Appetizer: United States – Maine (New England) – Maine Smoked Salmon Dip

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 0 min

Additional 30 min

Total 45 min

Ingredients

- 8 oz (225 g) smoked Atlantic salmon, flaked and bones removed
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp (5 ml) lemon zest
- 2 tbsp (8 g) fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp (6 g) fresh chives, minced
- 2 tbsp (30 g) red onion, minced (about 2 tbsp)
- 2 tbsp (30 g) capers, drained and chopped (optional)
- 1/4 tsp (1.5 g) kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp (0.5 g) hot sauce (optional)
- 1 baguette, sliced and toasted, or assorted crackers and vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

Short Description:
A creamy, dill-forward dip featuring locally smoked Atlantic salmon blended with softened cream cheese and bright lemon for a quintessential Maine seafood starter. Serve chilled with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or crisp vegetables for sharing.

Regional Notes:
This version highlights locally smoked Atlantic salmon from Maine and relies on cream cheese and fresh dill—common New England accompaniments—to create a silky, tangy dip. Compared with generic smoked-salmon spreads, the Maine variation emphasizes flaky smoked Atlantic salmon and a slightly higher cream-cheese base to reflect regional texture and flavor preferences.

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a whisk or electric mixer on low.
2. Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and lemon zest; mix until combined and creamy.
3. Fold in the chopped dill, chives, minced red onion, and capers (if using) until evenly distributed.
4. Gently fold in the flaked smoked salmon, leaving some larger flakes for texture; stir just until incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce if using, tasting and adjusting seasoning.
5. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and chill for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to allow flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, garnish with a few reserved salmon flakes and a sprig of dill. Serve chilled with toasted baguette slices, crackers, cucumber rounds, or celery sticks.