Decadent Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Avocados for a Perfect Meal
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Avocados is a flavorful and nutritious dish combining the creaminess of ripe avocados with the rich, savory taste of smoked salmon and smooth, tangy cream cheese.
Equipment
- Cutting board For slicing the avocados, smoked salmon, and any additional garnishes.
- Sharp Knife To halve and pit the avocados, and chop any herbs or onions.
- Spoon For scooping out the avocado flesh and creating a cavity for the stuffing.
- Mixing Bowl: To blend the cream cheese, smoked salmon, and any other ingredients together.
- Fork or Whisk For mixing and softening the cream cheese.
- Small Spoon or Spatula To stuff the avocado halves with the cream cheese and salmon mixture.
- Serving Plate For presenting the stuffed avocados attractively.
- Citrus Juicer (optional) To squeeze fresh lemon juice for the recipe. To squeeze fresh lemon juice for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Ripe Avocados – 4 medium-sized avocados, halved and pitted
- Smoked Salmon – 8 ounces, thinly sliced or flaked
- Cream Cheese – 8 ounces, softened (can use full-fat, reduced-fat, or dairy-free alternatives)
- Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
- Fresh Dill or Chives – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (for garnish and added flavor)
- Capers (optional) – 2 tablespoons, drained
- Red Onion (optional) – 2 tablespoons, finely diced
- Salt and Black Pepper – to taste
- Olive Oil (optional) – for drizzling on top before serving
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Avocados:
- Slice the avocados in half lengthwise and carefully remove the pits.
- Use a spoon to scoop out a small amount of avocado from the center of each half, creating a larger cavity for the filling. Set the extra avocado aside.
- 2 . Mix the Filling:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and smoked salmon.
- Mash the smoked salmon into small pieces and mix thoroughly with the cream cheese until well combined. If you saved any of the scooped-out avocado, you can mash it into the mixture for added creaminess.
- Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste, and stir in any optional ingredients like red onion, capers, or fresh herbs.
- 3. Stuff the Avocados:
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each avocado half with the smoked salmon and cream cheese mixture, ensuring the cavity is fully packed.
- Sprinkle fresh dill or chives over the stuffed avocados for a pop of color and added flavor.
- If desired, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top and add a few capers or a dash of black pepper for extra flair.
- 5. Serve:
- Place the stuffed avocados on a serving plate and enjoy immediately. These can be served as a light appetizer, lunch, or snack.
Notes
- Choose Ripe Avocados: For the best texture and flavor, ensure the avocados are perfectly ripe. They should give slightly when pressed but not feel mushy.
- Quality Smoked Salmon: Opt for high-quality smoked salmon, as it significantly impacts the flavor. Wild-caught or premium-grade smoked salmon will elevate the dish.
- Softening Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to make mixing easier. If it’s too firm, it can be hard to blend smoothly with the salmon.
- Customizable Filling: Feel free to get creative with the stuffing. Add finely chopped red onion, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra crunch, or mix in herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for added freshness.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative. This ensures you still get the creamy texture without compromising dietary restrictions.
- Serve Immediately: For the freshest flavor and best presentation, serve the stuffed avocados right after preparing them. Avocados can brown if left out too long.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and sprinkle with extra lemon juice to help prevent the avocado from browning. It’s best eaten within a day.