Introduction:
Bagel with Lox is a quintessential New York delicacy, beloved for its combination of rich, silky smoked salmon and creamy tangy cream cheese, all served on a chewy bagel. This simple yet elegant breakfast or brunch dish is often topped with thinly sliced red onions, capers, and fresh dill, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors. It's a refined yet casual meal that celebrates both tradition and freshness, making it a perfect choice for an indulgent weekend morning.
Ingredients:
- 2 fresh bagels (plain, everything, or sesame)
- 100g lox (cold-smoked salmon)
- 100g cream cheese (softened)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bagels:
- Slice the bagels in half horizontally and toast them until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside. The bagel should still be chewy on the inside.
- Spread the Cream Cheese:
- Generously spread the softened cream cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bagel.
- Layer the Lox:
- Arrange slices of lox (smoked salmon) over the cream cheese in a single layer. Make sure the lox covers the entire surface evenly.
- Add the Toppings:
- Layer thin slices of red onion, tomato, and a few capers over the lox. Sprinkle with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Finish with Seasoning:
- Season with freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve with the top half of the bagel or as an open-faced sandwich for a lighter option.
Health Notes:
- While lox and cream cheese are flavorful and indulgent, they are also relatively high in sodium and fat. Consider using low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version and watch portion sizes if you're limiting sodium intake. Adding fresh vegetables like tomatoes and onions provides fiber and essential nutrients, balancing out the richness of the lox and cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Bagel with Lox with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad to add more freshness and balance. This dish pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea for a classic brunch experience.
Tips:
- Freshness is key: Use fresh, high-quality bagels and lox for the best results. You can even lightly steam the bagels before toasting to enhance their chewiness.
- Customization: Add cucumber slices, avocado, or even a poached egg for added layers of texture and nutrition.
- Make it fancy: Sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning over the top for an extra burst of flavor or garnish with microgreens for a refined touch.
