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Flavorful Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese Bagels

smoked salmon and dill cream cheese bagel - featured image

A quick and easy recipe combining creamy dill cream cheese with smoky smoked salmon on toasted bagels, perfect for brunch or a light lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 fresh bagels (everything or plain), sliced and lightly toasted
  • 12 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced (about 3 ounces per bagel half)
  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
  • Thinly sliced red onion, to taste
  • Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh lemon juice, a light squeeze for serving

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whip 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or whisk for 1-2 minutes until smooth and fluffy. (Tip: Soften cream cheese for at least 30 minutes beforehand.)
  2. Fold in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix gently to combine without overmixing.
  3. Slice 4 fresh bagels in half horizontally. Toast them until golden and slightly crisp, about 2-3 minutes in a toaster or toaster oven.
  4. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the dill cream cheese generously on each toasted bagel half.
  5. Layer approximately 3 ounces of smoked salmon evenly on top of the cream cheese on each bagel half.
  6. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of capers and add a few thin slices of red onion over the salmon. Optionally, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice on top to brighten the flavors.
  7. Put the bagel halves together and serve immediately. (If making ahead, keep toppings separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.)

Notes

Softening the cream cheese for at least 30 minutes before whipping helps achieve a smooth, fluffy texture. Toast bagels just before assembly to keep them crisp and avoid sogginess. Let smoked salmon sit at room temperature for a few minutes before assembling for best texture. Store components separately if making ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked salmon bagel, dill cream cheese, easy brunch recipe, quick breakfast, bagel recipe, smoked salmon, dill, cream cheese