Hey, folks! Today, we’re diving into one of my all-time favorite brunch items—the smoked salmon bagel. This isn’t just any smoked salmon bagel; we’re replicating the iconic Lester’s Deli style, right from the comfort of our kitchens. If you love a good blend of flavors and textures that dance around in your mouth like a well-orchestrated ballet, then stick around. And hey, if you want to get your hands on the exact ingredients I’m using, I’ve got links for you to snag them without stepping out your door. Let’s get into the delicious details!

Ingredients

• Bagels: I’m talking about those beautifully toasted, sesame seed-studded bagels that just scream “good morning!” Grab your St-Viateur Bagels here!
• Smoked Salmon: Thin, silky slices that are the heart of this recipe. Get your smoked salmon here!
• Cream Cheese: Rich and creamy, it’s the glue that holds all the good stuff on your bagel.
• Onion: Thinly sliced for that sharp, crisp kick.
• Tomato Slices: Bright and sweet, they add the perfect contrast.
• Capers: These tiny green gems add a burst of briny tartness.
• Olives: For that extra depth of savory flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Sharp knife
• Toaster or oven (for those who like their bagel crispy)
• Spoon or spreader

Preparation Steps

Getting Your Bagels Ready – Toasting Your Bagels

First things first, let’s talk bagels. You can’t just use any bagel; it has to be good quality with a nice, crispy crust and a soft inside. I use St-Viateur Bagels because they’ve got that authentic Montreal flavor that’s hard to beat. Slice them in half and pop them into the toaster or under the broiler for a minute or two. You want them warm and slightly crispy. Buy the best bagels around here!

Spreading the Cream Cheese

While those are toasting, let’s prep our cream cheese. Nothing beats the creaminess of a good schmear, right? Take your cream cheese and whip it up in a bowl until it’s nice and spreadable. This makes it easier to get a smooth, even layer on your bagel halves. Generously slather that on each half; don’t skimp here, folks.

Layering the Smoked Salmon

Now for the star of the show: the smoked salmon. Drape those beautiful, thin slices over the cream cheese. I get mine from Lester’s because it’s perfectly smoked with just the right amount of salt. Click here to get your salmon on!

Adding the Crunch and Punch

Onions and Tomatoes

Here’s where we build the layers. Start with your onions—make sure they’re thinly sliced so they add flavor without overpowering. Then, lay on those ripe tomato slices. They should be just thick enough to give you a burst of juiciness with each bite.

Capers and Olives

Sprinkle on those capers and add a few olives. The capers bring a tangy pop, which perfectly complements the fatty richness of the salmon. Olives, on the other hand, add a subtle hint of bitterness and a nice chew.

Serving and Enjoyment

Put it all together, and you have a masterpiece of a bagel. It’s a symphony of flavors that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to look at. Serve this up with a side of crisp greens or fresh fruit, and you’ve got yourself a brunch worth bragging about.

Making a Lester’s Deli-style smoked salmon bagel at home is easier than you might think, especially with the right ingredients just a click away. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself on a lazy weekend morning, this recipe will bring a little piece of Montreal’s finest right to your table. Don’t forget to check out the links for all your ingredient needs. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!

Grab Your Ingredients Today

Craving this bagel now? Grab your ingredients here and let’s get cooking!

There you have it—a simple, delicious way to kickstart your morning or impress at your next brunch. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share the love (and the recipe)!