Smoked Salmon Rounds

Ingredients:

  • 12 bagel chips (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
  • Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)
  • For the Lemon Herb Cream Cheese:
    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
    • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
    • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
    • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Lemon Herb Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, chives, and parsley. Mix until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of cream to loosen it up.
  2. Assemble the Bagel Bites: Lay out the bagel chips on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of the lemon herb cream cheese (about 1-2 teaspoons) onto each bagel chip.
  3. Add the Smoked Salmon: Cut the smoked salmon into small pieces, roughly the size of the bagel chips. Place a piece of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese on each bagel chip.
  4. Garnish: Top each bagel bite with a small sprig of fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
  5. Serve: Arrange the bagel bites on a platter and serve immediately as an appetizer or snack. If preparing ahead, store in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving, but add the dill garnish just before serving to keep it fresh.

Note: If making homemade bagel chips, slice a bagel into thin rounds, brush with olive oil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy and golden. Let them cool before assembling.