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.