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High-Protein Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe

High-Protein Smoked Salmon Bagel Recipe

By What’s Baking

A protein-packed breakfast masterpiece featuring toasted artisan bagels topped with tangy cream cheese, silky smoked salmon, and fresh garnishes for a satisfying, gourmet start to your day.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
2 mins
Serves:
2 bagels
An overhead shot captures a halved bagel on a marble serving board, both pieces generously smeared with herb-flecked cream cheese and layered with delicate folds of deep coral smoked salmon. Soft morning light highlights the contrasting textures—the toasted, golden-brown bagel surface, creamy white cheese layer, and silky salmon. Thinly sliced red onions, capers, and fresh dill sprigs add pops of color, while a wedge of lemon sits alongside. In the background, a small bowl of capers and a butter knife with traces of cream cheese complete the composition, suggesting a luxurious yet accessible breakfast experience.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 whole grain bagels (approximately 100g each)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">150g smoked salmon slices</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">100g reduced-fat cream cheese</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">50g Greek yogurt (0% fat)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon chives, finely sliced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon lemon zest</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon lemon juice</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons capers, drained</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Freshly ground black pepper</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 lemon wedges, to serve</li> </ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Toaster</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Small mixing bowl</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Microplane or zester</li> </ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Begin by slicing your bagels in half horizontally and toasting them until they reach a golden-brown color with a slightly crisp exterior but still soft interior. The toasting step is crucial as it creates a sturdy base that can support the toppings while providing textural contrast. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, chopped dill, sliced chives, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, well-incorporated spread. The Greek yogurt not only increases the protein content but also creates a lighter, tangier spread that complements the rich salmon. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Once your bagels are toasted and slightly cooled (about 1 minute), generously spread the cream cheese mixture over all four bagel halves. Apply an even layer, making sure to reach the edges – this acts as your "adhesive" for the toppings. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Layer the smoked salmon slices over the cream cheese mixture, gently folding them to create height and texture. Aim for about 35-40g of salmon per bagel half, distributing it evenly for the perfect protein balance in each bite. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Artfully scatter the thinly sliced red onion and capers on top of the salmon. The sharp flavors of these ingredients cut through the richness of the salmon and cream cheese, creating a balanced taste profile. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Finish with a light sprinkle of fresh dill fronds, a few grinds of black pepper, and serve immediately with a lemon wedge on the side. The fresh herbs and citrus brightness elevate the flavor profile and provide a restaurant-quality finish. For maximum enjoyment, squeeze the lemon wedge over the assembled bagel just before eating. </li> </ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving
🔥 Calories: 310 calories
🥑 Fat: 9 g
🧈 Saturated Fat: 2 g
🍞 Carbohydrates: 6 g
🍭 Sugar: 3 g
🍗 Protein: 47 g
🫀 Cholesterol: 145 mg
🧂 Sodium: 520 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I prepare the cream cheese spread in advance?

Absolutely! The herb-infused cream cheese spread can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes morning assembly even quicker, though you may want to let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before spreading for optimal consistency.

What's the best type of bagel to use with smoked salmon?

While whole grain bagels are recommended for added nutrition and fibre, traditional options like plain, sesame seed, or everything bagels work beautifully with smoked salmon. For authentic New York-style salmon bagels, consider using chewy plain or onion bagels with a slightly crisp exterior.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free but still high in protein?

Replace cream cheese and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese blended with silken tofu or dairy-free yogurt. You can add nutritional yeast for extra protein and a slight cheesy flavour. This substitution maintains the creamy texture while keeping the protein content high.

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