Ina Garten’s Smoked Salmon Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that combines the rich taste of smoked salmon with the freshness of dill and lemon. This easy-to-make dip is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a snack. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious smoked salmon dip that will leave your guests asking for more.
What is Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip?
Ina Garten’s Smoked Salmon Dip is a smooth and savory dip made with smoked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs. The dip is creamy yet light, with the smoky flavor of the salmon complemented by the tang of lemon and the freshness of dill. It’s an elegant appetizer that pairs well with crackers, bagels, or fresh vegetables.

Other Ina Garten Dip Recipes
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a luscious base.
- Smoky Flavor: The smoked salmon adds a deep, savory taste that is hard to resist.
- Quick and Easy: This dip comes together in just a few minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a party snack.
- Impressive Presentation: Its vibrant color and rich flavor make it a standout dish at any event.
Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip
Let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
Instructions to Make Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip
Follow these simple steps to make this recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
- Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. This step ensures that your dip has a silky texture.
Step 2: Add the Flavors
- Add the sour cream, lemon juice, minced dill, prepared horseradish, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl. Continue to beat the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined. The lemon juice and dill add a fresh, tangy note, while the horseradish gives the dip a subtle kick.
Step 3: Incorporate the Smoked Salmon
- Gently fold the chopped smoked salmon into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Make sure the salmon is evenly distributed throughout the dip. The smoked salmon should be chopped into small pieces to ensure you get a bit of salmon in every bite.
Step 4: Chill the Dip
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Chilling the dip allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Before serving, give the dip a quick stir. Garnish with a sprig of dill or a slice of lemon for a decorative touch. Serve with your choice of crackers, bagel chips, or vegetable sticks. This smoked salmon dip pairs well with a variety of dippers, making it versatile for any occasion.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip
- Crackers: Sturdy crackers like water crackers or rye crisps are perfect for this dip.
- Bagels: Serve with sliced bagels for a classic pairing.
- Vegetable Sticks: Fresh cucumber slices, celery sticks, and bell peppers add a refreshing crunch.
- Pita Chips: Crispy pita chips offer a different texture that complements the creamy dip.
- Capers: Sprinkle capers on top for a briny contrast that enhances the smoky salmon.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip
- Use Quality Salmon: Opt for high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the dip chill for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to fully develop.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, herbs, or horseradish to suit your taste preferences.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest adds a beautiful finishing touch.
- Serve Cold: Keep the dip chilled until ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Variations of Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or tarragon.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Caper Addition: Mix in chopped capers for an extra briny flavor.
- Avocado: Blend in some mashed avocado for a creamier, richer dip.
- Yogurt Base: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier, lighter version.
- Lox Style: Use lox instead of traditional smoked salmon for a milder flavor.
Storing Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip: Best Practices
- Airtight Container: Store the dip in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Refrigeration: Keep the dip refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days.
- No Freezing: Freezing can affect the texture of the dip, so it’s best to avoid it.
- Label and Date: Always label the container with the date it was made.
- Stir Before Serving: If stored, stir the dip well before serving to ensure a smooth texture.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use clean utensils when serving to keep the dip fresh.
Reheating Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip: Best Practices
- No Reheating Needed: This dip is best served chilled, so reheating is unnecessary.
- Bring to Room Temperature: If the dip becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- Stir Before Serving: Give the dip a quick stir to ensure even texture and flavor.
- Garnish Freshly: Add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice to refresh the dip before serving.
- Serve Cold: Keep the dip on ice if serving for extended periods to maintain its creamy consistency.
How can I make Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip healthier?
To make Ina Garten’s Smoked Salmon Dip healthier, you can make a few simple substitutions:
- Use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese and sour cream: This reduces the overall calorie and fat content while maintaining the creamy texture of the dip.
- Add Greek yogurt: Replace some or all of the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt to increase the protein content and add a slightly tangy flavor.
- Increase the vegetables: Add finely chopped vegetables like red bell peppers, cucumbers, or scallions to the dip. This boosts the nutritional value and adds a crunchy texture.
- Serve with healthier dippers: Opt for whole-grain crackers, sliced cucumbers, carrot sticks, or other fresh vegetables instead of traditional chips or white bread. This adds fiber and nutrients to your appetizer spread.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g
FAQs
How do I soften cream cheese quickly for Ina Garten’s Smoked Salmon Dip?
To soften cream cheese quickly, cut it into small cubes and spread them out on a plate. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave the cubes for 10-15 seconds, checking to ensure they don’t melt.
Can I use hot smoked salmon instead of cold smoked salmon?
Yes, you can use hot smoked salmon if you prefer a stronger, smokier flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different, as hot smoked salmon is firmer and flakier compared to the silky texture of cold smoked salmon.
How long does it take to make Ina Garten’s Smoked Salmon Dip?
Ina Garten’s Smoked Salmon Dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. However, it’s best to refrigerate the dip for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Can I make smoked salmon dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can make smoked salmon dip ahead of time. It can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors develop even more with time, making it an ideal make-ahead appetizer.
Final Words
Ina Garten’s Smoked Salmon Dip is a sophisticated yet straightforward appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. With its creamy texture and rich, savory flavor, this dip is perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to more formal events. Follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a delicious dip ready to serve in no time. Happy cooking!
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Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip
- Prep Time: 10
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ina Garten’s Smoked Salmon Dip is a smooth and savory dip made with smoked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs. The dip is creamy yet light, with the smoky flavor of the salmon complemented by the tang of lemon and the freshness of dill. It’s an elegant appetizer that pairs well with crackers, bagels, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. This step ensures that your dip has a silky texture.
Step 2: Add the Flavors
Add the sour cream, lemon juice, minced dill, prepared horseradish, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl. Continue to beat the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined. The lemon juice and dill add a fresh, tangy note, while the horseradish gives the dip a subtle kick.
Step 3: Incorporate the Smoked Salmon
Gently fold the chopped smoked salmon into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Make sure the salmon is evenly distributed throughout the dip. The smoked salmon should be chopped into small pieces to ensure you get a bit of salmon in every bite.
Step 4: Chill the Dip
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Chilling the dip allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, give the dip a quick stir. Garnish with a sprig of dill or a slice of lemon for a decorative touch. Serve with your choice of crackers, bagel chips, or vegetable sticks. This smoked salmon dip pairs well with a variety of dippers, making it versatile for any occasion.