Avocado Salmon Spread

flyin'cook's Note:

This is a tasty and healthy alternative to typical seafood dips and spreads. The avocado is so rich and creamy, you'll never miss the mayonnaise and shredded cheeses that most recipes contain. Also, you can substitute light cream cheese for regular without compromising texture or flavor.

• Total Time: 25 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 4-6

Yield: 1.5 cups

• 6 ounces salmon fillets
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons shallots , minced
• 2 garlic cloves , minced
• 1 ripe mexican avocado
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 ½ tablespoons cream cheese , softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives , minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill , minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions:

1. Season the salmon filet with the black pepper. Set a small skillet over low/medium heat, add the olive oil, salmon filet, shallot and garlic and cook, turning the salmon once for about 10 minutes. The salmon should be just cooked through.
2. Transfer the salmon, including the shallot and garlic, to a small mixing bowl and allow to cool for 10 minutes, then cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled.
3. When the salmon is fully chilled, use a fork to flake the fish apart. Remove the pit and scoop the avocado flesh right into the bowl, add the lemon juice and mash all together well. Stir in the cream cheese, chives, dill, salt and cayenne and mix well.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Serve with crackers, bagel chips or toast points.