mixing gently to incorporate.- 5
Transfer to a serving dish and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.NoteStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
If you don't have salmon trimmings, you can use finely chopped leftover smoked salmon fillets.
For a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
Try adding a teaspoon of capers for a salty, briny kick.
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