Lox and Bagel
A classic New York deli breakfast featuring a crusty bagel schmeared with silky cream cheese, layered with silky smoked salmon, briny capers, and fresh dill. Ready in just 10 minutes, it's the perfect combination of creamy, salty, and fresh flavors.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prep the toppings.
1.Slice the red onion into paper-thin rings.2.Halve the lemon and cut into wedges.3.Drain the capers and chop the fresh dill.4.Season the cream cheese with a tiny pinch of salt and black pepper; mix well with a fork until smooth and spreadable.TIPLet the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before mixing — it spreads much easier without tearing the bagel. - assemble · ~5 min
Slice and schmear the bagels.
1.Slice each bagel in half horizontally with a serrated knife.2.Spread 1 tablespoon of the seasoned cream cheese on each cut side.3.Lay slices of smoked salmon generously over the cream cheese.4.Top with a few rings of red onion, a sprinkle of capers, and a pinch of fresh dill.TIPKeep bagels intact by slicing them on a cutting board with a gentle sawing motion — don't press straight down. - serve
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Serve the assembled bagels open-faced or sandwich-style. Squeeze a lemon wedge over each bagel just before eating to brighten the flavors.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easiest spreading, let cream cheese come to room temperature for 15 minutes before mixing.
- 2Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion to slice bagels without squashing them.
- 3Drain capers well and pat them dry on a paper towel to keep the bagel from getting soggy.
- 4Slice red onion paper-thin using a mandoline for the most delicate texture and milder bite.
- 5Assemble bagels just before serving to keep the bagel crusty and the toppings fresh.
- 6If making ahead, store bagel halves and toppings separately, then assemble just before eating.
Adapt it for your goals.
Everything Bagel
Use an everything bagel plus sprinkle extra everything bagel seasoning on the cream cheese for an even more intense savory, seedy crunch.
Cucumber CrunchCucumber Crunch
Add thin slices of English cucumber for a cool, crisp contrast that lightens the richness and adds a fresh green note.
Avocado LoxAvocado Lox
Mash half an avocado with a squeeze of lemon and spread it under the cream cheese for a creamier, heartier version with healthy fats.
Herb Cream CheeseHerb Cream Cheese
Blend minced fresh chives, dill, and parsley into the cream cheese for a more herbaceous, garden-fresh flavor profile.
Smoked Trout SwapSmoked Trout Swap
Replace smoked salmon with flaked hot-smoked trout for a firmer, smokier alternative that pairs beautifully with the same toppings.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3s
Smoked salmon provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids that support brain function and reduce inflammation.
Good Source of Protein
The combination of bagel, cream cheese, and smoked salmon offers a satisfying protein boost to start your day.
Low in Added Sugar
This savory bagel is naturally low in added sugars, making it a balanced choice compared to sweet breakfast pastries.
Antioxidants from Onion
Red onions contain quercetin, a potent antioxidant that supports immune health and may reduce oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
Toasting is optional but common — a light toast adds crunch and helps prevent sogginess, but many NYC purists prefer an untoasted, soft bagel.
