Creamy Avocado Salmon Spread

Name: Creamy Avocado Salmon Spread
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 ripe avocado; 1 can (5 oz) of salmon, drained; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons cream cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Creamy Avocado Salmon Spread for just about any occasion. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare, but the combination of creamy avocado, rich salmon, and zesty lemon creates a dip that’s refreshing and satisfying. Whether I’m serving it at a party or enjoying it as a light meal, this spread never fails to impress. Plus, it’s great on crackers, in sandwiches, or even just enjoyed with fresh vegetables. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-19T17:35:19.579Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining salmon and avocado, I was intrigued. I decided to give it a try, and the result blew me away! The creaminess of the avocado perfectly complements the salmon, and with just a hint of lemon juice, it brightens the whole dish. I love to serve it when I have friends over, and it is always a hit.

One of the best things about this spread is how versatile it is. I've tried adding different herbs and spices, and each minor tweak results in a new flavor profile. Feel free to play around with it; you might discover a unique twist that you love just as much!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that blends beautifully with salmon
Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten your day
Quick to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Creamy Avocado Salmon Spread is undoubtedly the ripe avocado. Its creamy texture not only contributes to the dip's mouthfeel but also acts as a natural emulsifier, binding the flavors together. Make sure to choose an avocado that's fully ripe; it should yield slightly to gentle pressure. If it's too firm, allow it to ripen at room temperature for a day or two. A ripe avocado will enhance the overall richness of this spread.

The canned salmon in this recipe is another key ingredient, packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. When selecting salmon, go for wild-caught varieties when possible, as they tend to have richer flavors. If you're not a fan of canned salmon, you can substitute it with cooked, flaked fresh salmon, though it might need a bit more seasoning to achieve the same balance of flavors. Adjust the salt and lemon juice accordingly to keep the taste vibrant.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect texture is essential for a great spread. When mashing the ingredients together, use a fork or potato masher to control the creaminess level. For a chunkier texture, mash lightly, leaving some salmon pieces intact. Conversely, for a smoother spread, continue mashing until it’s mostly homogenous. Aim for a consistency that holds well on a cracker without being too runny, which can happen if the avocado is over-mashed or the cream cheese is too soft.

To avoid a color change in your avocados, quickly incorporate the lemon juice right after mashing. The acidity of lemon juice not only provides flavor but also helps to keep the avocado looking fresh and green. If you have leftover spread, a thin layer of lemon juice on top before sealing can further prevent browning when storing. Just be sure to consume the spread within 2 days for the best flavor and appearance.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this spread can be as fun as making it! Beyond crackers and toast, consider pairing it with fresh veggie sticks like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers for a refreshing, healthy snack. You could also use this spread as a filling in sandwiches or wraps—just pile it onto your favorite bread or tortilla, adding some crisp greens for extra texture. I sometimes add slices of tomato or cucumber to elevate the freshness.

If you're looking to add more flavor, try incorporating a touch of hot sauce or a hint of garlic powder into the mix for an added kick. For those who enjoy a herby twist, using fresh basil or cilantro instead of dill can completely change the profile while still maintaining harmony with the salmon. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your spread amazing!

Ingredients

1 ripe avocado
1 can (5 oz) of salmon, drained
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons cream cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Enjoy your flavorful avocado salmon spread with your choice of dipping vessels!

Instructions

Creating this spread is as easy as 1-2-3!

Prepare the Ingredients

Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Add the drained salmon, lemon juice, and cream cheese.

Mix Together

Using a fork or a potato masher, mash the ingredients together until they reach your desired level of creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the spread to a serving dish and garnish with chopped dill or parsley. Serve immediately with crackers, toast, or fresh veggies.

Dig in and enjoy this delicious and creamy spread!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños into the mixture before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this Creamy Avocado Salmon Spread in advance can be a real time-saver. You can make it up to a day ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the spread before sealing to minimize oxidation. The lemon juice will help, but protecting it from air will keep it looking and tasting bright.

Once you're ready to serve, simply give the spread a quick stir to reincorporate any separation that might have occurred. If it's too thick after chilling, you can add a splash of water or lemon juice to loosen it up. This makes it easy to prepare for parties or gatherings without the last-minute rush.

Storage and Freezing

Regarding storage, the spread is best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep it well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing any odors or flavors from the refrigerator. If you notice the top browning, simply scoop off the top layer for a fresh start underneath.

Freezing this spread is not recommended as the texture of the avocado and cream cheese can become watery upon thawing, affecting its creaminess and flavor. Instead, consider preparing smaller batches if you're unsure about consuming it within a few days, ensuring you always have this delicious dip on hand when cravings strike.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it convenient for various occasions. If you're hosting a larger gathering, simply multiply the ingredients. A good rule of thumb is to double or triple everything if you're expecting more guests. However, keep in mind that you may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly; taste-testing after scaling is essential to achieving that perfect balance.

When scaling up, consider the mixing tools you use. You might need a larger bowl or a stand mixer for efficient blending, especially if the quantities become significant. Keeping the same ratios but increasing the quantity will lead to a consistent flavor throughout, so feel free to experiment!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes! Just ensure it's cooked and flaked. It will give a fresh taste!

→ How long can I store the spread?

You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve it with?

It’s great with crackers, toast, or even fresh vegetables like cucumber and celery.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced onions, cucumber, or herbs to enhance the flavor.