Smoked Salmon Appetizer Bagel Bites

These Smoked Salmon Appetizer Bagel Bites are bite-sized, elegant, and super easy to make. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they combine creamy cheese, fresh arugula, smoked salmon, and a sprinkle of seasoning for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal prep.

• Party-Friendly: Perfect for serving as finger food or elegant canapés.

• Customizable: Swap cream cheese for avocado, add capers, or serve on crackers or cucumber rounds.

• Fresh & Flavorful: The combination of smoked salmon, arugula, dill, and seasoning is always a hit.

• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and assemble shortly before serving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 regular-sized bagels (any variety)

• Approx. 1/3 cup cream cheese

• 1 cup baby arugula

• Approx. 85 grams smoked salmon

• 1/4 cup fresh dill

• 1/2 tsp Everything But The Bagel seasoning

• Optional: lemon, for serving

Directions

1. Toast bagels if serving immediately, or leave untoasted if preparing in advance.

2. Cut each bagel in half, then cut each half into 3 even pieces. This will create 12 bites per bagel (24 total).

3. Spread cream cheese evenly over each bagel bite.

4. Fold about 3 arugula leaves in half and gently press onto cream cheese.

5. Cut smoked salmon into smaller pieces and place one piece on each bite. Fold as needed to fit.

6. Top with a sprig of fresh dill and sprinkle Everything But The Bagel seasoning.

7. Optional: Add a skewer and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8 people (3–4 bites per person)

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Bagel Alternatives: Use any bagel type, gluten-free bagels, or mini bagels for smaller bites.

• Cheese Options: Replace cream cheese with smashed avocado or a dairy-free alternative.

• Add-Ons: Include capers, thinly sliced cucumber, or radish for extra freshness.

• Base Swap: Serve on cucumber rounds, crackers, or crostini instead of bagels.

• Leafy Greens: Substitute arugula with baby spinach, watercress, or microgreens.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

• Reheating: Serve at room temperature; do not toast ahead of time if storing.

• Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble toppings just before serving for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Store bagels and toppings separately in the fridge and assemble right before serving.

2. Can I use mini bagels?

Absolutely! Mini bagels are perfect for smaller, bite-sized appetizers.

3. Can I use smoked trout or other fish?

Yes, smoked trout, lox, or even cooked salmon work as alternatives.

4. Can this be made dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cream cheese or smashed avocado in place of cream cheese.

5. What is “Everything But The Bagel” seasoning?

It’s a popular seasoning blend containing sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt.

6. Can I skip the arugula?

Yes, but it adds a nice peppery flavor and a touch of greenery.

7. Can I add capers?

Definitely! Capers add a briny, salty flavor that pairs wonderfully with smoked salmon.

8. How should I serve these at a party?

Arrange on a platter with skewers or toothpicks for easy picking.

9. Can I serve them warm?

These are best served at room temperature. Toast bagels lightly if desired, but toppings are typically cold.

10. Can I use crackers instead of bagels?

Yes, small crackers or crostini make a great alternative base for these bites.

Conclusion

Smoked Salmon Appetizer Bagel Bites are elegant, easy, and perfect for entertaining. With creamy cheese, fresh greens, smoky salmon, and a sprinkle of seasoning, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. Perfect for parties, brunch, or a casual snack tray.

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