Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Bagel Board

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Looking for a show-stopping brunch or appetizer that’s elegant, customizable, and perfect for sharing?

A Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Bagel Board is exactly what you need.

It’s visually stunning, easy to assemble, and packed with flavor.

Think of it as a DIY bagel brunch spread—guests can build their own bagels with fresh toppings, or you can serve them pre-assembled for a more polished presentation.

Whether it’s for a holiday brunch, bridal shower, or weekend gathering, this bagel board will impress everyone.

⭐ Why You’ll Love a Bagel Board

  • Customizable: Everyone can choose their favorite toppings.

  • Elegant presentation: Perfect for entertaining or brunch parties.

  • Quick assembly: Minimal cooking required.

  • Deliciously balanced: Creamy, savory, tangy, and crunchy in every bite.

Ingredients

Bagels

  • 6–8 bagels (plain, everything, or sesame)

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

Protein

  • 8 oz (225g) smoked salmon, thinly sliced

Vegetables & Fruits

  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 small cucumber, sliced

  • Capers (2–3 tablespoons)

  • 1 avocado, sliced (optional)

  • Lemon wedges

Extras & Garnishes

  • Fresh dill

  • Fresh chives, chopped

  • Everything bagel seasoning

  • Pickled vegetables (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Board

  1. Choose a large wooden board, platter, or serving tray.

  2. Arrange small bowls for cream cheese, capers, and any sauces or spreads.

2. Slice the Bagels

  • Cut bagels in half and toast lightly if desired.

  • Arrange them on the board or keep them in a basket for guests to grab.

3. Assemble the Toppings

  1. Place smoked salmon slices in a central area.

  2. Arrange sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, capers, and lemon wedges in visually appealing piles or rows.

  3. Add fresh dill and chives to a small bowl or sprinkle over the toppings.

4. Serve

  • Encourage guests to build their own bagels with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and their favorite toppings.

  • Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning or a little extra fresh dill over the assembled bagels for a finishing touch.

  • Serve immediately for best taste and freshness.

⭐ Tips for the Best Bagel Board

  • Keep ingredients cold: Smoked salmon and cream cheese should be chilled until serving.

  • Mix textures: Add crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and soft bagels for balance.

  • Variety is key: Offer different bagel flavors for more visual appeal and taste options.

  • Garnish beautifully: Fresh herbs and lemon wedges make your board Instagram-worthy.

🎉 Variations

  • Mini bagel sliders: Use small bagels or bagel bites for a party-friendly version.

  • Vegan option: Swap cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and smoked salmon with marinated carrot lox.

  • Mediterranean twist: Add feta, olives, and roasted red peppers.

  • Sweet-salty combo: Include fig jam or honey on the side for those who love a sweet contrast.

How to Store

  • Keep leftover smoked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

  • Pre-sliced vegetables can be stored separately for up to 24 hours.

  • Assemble the bagel board right before serving for the freshest taste.

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