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Flavorful Smoked Salmon Bagel Board Recipe with Easy Everything Cream Cheese Spread

smoked salmon bagel board - featured image

A quick and easy smoked salmon bagel board featuring a homemade everything cream cheese spread that brings classic bagel flavors to your plate. Perfect for brunch or gatherings with simple ingredients and minimal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp poppy seeds
  • 1 tsp dried minced onion
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch
  • 68 oz (170225 g) thinly sliced smoked salmon
  • Fresh dill sprigs
  • Lemon wedges
  • Thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • Capers (optional)
  • 4 bagels, sliced in half and toasted (plain, everything, or your favorite variety)
  • Optional: sliced cucumber or cherry tomatoes for freshness

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Everything Cream Cheese Spread: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with toasted sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced onion, garlic powder, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend with a spoon or whisk until evenly combined and smooth. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  2. Toast the Bagels: Slice bagels in half and toast until golden and slightly crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid burning; a lightly browned edge is ideal.
  3. Slice Fresh Toppings: Thinly slice red onions (if using), cucumbers, and cut lemon wedges. Remove dill sprigs from stems, keeping them intact for garnish. Halve cherry tomatoes if using.
  4. Arrange the Board: Lay toasted bagels on a serving board. Spread a generous layer of the everything cream cheese on each half. Layer smoked salmon slices on top. Scatter red onions, capers, cucumber slices, and dill sprigs around the board. Place lemon wedges strategically for easy squeezing.
  5. Final Touches: Before serving, squeeze fresh lemon over the salmon to brighten flavors.

Notes

Use firm, small-curd cream cheese for best texture. Toast bagels just before assembling to avoid sogginess. Make the everything cream cheese spread up to a day ahead and store covered in the fridge. Use dairy-free cream cheese and gluten-free bagels for dietary adaptations. Fold smoked salmon slices gently for volume. Use capers and onions sparingly to avoid overpowering flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked salmon, bagel board, everything cream cheese, brunch recipe, easy appetizer, smoked salmon bagel, cream cheese spread