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Perfect Smoked Salmon Bagel Board Recipe with 10 Easy Fixings to Impress

smoked salmon bagel board - featured image

A simple yet stunning smoked salmon bagel board featuring toasted bagels, creamy dill-lemon cream cheese, fresh veggies, and flavorful fixings. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Assorted bagels (everything, sesame, plain) – fresh and chewy
  • Butter or olive oil for toasting (optional)
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) high-quality smoked salmon slices (wild-caught preferred)
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened (can substitute with dairy-free cream cheese)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Cucumber, thinly sliced
  • Red onion, thinly sliced (soaked in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow sharpness)
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Capers (optional)
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for drizzling)
  • Fresh parsley or additional dill sprigs
  • Avocado slices (optional)
  • Radishes, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon fresh dill, lemon zest, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Toast the Bagels: Slice bagels in half and toast in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) until golden and slightly crisp. Optionally, spread butter or brush with olive oil before toasting. Keep warm.
  3. Prepare the Veggies: Thinly slice cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and radishes. Soak red onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
  4. Arrange the Smoked Salmon: Lay out smoked salmon slices on the serving board, folding or fanning for visual appeal.
  5. Assemble the Board: On a large wooden board or platter, arrange toasted bagel halves, cream cheese spread in a small bowl with a spreading knife, smoked salmon, and veggie fixings. Add small bowls of capers, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs. Prepare avocado slices just before serving.
  6. Final Touches: Garnish with extra lemon wedges and sprinkle black pepper over cream cheese if desired. Keep chilled until serving.

Notes

Soak red onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow sharpness. Soften cream cheese before mixing for smooth spread. Prepare avocado slices just before serving to avoid browning. Keep all components chilled until serving for freshness. Use gluten-free bagels or crackers for gluten-free option. Dairy-free cream cheese alternatives work well for dairy-free diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked salmon, bagel board, brunch, cream cheese spread, easy recipe, potluck, fresh veggies, dill, lemon zest