SMOKED SALMON AND CREAM CHEESE DELIGHT

SMOKED SALMON AND CREAM CHEESE DELIGHT

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Delight is a timeless classic that perfectly balances rich, creamy textures with savoury, briny flavours. A whole grain bagel serves as the ideal base, offering a hearty bite and added fibre. Smooth cream cheese adds a luscious layer of creaminess, while the smoked salmon provides high-quality protein and a subtly smoky depth. The crisp cucumber slices introduce a refreshing crunch, and the capers offer a tangy, briny contrast that enhances every bite. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch or light lunch. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying post-workout meal, a weekend brunch favourite, or an easy-to-prepare, nutritious option, this bagel sandwich delivers both flavour and nourishment. It is customisable, meal-prep friendly, packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a deliciously healthy choice.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Breakfast, Brunch, Snack

SERVING SIZE

1 serving

CUISINE

American, European, Jewish

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

No-Cook, Assemble

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Brunch, Summer, Quick Breakfast, Healthy Eating, Weekend Treat

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Healthy, High Protein, Quick & Easy, Pescatarian

DISH TYPE

Sandwich

INGREDIENTS

There are the following ingredients for Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Delight:

• 1 whole grain bagel, halved

• 50g smoked salmon

• 1 tbsp cream cheese

• 1 tsp capers

• 2 slices cucumber

• ½ tsp lemon juice (optional for extra freshness)

• ¼ tsp black pepper (optional for seasoning)

• 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional for garnish)

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories: 380 kcal

• Protein: 26g

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Fibre: 6g

• Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 4g

• Sodium: 480mg

• Sugar: 3g

PREPARATION

• Prepare The Bagel: Slice the whole grain bagel in half and toast lightly until golden brown. This enhances the texture while keeping the inside soft.

• Spread The Cream Cheese: Evenly spread a generous layer of cream cheese on both halves of the toasted bagel.

• Layer The Ingredients: Place smoked salmon slices evenly over the cream cheese, ensuring each bite has a good balance of flavours.

• Add Capers And Cucumbers: Sprinkle capers over the salmon for a tangy burst of flavour, then layer the cucumber slices for added crunch and freshness.

• Season And Garnish: Drizzle with lemon juice, a pinch of black pepper and a sprinkle of fresh dill for a finishing touch. If using, add thinly sliced red onions for an extra layer of flavour.

• Assemble And Serve: Close the bagel, slice it in half if desired and enjoy immediately.

PREP TIME

5 minutes

COOKING TIME

None

TIPS

Here are some tips for the preparation of Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Delight:

• Use High-Quality Smoked Salmon: Opt for wild-caught, cold-smoked salmon for the best flavour and nutritional benefits.

• Perfectly Toasted Bagel: Toast the bagel just until golden to maintain a balance of crispness and softness.

• Extra Creaminess: For a lighter, tangier spread, mix the cream cheese with a spoonful of Greek yoghurt.

• Balanced Seasoning: A pinch of flaky sea salt enhances flavours, especially if using low-sodium smoked salmon.

• Add A Spicy Twist: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce adds a subtle heat.

• Make It Extra Crunchy: Add lettuce, arugula or thinly sliced radish for additional texture and a peppery bite.

• Pair With A Side: Serve alongside a simple green salad or a fresh fruit bowl for a complete meal.

VARIATIONS

• High-Protein Option: Add an extra portion of smoked salmon or top with a poached egg.

• Low-Carb Version: Swap the bagel for a lettuce wrap or use almond flour-based bread.

• Spicy Kick: Spread a thin layer of horseradish or spicy mustard on the bagel.

• Nutty Flavour: Sprinkle sesame seeds, sunflower seeds or slivered almonds on top for an added crunch.

• Extra Veggies: Include sliced tomatoes, radishes or baby spinach.

• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative or mashed avocado as a substitute.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Refrigeration: Store ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble fresh for the best texture.

• Freezing: Bagels can be frozen for up to 1 month; toast before serving. Smoked salmon should not be frozen after opening.

• Meal Prep Tip: Pre-portion cream cheese and salmon for easy, quick assembly throughout the week.