Bookmark
This creamy smoked salmon bagel dip brings together the rich flavors of classic bagels and lox in a smooth, savory spread. It’s perfect for serving at casual get togethers or festive occasions when you want something flavorful but effortless.
I first made this dip for a friend’s party and was amazed by how quickly it disappeared. It’s now a staple whenever I want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: provides the creamy base, choose a full fat variety for the best texture and taste
- Smoked salmon: opt for high quality cold smoked salmon for rich flavor and delicate texture
- Red onion: adds a mild sharpness, finely chopping ensures it blends without overpowering
- Capers: bring a briny burst that balances the creaminess, rinse well to mellow the saltiness
- Lemon zest: offers fresh citrus notes that brighten the dip
- Fresh herbs such as dill, chives or parsley: add a fragrant green freshness, use fresh not dried
- Everything bagel seasoning: contributes the familiar savory crunch and seasoning reminiscent of a classic bagel crust
- Bagel crisps: perfect for serving, look for thin crunchy varieties that won’t overpower the dip
Instructions
- Savor the Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and chopped smoked salmon. Stir gently until the mixture is creamy and uniformly blended. This creamy foundation defines the dip’s rich texture.
- Add the Brighteners:
- Incorporate the finely chopped red onion, rinsed and chopped capers, lemon zest, and freshly chopped herbs into the bowl. Mix thoroughly so every bite carries a harmony of savory, tangy, and fresh notes.
- Season to Perfection:
- Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning over the mixture and blend until everything is evenly distributed. The seasoning mimics the crunchy bagel crust you expect in this dip.
- Chill and Meld:
- Transfer the dip to a serving dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps all flavors to marry beautifully and intensify.
- Serve with Style:
- Bring the dip out of the fridge and serve it alongside bagel crisps. Use the crisps as scoops to enjoy the creamy, smoky, and zesty flavors in each bite.
I love the contrast between the smoky salmon and lemon zest in this dip. It reminds me of family brunches where this dip was a highlight on the table, bringing everyone together with its bold yet accessible flavors.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The dip may firm up slightly but will return to a creamy texture once brought to room temperature. Avoid freezing as the texture can change.
Ingredient Substitutions
Cream cheese can be replaced with a lighter fromage blanc or Greek yogurt based cheese for a tangier and lower fat version. Smoked trout or smoked mackerel can be used instead of salmon for different smoky notes. If you don’t have everything bagel seasoning, a mix of toasted sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, and garlic powder works well.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs wonderfully with toasted bagel slices, rye crisps, or even cucumber rounds for a fresher bite. It also makes a great sandwich spread layered with fresh greens and tomatoes.
Serve chilled with bagel crisps for a quick crowd pleaser. It elevates any brunch or party spread.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Comment conserver ce dip ?
Conservez le dip au réfrigérateur dans un récipient hermétique jusqu'à 2 jours pour préserver fraîcheur et saveurs.
- → Quelles herbes utiliser pour ce dip ?
Les herbes fraîches comme l’aneth, la ciboulette ou le persil relèvent délicatement les saveurs du saumon fumé.
- → Peut-on préparer ce dip à l'avance ?
Oui, préparer le dip quelques heures avant permet aux saveurs de se marier parfaitement.
- → Avec quoi servir ce dip ?
Idéal avec des croustillants type bagel chips ou des légumes croquants pour un contraste de textures.
- → Peut-on ajuster l'assaisonnement ?
Absolument, ajustez le zeste de citron et le mélange d'épices selon vos préférences pour plus de caractère.