Description
This Smoked Salmon Cheese Ball is a delightful appetizer combining creamy cream cheese, savory smoked salmon, tangy sour cream, and zesty lemon pepper seasoning. Rolled in crunchy pecans and fresh herbs, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, ideal for parties or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball Base
- 16 ounces cream cheese
- 12 ounces smoked salmon (or regular salmon plus 1 teaspoon liquid smoke)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
Coating
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, parsley, dill, etc), chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: If using regular salmon instead of smoked, combine 12 ounces of cooked salmon with 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to mimic the smoked flavor. Ensure the salmon is finely chopped or flaked.
- Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, finely diced red onion, lemon pepper seasoning, and the prepared smoked salmon. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands, form the mixture into a smooth, firm ball. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up and flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the roughly chopped pecans and chopped fresh herbs.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: Roll the chilled cheese ball in the pecan and herb mixture until evenly coated on all sides. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Final Chill: Place the coated cheese ball back into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let it set fully.
- Serve: Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- If using regular salmon, liquid smoke is essential to achieve that characteristic smoked flavor.
- For an extra tang, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice into the cheese mixture.
- Fresh herbs can be varied depending on preferred flavor—dill is classic with smoked salmon, but chives and parsley add fresh notes.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Cheese ball can be made a day ahead and stored covered in refrigerator to enhance flavors.
Keywords: smoked salmon cheese ball, appetizer, party snack, cheese ball recipe, smoked salmon appetizer