Smoked Salmon Bagel Platter

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this smoked salmon bagel platter for its elegance, simplicity, and versatility. It requires zero cooking, can be assembled in minutes, and looks beautiful when served. The combination of savory smoked salmon, crisp veggies, and creamy cream cheese on a toasted bagel is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, everyone can build their bagel exactly the way they like it.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bagels (plain, everything, sesame, or your favorites)
• Smoked salmon (lox or cold-smoked)
• Cream cheese (plain and flavored varieties like chive or veggie)
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Cucumber (thinly sliced)
• Tomato (sliced)
• Capers
• Fresh dill
• Lemon wedges
• Arugula, mixed greens, or microgreens (optional)
• Hard-boiled eggs (optional, sliced or halved)
• Avocado slices (optional)
• Olive oil and cracked black pepper (for drizzling and seasoning, optional)

Directions

1. Prep the ingredients:
   • Slice the bagels in half. Toast them just before serving, or arrange untoasted if preferred.
   • Slice the red onion, cucumber, tomato, and any additional toppings.
   • Arrange lemon wedges, capers, and fresh dill for garnish and flavor.
   • If using hard-boiled eggs or avocado, prepare and slice them.
2. Assemble the platter:
   • On a large serving board or tray, arrange smoked salmon slices in folds or ribbons.
   • Place cream cheese (in bowls or scooped into dollops), vegetables, and toppings around the salmon.
   • Add the sliced bagels to one side or in a basket next to the platter.
3. Garnish and serve:
   • Sprinkle the platter with fresh dill, cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
   • Serve immediately and let guests build their own bagels.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: None
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Mini bagels: Use mini bagels or bagel halves for bite-sized, party-friendly servings.
• Dairy-free: Offer a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or hummus.
• Low-carb: Swap bagels for cucumber slices or lettuce wraps.
• Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a spicy cream cheese spread.
• Sweet and savory: Include fig jam or honey for a sweet contrast.
• Bagel board: Turn it into a full brunch board with extras like muffins, fruit, and pastries.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers separately in airtight containers.

• Smoked salmon: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Vegetables: Store in airtight containers for 2–3 days.
• Bagels: Store at room temperature for 1–2 days or freeze for longer shelf life.
• Cream cheese: Keep refrigerated and covered.

Reheating:

• Bagels can be reheated in a toaster or oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
• Do not reheat smoked salmon or toppings; they are best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of smoked salmon should I use?

Cold-smoked salmon (lox) is traditional for bagels, offering a silky texture and mild flavor. Hot-smoked salmon is flakier and stronger in taste.

Can I make the platter ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients in advance, but assemble the platter just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Do the bagels need to be toasted?

Toasting is optional and based on preference. Toasted bagels add texture and warmth, but untoasted bagels work fine too.

What are the best bagel flavors for this platter?

Plain, everything, sesame, or whole wheat bagels complement smoked salmon well.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bagels or bread options to suit dietary needs.

What’s the best way to slice smoked salmon for a platter?

Use a sharp knife to slice it into thin ribbons or folds for easy layering and elegant presentation.

Can I add cheese other than cream cheese?

Yes, soft cheeses like goat cheese or herbed Boursin are great alternatives or additions.

How much salmon should I serve per person?

Plan for about 2 ounces of smoked salmon per person, or more if it’s the main item.

Is this dish suitable for brunch parties?

Absolutely. It’s low-effort, visually appealing, and allows guests to customize their meal.

What drinks pair well with a smoked salmon platter?

Serve with fresh juice, coffee, tea, or even sparkling wine or mimosas for a festive touch.

Conclusion

A smoked salmon bagel platter is a beautiful, effortless, and delicious way to serve breakfast or brunch. With fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and endless topping possibilities, it’s a dish that feels special without being complicated. Whether for a casual weekend or an elegant gathering, this platter brings both flavor and style to the table.

Smoked Salmon Bagel Platter

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A smoked salmon bagel platter is a no-cook, elegant breakfast or brunch spread featuring toasted bagels, creamy spreads, silky smoked salmon, and a variety of fresh toppings. It’s customizable, quick to assemble, and perfect for entertaining.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 4–6 bagels (plain, everything, sesame, etc.)
• 8–12 oz smoked salmon (lox or cold-smoked)
• 8 oz cream cheese (plain and/or flavored)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, sliced
• 2 tablespoons capers
• Fresh dill, for garnish
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1/2 cup arugula, microgreens, or mixed greens (optional)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced (optional)
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
• Olive oil and cracked black pepper (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prep ingredients: Slice bagels in half. Toast if desired just before serving. Thinly slice red onion, cucumber, tomato, and other toppings.
2. Assemble the platter: Arrange smoked salmon in folds or ribbons on a large board or tray. Place cream cheese in small bowls or spoon in dollops. Surround with sliced vegetables, lemon wedges, capers, greens, eggs, and avocado.
3. Add bagels: Place toasted bagels on the side of the platter or in a separate basket.
4. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh dill and cracked black pepper. Drizzle olive oil over avocado if desired. Serve immediately and let guests build their own bagels.

Notes

• Use a variety of bagel types and cream cheese flavors for variety.
• Prep toppings in advance, but assemble the platter fresh for best texture.
• Store smoked salmon and cream cheese chilled until just before serving.
• Provide small knives and spoons for easy self-serve access.
• Great for holidays, brunch buffets, or casual gatherings.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6 of platter)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg