Fully Loaded Bagel Bar Recipe
This easy bagel bar recipe is perfect for brunch, lunch, or any gathering. Featuring fresh bagels, smoked salmon, herb spreads, and a variety of toppings, this spread is as impressive as it is simple to assemble.
Equipment
- Small bowls or ramekins for spreads and toppings
- Serving tongs or small forks for easy access to toppings
Ingredients
- A variety of bagels plain, sesame, everything, etc., preferably pre-sliced
- Toaster for fresh bagels if needed
- Serving board or large platter
Spreads:
- Smoked Salmon Spread recipe below
- Herb Cream Cheese Spread recipe below
- Plain cream cheese
Toppings:
- Sliced smoked salmon 2 oz per person
- Capers drained
- Sliced red onion
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced tomatoes or whole cherry tomatoes
- Sliced avocado sprinkle with everything-bagel seasoning, optional
- Fresh dill sprigs
Smoked Salmon Spread:
- 8 oz plain cream cheese room temperature
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1½ tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ tsp Tabasco or hot sauce optional
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt to taste
- 4 oz smoked salmon finely chopped
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives plus extra for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Herb Cream Cheese Spread:
- 8 oz plain cream cheese room temperature
- ¼ cup finely chopped chives or green onions green parts only
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 garlic clove pressed or grated
Instructions
Prepare the Smoked Salmon Spread:
- Combine cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, Tabasco (if using), and salt in a food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Mix in chopped smoked salmon and chives. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make the Herb Cream Cheese Spread:
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, chives, dill, and garlic. Use a fork to fully incorporate the herbs.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Arrange the Bagel Bar:
- Lay smoked salmon slices on one section of the board in overlapping ribbons.
- Place spreads and toppings in bowls or ramekins. Arrange them on the board around the salmon.
- Fill gaps with tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado slices. Sprinkle fresh dill sprigs for garnish.
- Add pre-sliced bagels to the board or arrange them separately in a basket or another platter.
Serve:
- Set out utensils for spreads and toppings.
- Allow guests to assemble their bagels with their choice of spreads and toppings.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tips: Store spreads and capers in individual dishes covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the board just before serving.
Bagel Freshness: If using frozen bagels, thaw and slice them the day before. Toast as desired before serving.
Customization: Add additional toppings like pickled onions, roasted red peppers, or flavored cream cheeses for variety.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!