Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked Salmon Dip

I don’t know what it is about winter and salmon but it seems like every cold season I start to crave that flavor of fresh Alaskan Sockeye in parchment with dill and butter or those great smoked Norwegian salmon pieces on toast, with dill, of course. But this winter, I decided to try testing a dip to make for some upcoming parties.  I just happen to be watching endless episodes of Barefoot Contessa when I saw Ina Garten making a smoked salmon dip that looked delicious, although I had few tweaks in mind when trying it on my own. I had never really watched Ina cook on her show before, but now I know why everyone loves her!

You only need a few ingredients to make the dip- and you may already have them on hand. Be sure to use fresh dill rather than dried- it makes a huge difference. 

You’ll need sour cream, cream cheese, salt, black pepper, smoked salmon and cucumber. I also would add a bit of heavy whipping cream or half and half- just about 1-2 tablespoons- if you want the dip to be slightly thinner.

I just happen to spot these:

Saffron Road Baked Lentil Chips at Whole Foods Killdeer, IL

However, since writing this post, an update is that the chips are no longer available, so I suggest using the Baked Lentil crackers instead, which are available at local Whole Foods Markets. I must say that I was really, really impressed. The flavor is great and since they’re baked, it’s a healthy option.

They can also hold up to a thick dip like this one, so they’re really nice scoops. I’d say that’s perfect for the upcoming Super Bowl parties many people are planning and who wants chips that crack and break- it’s annoying.

Salmon Dip on Saffron Road Baked Lentil Chip

Everything gets mixed up pretty easily. If you have one, use a stand mixer to combine the cream cheese and sour cream then gently fold in the salmon and dill and spices. Add the heavy cream and use a wire whisk to incorporate, if you’re adding this.  I like to add diced cucumber (without any seeds) for added crunch and texture, but it’s optional.

Smoked Salmon Dip | My Halal Kitchen

Whether you’re serving a crowd or just want to have a snack at home with family, this is definitely a crowd pleaser, even for people who think they wouldn’t like salmon…

[yumprint-recipe id=’89’]
Salmon Baked in Papillote with Dill & Thyme

Salmon Baked in Papillote with Dill & Thyme

Salmon is one of the easiest types of fish to make on a regular basis. It’s thick texture stays together nicely when cooking, so whether you’re frying, grilling or baking it, it tends to stay together really well.  This is great news for novice cooks or those who are a little intimidated to cook fish at all.  And winter is a great time to have salmon because it’s super high in Vitamin D.

Baked Salmon with Dill & Thyme | My Halal Kitchen

If you watch enough of the news or programs like the Dr. Oz Show, you’ve probably already seen recent reports that so many people are low in the ever important Vitamin D that protects our bodies and our immune systems from all types of diseases.  (more…)