Description
This Smoked Salmon Bagel Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or a casual snack. Featuring a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, combined with smoky salmon, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon juice, it offers a delightful balance of richness and brightness. Serve chilled with bagel wedges for a classic duo everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 8 oz smoked salmon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Bagels, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: Begin by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or spatula to beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Dairy Ingredients: Add the sour cream and mayonnaise to the bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture remains smooth.
- Add Lemon Juice: Pour in the fresh lemon juice. This will add brightness to the dip and help balance the flavors. Stir until incorporated.
- Incorporate Smoked Salmon and Herbs: Gently fold in the chopped smoked salmon, capers, dill, and chives using a spatula. Make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the dip without over-mixing.
- Season the Dip: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste, mixing lightly until just combined.
- Chill or Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and smooth the top with a spatula. You can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors or serve it immediately.
- Serve with Bagels: Serve the smoked salmon bagel dip with bagel wedges or your choice of crackers for dipping.
Notes
- Chilling the dip for 30 minutes before serving improves flavor melding.
- Use fresh herbs where possible for a brighter taste.
- Adjust garlic and onion powder to your preference.
- This dip can also be served with crackers, vegetables, or rye bread slices.
- Keep the dip refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
