Few dishes can match the simple sophistication and flavor-packed goodness of a smoked salmon bagel with cream cheese. Whether you're hosting friends for brunch, grabbing a quick lunch, or treating yourself to a leisurely breakfast, this recipe is the perfect choice. Think of it as the happy marriage of rich, creamy, and smoky flavors with a medley of fresh and zesty toppings. The best part? You don't need to be a master chef to pull it off.
Let's break it down step by step to create your perfect smoked salmon bagel.
Ingredients 🥯
Here’s what you’ll need to get started. Feel free to swap or add ingredients to suit your taste!
- 2 fresh bagels (plain, everything, or sesame bagels work best)
- 4 ounces of cream cheese (plain or flavored, like chive or dill)
- 4 to 6 slices of smoked salmon (lox or gravlax for best results)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium tomato, sliced into thin rounds
- A handful of arugula or mixed greens
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
- Fresh dill, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
How to Prepare Your Smoked Salmon Bagel
Step 1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping your ingredients. Thinly slice your red onion, tomato, and avocado if you're using it. Rinse the capers and pat them dry, and wash the greens. Slice your bagels in half, ready for toasting.
Step 2. Toast the Bagels
Lightly toast the bagels to your desired crispness. The warm, slightly crispy texture pairs beautifully with the rich toppings.
Step 3. Spread the Cream Cheese
Generously spread a thick layer of cream cheese onto the bottom halves of each bagel. This creamy base is what makes the whole dish come together, so don’t skimp! You can also get creative here by using flavored cream cheese, like herb, garlic, or even jalapeño for a little kick.
Step 4. Layer the Smoked Salmon
Add two to three slices of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese. The silky texture and smoky flavor of the salmon are what make this bagel truly luxurious.
Step 5. Add Fresh Toppings
Now for the fun part! Layer on the toppings. Start with the red onion slices, followed by tomato rounds, avocado slices (if using), a handful of greens, and a scattering of capers.
Step 6. Season and Garnish
Sprinkle a little salt and freshly ground pepper on top. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh dill for an extra pop of flavor and aroma.
Step 7. Assemble and Serve
Place the top half of the bagel on your masterpiece and gently press it down. If you prefer, you can serve it open-faced for a more elegant presentation. Add a lemon wedge to the side for a refreshing squeeze right before taking a bite.
Customization Tips
- Capers and More - If you love briny flavors, go for extra capers or add pickled onions.
- Spice it Up - Sprinkle on crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Add a Sweet Touch - A drizzle of honey or a few thin slices of cucumber can balance the smoky flavors beautifully.
- Experiment with Bagels - Try a pumpernickel or whole-grain bagel if you’re craving something different.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smoked salmon bagels with cream cheese are endlessly customizable, quick to make, and delightfully satisfying. They’re perfect for a fancy-looking breakfast in bed or a make-ahead brunch platter for guests. Plus, they’re a great way to incorporate heart-healthy fats from salmon and avocado into your diet.
Now, it’s time to grab those ingredients, toast some bagels, and indulge in your own homemade smoked salmon bagel. Warning: you might never go back to store-bought once you taste how fresh and vibrant this version is! Bon appétit!
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