Craving a sophisticated yet effortless appetizer that will impress your guests? Look no further! This smoked whitefish dip recipe is your answer. It's the perfect blend of creamy, smoky, and tangy flavors, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, or a delightful treat for a quiet night in. This easy recipe requires minimal cooking time and simple ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Get ready to elevate your snack game!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces smoked whitefish, flaked
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (can substitute with more Greek Yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Crackers, vegetables, or baguette slices for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Whitefish: Gently flake the smoked whitefish. Discard any large bones. If using a whole fillet, ensure it's completely deboned before flaking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dill, red onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Gently Fold in Whitefish: Add the flaked smoked whitefish to the cream cheese mixture and gently fold it in. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain the texture of the fish.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste. Serve chilled with crackers, vegetable sticks (like celery and carrots), or baguette slices.
Tips for the Best Smoked Whitefish Dip:
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality smoked whitefish will make a significant difference in the taste of your dip.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can make the dip watery. Gently fold in the whitefish to maintain its texture.
- Taste and Adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the dip before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: Garnish your dip with extra dill, a sprinkle of paprika, or a few capers for an extra touch of elegance.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier dip.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with other fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
- Creamy Avocado: Add ½ an avocado, mashed, for a richer and creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. However, a reasonable estimate for one serving (approximately ¼ of the recipe) would include:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 10-15 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams
This delicious smoked whitefish dip is a fantastic choice for a quick and healthy appetizer, perfect for satisfying your cravings without compromising on flavor or convenience. Enjoy this simple yet elegant recipe, and don't hesitate to share it with your friends and family!