Creamy Smoked Fish Delight
This Creamy Smoked Fish Delight is a delectable spread that blends the rich, smoky flavors of fish with creamy whipped cream cheese and zesty green onions. Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or a casual snack, this spread is sure to impress your guests. It pairs beautifully with an array of dippers like bread chips, crackers, or flatbread. Easy to prepare and even better after chilling, it’s a must-try for any seafood lover.
10
Servings
32
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
smoked fish
4 ounces (skin and bones removed, flaked)
whipped cream cheese
1 (8 ounce) container (softened)
lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
green onions
6 (chopped, with green tops minced and white parts finely sliced)
Mrs. Dash seasoning mix
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Begin by carefully removing the skin and bones from the smoked fish. Flake the fish into small pieces using a fork.
2
Take the green onions and separate the green tops from the white bulbs. Finely mince the white parts and chop the green tops.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked smoked fish, minced white parts of the green onions, chopped green tops, whipped cream cheese, lemon juice, and Mrs. Dash seasoning.
4
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly with a spatula or fork until the spread is well blended and creamy.
5
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, let it chill overnight.
6
When ready to serve, give the spread a gentle stir and transfer it to a serving dish. Accompany with an assortment of dippers such as bread chips, crackers, or flatbread.
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
1g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Smoked Fish Delight?
Creamy Smoked Fish Delight is a delectable seafood spread that combines rich, smoky fish with whipped cream cheese, zesty green onions, and lemon juice.
What kind of fish should I use for this spread?
Any high-quality smoked fish will work. Popular choices include smoked trout, salmon, or whitefish, depending on your flavor preference.
How do I prepare the fish for the recipe?
Carefully remove the skin and bones from the smoked fish, then flake it into small pieces using a fork before mixing.
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of whipped?
Yes, but you may want to beat it with a hand mixer first to achieve the light, airy texture that whipped cream cheese provides.
What are the nutritional highlights of this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 32 calories, 2g of fat, 2g of protein, and only 1g of carbohydrates.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 10 servings, making it ideal for small gatherings or parties.
What should I serve with this smoked fish spread?
It pairs beautifully with bread chips, crackers, flatbread, or fresh vegetable crudites.
How long does it take to prepare?
The hands-on preparation is quick, but it requires at least 1 hour of chilling time in the refrigerator.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely. It is recommended to let it chill for at least an hour, but letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld even better.
What is Mrs. Dash seasoning?
Mrs. Dash is a salt-free seasoning blend used in this recipe to add flavor without increasing the sodium content.
Do I use the whole green onion?
Yes, you use both the white bulbs (finely minced) and the green tops (chopped) for different textures and flavor depths.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The spread itself is gluten-free, provided your smoked fish and seasoning are certified gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free crackers to keep the snack safe.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any remaining spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this smoked fish spread?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese can become grainy or watery upon thawing.
Is fresh lemon juice necessary?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the best zesty flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I use a food processor?
While you can, mixing by hand with a spatula is recommended to maintain the texture of the flaked fish and green onions.
Is this recipe suitable for keto diets?
Yes, with only 1g of carbohydrates per serving, it is an excellent low-carb and keto-friendly appetizer.
How do I remove the bones from the fish?
Use your fingers or clean tweezers to feel for small pin bones as you flake the fish.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Spread and is perfect for appetizers or brunch.
Can I add extra herbs?
Yes, fresh dill or chives would complement the smoked fish and cream cheese perfectly.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
No, this recipe does not contain any added sugar.
What if I don't have Mrs. Dash seasoning?
You can substitute it with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, or any other salt-free herb blend.
Is this spread spicy?
No, it is creamy and savory. If you want heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice provides a similar acidity, though the flavor profile will shift slightly toward a more citrusy-tart note.
What makes the spread 'delight'?
The combination of the rich smoky fish balanced by the light, whipped texture of the cream cheese creates a delightful culinary experience.
How much fish is needed?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of smoked fish.
Can I double the recipe for a large party?
Yes, the recipe scales up easily. Simply double all ingredient amounts and use a larger mixing bowl.
What color should the spread be?
The spread will be primarily white or off-white with flecks of green from the onions and bits of the smoked fish.
Is this a heavy or light appetizer?
Because it uses whipped cream cheese and is low in calories, it feels relatively light compared to traditional dense dips.
Can I use smoked salmon lox?
Lox is quite salty and has a different texture; hot-smoked fish is usually better for flaking, but lox can be used if finely chopped.