10-Minute Quick Smoked Salmon Bagel
A quick, fresh, and protein-rich Smoked Salmon Bagel layered with creamy dill cream cheese, crisp cucumbers, capers, and red onion. Perfect for a satisfying brunch, breakfast, or light lunch that’s ready in just 10 minutes.
Equipment
- 1 small mixing bowl
- 1 Knife for slicing
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Toaster or oven for bagels
- 1 Spoon or spatula for spreading
Ingredients
- 2 bagels halved
- 4 oz smoked salmon thinly sliced
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill plus extra for garnish
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 –2 Persian cucumbers peeled into ribbons
- Red onion slices for topping
- Capers to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: Start by placing 4 ounces of cream cheese in a small mixing bowl. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature so it’s easy to blend. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Using a spoon or small spatula, mix everything together until smooth and creamy. Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning if needed, keeping in mind that the dill and lemon will add a refreshing flavor that complements the salmon.
- Slice and Toast the Bagels: Take 2 bagels and carefully slice them in half horizontally, creating top and bottom halves. Place them in a toaster or under a broiler for a few minutes until they are lightly golden and slightly crispy. Toasting enhances the texture, prevents sogginess from the cream cheese, and gives a warm, comforting bite to each bagel.
- Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Once the bagels are toasted, use a butter knife or spatula to generously spread the cream cheese mixture onto both the top and bottom halves of each bagel. Ensure that every bite will have a smooth, even layer of the creamy dill spread. This step is essential for flavor and also helps the toppings stay in place.
- Prepare the Fresh Vegetables: Peel 1–2 Persian cucumbers into long, thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler. These delicate ribbons add a crisp texture and subtle freshness. Slice a small red onion into thin rings or half-moons for a gentle, tangy bite that balances the richness of the salmon and cream cheese.
- Layer the Smoked Salmon: Place 4 ounces of thinly sliced smoked salmon evenly on the bottom halves of the bagels. Arrange the slices carefully so they cover the surface, overlapping slightly.The salmon provides high-quality protein and healthy fats, making each bite satisfying and nourishing.
- Add Vegetables and Toppings: On top of the smoked salmon, layer the cucumber ribbons and red onion slices. Sprinkle capers to taste, which add a subtle briny flavor that enhances the salmon. Be gentle with the toppings to keep the bagel balanced and easy to eat. Add an extra sprinkle of fresh dill if desired for visual appeal and flavor.
- Assemble the Bagel: Carefully place the top halves of the toasted bagels over the layered ingredients. Press down lightly so everything stays in place without squishing the bagel too much. The combination of textures—crispy bagel, creamy spread, tender salmon, and crisp vegetables—creates a perfectly balanced bite.
- Serve and Enjoy Immediately: Slice the bagels in half diagonally if preferred and serve immediately while the bagels are still slightly warm and the ingredients fresh. This ensures maximum flavor and texture. Pair with a fresh green salad, fruit, or a cup of tea or coffee for a complete, satisfying brunch or breakfast experience.
Notes
- Use fresh bagels for the best texture; whole-grain or multigrain varieties add extra fiber.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and spreading.
- Slice cucumbers into thin ribbons for a delicate crunch and elegant presentation.
- Adjust capers and red onion according to personal taste—these add briny and tangy notes.
- Toasting bagels lightly prevents sogginess and enhances flavor.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for a short time.
- Substitute dill with chives or parsley for a different herbal twist.
- Use smoked salmon from a reputable source for optimal flavor and quality.
