Name: Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 bagels, halved; 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced; 4 ounces cream cheese; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, plus more for serving; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1-2 Persian cucumbers, peeled in ribbons; Red onion slices, for serving; Capers, to taste

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If you are looking for an incredibly tasty and quick brunch that bursts with fresh, bright flavors, this Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine the creaminess of whipped cream cheese mingling with the delicate smoky notes of salmon, all layered on a perfectly toasted bagel. Every bite feels indulgent yet light, combining crisp cucumbers, tangy lemon, and aromatic dill into one harmonious mouthful. It makes for a satisfying meal whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a leisurely weekend breakfast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two plain bagels with a golden brown top layer stacked slightly on a white marbled surface. Around them are small white and clear bowls arranged in a loose circle. One white bowl holds thin, bright green zucchini ribbons with a smooth texture. Another white bowl contains thin slices of purple-red onion, slightly curled. There is a pile of thin, flat slices of orange smoked salmon in one white bowl, while another small white bowl contains a solid block of white cream cheese with a smooth and soft texture. A clear bowl with small green capers and another clear bowl with a mixture of salt and black pepper are also part of the setup. A small clear bowl with a pale yellow liquid, likely lemon juice, and a white bowl filled with finely chopped green dill complete the arrangement. All are placed on a simple white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each adding its own character. From the rich, velvety cream cheese and luscious smoked salmon to the fresh dill and citrusy lemon juice, these basics come together to create a symphony of textures and flavors that sing when combined.

2 bagels halved: Choose your favorite variety for a sturdy base that toasts beautifully and holds all the toppings.
4 ounces smoked salmon thinly sliced: The star ingredient that brings that distinctive smoky, silky richness to the recipe.
4 ounces cream cheese: Provides a smooth, creamy spread that balances the salmon’s boldness perfectly.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to awaken the flavors and cut through the richness.
1 tablespoon fresh dill plus more for serving: Offers a fragrant, herbal note that complements seafood wonderfully.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all components.
1-2 Persian cucumbers peeled in ribbons: Brings a cool, crisp texture and subtle freshness to the bagel.
Red onion slices, for serving: Adds a sharp bite and a pop of color for contrast.
Capers to taste: Provide a burst of briny tanginess that brightens each mouthful.

How to Make Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, gently combine the cream cheese, lemon juice, fresh dill, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. This simple blend transforms plain cream cheese into a zesty spread with herbal freshness that will tie the entire bagel together beautifully.

Step 2: Toast the Bagels

Slice your bagels in half and toast them until they are golden and slightly crisp on the edges. The warm crunch provides the perfect texture contrast to the silky spread and fish.

Step 3: Assemble the Bagel Layers

Spread a generous layer of the dill cream cheese mixture on both halves of each toasted bagel. On the bottom halves, layer the cucumber ribbons first for crunch, then add ample smoked salmon, followed by capers and thin red onion slices. Finally, place the top halves on and gently press down to marry all the flavors together.

How to Serve Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe

A white toasted bagel is opened flat on a white plate with a white marbled surface beneath. The bottom half of the bagel is spread with a thick layer of white cream cheese mixed with green herbs. On top of that, thin green cucumber slices curl gently along the edges. Bright orange smoked salmon pieces are layered over the cucumber, topped with dark green capers scattered around. Thin slices of purple-red onion curl on top, along with small sprigs of fresh green dill for garnish. The top half of the bagel, also spread with the same herb cream cheese, lies open next to the layered bottom half. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh dill on top for a fragrant finishing touch that makes each bite vibrant. You can also add a few capers or a small squeeze of lemon over the assembled bagel to elevate those bright, savory accents.

Side Dishes

This bagel pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of mixed fresh berries. Both help keep the meal bright and balanced without overpowering the star ingredients.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch parties, consider serving the Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe as open-faced sandwiches on a wooden board with colorful garnishes arranged around. Alternatively, stack mini bagels for a fun slider-style presentation or plate halves as an elegant appetizer on dainty porcelain plates for a special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the assembled bagels separately from the creamy spread in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess. When ready to enjoy again, simply add fresh toppings to guarantee the best texture.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze assembled Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipes because the texture of the smoked salmon and vegetables can suffer. However, you can freeze plain bagels wrapped tightly and toast them fresh before assembling.

Reheating

Reheat bagels gently in a toaster or oven until warm and crisp, but avoid microwaving as it tends to make them chewy. Always add cold or freshly sliced toppings after reheating for the best flavor and texture experience.

FAQs

Can I use regular salmon instead of smoked salmon?

While you could use cooked salmon, smoked salmon has a unique flavor and texture that’s key to this recipe. If you prefer, cold-smoked salmon or gravlax are the best alternatives for that delicate smokiness and silky bite.

What kind of bagels work best for this recipe?

Classic plain or everything bagels are popular choices. They have enough firmness to hold toppings and their flavors complement smoked salmon well. Feel free to experiment with sesame or poppy seed bagels for variety.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can try mascarpone or ricotta for a different creamy texture, though cream cheese’s tanginess matches smoked salmon perfectly. For a dairy-free option, a vegan cream cheese spread works well too.

How long does this Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe take to prepare?

It’s wonderfully quick—about 10 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans when you want something satisfying instantly.

Can I add other toppings to the bagel?

Absolutely! Sliced tomatoes, avocado, or even a soft-boiled egg are fantastic additions that add more depth and flavor to the classic combination.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe is such a delightful combination of flavors and textures that it quickly becomes a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Its effortless preparation means you can have something that tastes luxurious in mere minutes. Give it a try—you might just find yourself craving it again and again!

Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need