Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Bagels Recipe | How to Cook Them Right?

June 28, 2025

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Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this timeless classic: the Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Bagel. A delightful combination of creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors, this recipe is incredibly easy to assemble and always impresses. It’s the perfect sophisticated yet simple meal for any occasion, ready in just 25 minutes.

Ingredients Required

A harmonious blend of classic ingredients for the perfect bagel.

3 medium bagels, split and toasted
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
6 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon or lox
1 Lebanese cucumber, thinly sliced
1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
3 tablespoons capers, drained (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving

How to cook Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Bagels?

Follow these simple steps to create a masterpiece.

Step 1: Toast the Bagels

Toast the bagel halves to your desired level of crispness.

Step 2: Add the Cream Cheese

While the bagels are still warm, spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese on each half.

Step 3: Layer the Salmon

Arrange the slices of smoked salmon over the cream cheese.

Step 4: Add the Cucumber

Top with a layer of thinly sliced cucumber.

Step 5: Garnish and Season

If desired, sprinkle with capers and add a few rings of red onion. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your top questions about this recipe, answered.

What type of bagel is best for this recipe?

You can use any type of bagel you prefer. Plain, everything, sesame, or poppy seed bagels all work wonderfully. Choose a high-quality, fresh bagel for the best results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the bagels just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance by slicing the cucumber and onion and having the cream cheese softened and ready to go.

What’s the difference between smoked salmon and lox?

Lox is cured in a salt brine but not smoked, giving it a saltier flavor. Smoked salmon is also cured but then smoked, which gives it a distinct smoky flavor. Both are delicious in this recipe, so feel free to use your favorite.

Are there any other toppings I can add?

Absolutely! Fresh dill, a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning, or even a few slices of ripe avocado would be delicious additions.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Bagel

For an extra touch of elegance, try toasting the bagels lightly, so they are warm and slightly crisp but still have a soft, chewy interior. Using high-quality smoked salmon will also make a significant difference in the final taste.