Smoked Salmon Bagel with Cream Cheese

This classic Smoked Salmon Bagel features a toasted everything bagel layered with rich cream cheese, silky smoked salmon, fresh dill, capers, and a squeeze of lemon. It's an elegant breakfast or brunch that's ready in minutes and packed with fresh, savory flavor.

🍽 Yield

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 3–5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

Bagels

• 2 everything bagels (or plain, sesame, or poppy seed bagels)

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for toasting)

Spread

• 6 oz (170 g) whipped cream cheese

• 1 tsp fresh lemon zest

• 1 tsp chopped fresh dill

• Freshly ground black pepper

Toppings

• 6 oz (170 g) smoked salmon (lox), thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp capers, drained

• ¼ small red onion, very thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp fresh dill sprigs

• 1 tsp black sesame seeds (optional)

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Additions

• Sliced cucumber

• Tomato slices

• Avocado slices

• Microgreens

• Pickled red onions

Instructions

Step 1 – Toast the Bagels

1. Slice the bagels in half.

2. Toast until golden and crisp.

3. Brush lightly with butter if desired.

Step 2 – Prepare the Cream Cheese

1. Mix the cream cheese with:

   • Lemon zest

   • Chopped dill

   • Freshly ground black pepper

2. Stir until smooth.

Step 3 – Assemble

1. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each toasted bagel half.

2. Arrange folded slices of smoked salmon over the cream cheese.

3. Scatter capers across the salmon.

4. Add thin slices of red onion.

5. Garnish with fresh dill and black sesame seeds.

Step 4 – Finish

1. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.

2. Squeeze lemon juice over the salmon just before eating.

Chef's Tips

• Use cold-smoked salmon for the most authentic flavor and silky texture.

• Toast the bagel just enough to make it crisp without drying it out.

• Whipped cream cheese spreads more easily and creates a lighter bite.

• Pat the capers dry before adding them to prevent excess moisture.

• Fold the salmon slices rather than laying them flat for a more elegant presentation.

Delicious Variations

Avocado Salmon Bagel

• Add sliced avocado

• Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning

• Finish with chili flakes

Mediterranean Style

• Add cucumber

• Sliced tomato

• Red onion

• Fresh parsley

• Crumbled feta cheese

Egg & Salmon

• Top with a soft-boiled or poached egg

• Sprinkle with chives

• Add cracked black pepper

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Fresh fruit salad

• Greek yogurt

• Scrambled eggs

• Hash browns

• Fresh orange juice

• Coffee or cappuccino

Storage

• Best assembled and served immediately.

• Store smoked salmon refrigerated for up to 3 days after opening.

• Keep cream cheese and toppings separate if preparing ahead.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480

• Protein: 26 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Carbohydrates: 44 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 6 g

• Sodium: 980 mg

This Smoked Salmon Bagel with Cream Cheese is a timeless brunch favorite that combines crisp toasted bagels, creamy herb-infused cheese, delicate smoked salmon, and bright garnishes for a satisfying meal that's both elegant and effortless.