Smoked Salmon Mousse – Elegant and Easy Holiday Appetizer

This Smoked Salmon Mousse is a creamy, savory spread that feels luxurious but takes only minutes to make. Blended with cream cheese, smoked salmon, lemon, and dill, it’s silky, flavorful, and perfect for serving on crostini, crackers, or cucumber rounds.

It’s a make-ahead appetizer that adds a touch of sophistication to any occasion, from Christmas parties to elegant brunches. Smooth, airy, and full of rich salmon flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks and tastes restaurant-quality.

What Is Smoked Salmon Mousse

Smoked salmon mousse is a creamy dip or spread made by blending smoked salmon with cream cheese, lemon juice, herbs, and seasonings. The result is a smooth, savory mixture that can be piped onto toast, used as a dip, or served as a canapé topping.

It’s a classic European-style appetizer that combines smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors in a beautifully balanced bite.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this smoked salmon mousse because it’s:

• Elegant and ready in minutes
• Smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced in flavor
• Make-ahead friendly for easy entertaining
• Ideal for holiday gatherings and brunches
• Delicious on everything from crackers to cucumber slices

It’s simple yet indulgent — the kind of appetizer that always gets compliments.

How Does It Taste

This mousse has a delicate smoky flavor from the salmon, balanced by the tang of lemon and creaminess of cheese. The fresh dill adds brightness while the smooth texture makes it irresistible.

Each bite is light but rich, making it perfect for serving in small portions or as part of an appetizer spread.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

Smoked salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. Fresh lemon and herbs add nutrients and freshness without extra calories. Using Greek yogurt or light cream cheese keeps the mousse creamy but not heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz smoked salmon (cold-smoked or lox-style)
• 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: capers, extra dill, or lemon zest

Tools You’ll Need

• Food processor or blender
• Rubber spatula
• Piping bag or serving bowl

Optional Add-Ins & Variations

• Extra flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne or horseradish for a kick.
• Herb variations: Use chives, parsley, or tarragon instead of dill.
• Dairy-free: Substitute vegan cream cheese for a plant-based version.
• Texture: For a lighter mousse, fold in a few tablespoons of whipped cream after blending.

How to Make

1. Blend base: In a food processor, combine cream cheese, smoked salmon, sour cream, lemon juice, zest, dill, and mustard.
2. Process until smooth: Blend until creamy and fluffy, scraping sides as needed. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Chill: Transfer to a bowl or piping bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors develop.
4. Serve: Pipe or spoon onto crostini, crackers, or cucumber slices. Garnish with dill, capers, or lemon zest.

What to Serve With

This mousse pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, seeded crackers, cucumber rounds, or puff pastry cups. Serve it alongside champagne, sparkling wine, or crisp white wine for an elegant pairing.

It’s also lovely as part of a smoked salmon platter with olives, pickled onions, and cream cheese.

Why It’s Perfect for the Holidays

It’s festive, easy to prepare in advance, and elegant enough for Christmas brunches, New Year’s Eve parties, or intimate dinners. The pretty pink hue and smooth texture make it a standout on any appetizer tray.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
• Chill before serving so it firms up and flavors meld.
• Don’t over-blend — stop once the texture is silky.
• Add lemon juice gradually so it doesn’t become too tangy.
• Pipe with a star tip for a beautiful presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using low-quality salmon: It can make the mousse overly salty.
• Overmixing: Can make it too dense or sticky.
• Skipping the chill time: The texture sets and flavor improves as it rests.
• Adding too much liquid: Keeps it from holding shape when piped.

How to Store & Serve

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled. Do not freeze, as the texture can separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, you can make it up to 2 days ahead and store it chilled until serving.

Can I use hot-smoked salmon?
Yes, but the flavor will be richer and less silky. Cold-smoked works best for mousse.

Can I pipe it onto appetizers?
Absolutely. It holds its shape well when chilled and looks beautiful on crostini.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe easily scales up for parties.

Nutritional Info (approximate per 2 tablespoons)

Calories: 80 | Fat: 6g | Carbs: 1g | Protein: 5g | Sodium: 190mg

Conclusion

This Smoked Salmon Mousse is smooth, elegant, and full of delicate flavor. It’s quick to prepare, easy to serve, and always makes a stunning impression on guests.

Perfect for brunches, dinner parties, and holiday celebrations, it’s a timeless recipe that brings sophistication to your table with minimal effort.

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November 8, 2025 by Melissa