Bagel Bites with Smoked Salmon and Leek Spread

Name: Bagel Bites with Smoked Salmon and Leek Spread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bites
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 leek (white and light green parts only, finely chopped); 225 grams cream cheese (at room temperature); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); Salt and pepper to taste; 6 mini bagels (halved); 120 grams smoked salmon (thinly sliced); Fresh dill for garnish

30 min 12 bites Easy

All Recipes

Delicious mini bagel bites topped with smoked salmon and a creamy leek spread, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or brunch treat.

Prep

20 min

Cook

10 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Bagel bites with smoked salmon and leek spread are a delightful combination of flavours and textures, making them a perfect addition to any appetizer spread. The smooth, creamy leek spread pairs beautifully with the rich, smoky taste of the salmon, creating a sophisticated dish that is both easy to make and impressive to serve. Whether you're hosting a brunch or looking for a quick and elegant appetizer, these bagel bites offer a unique twist on the classic bagel and lox. The mini bagels provide a perfect base, while the leek spread adds a subtle depth that complements the salmon perfectly.

Instructions

Prepare the leek spread

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped leek and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Pro tip: Ensure leeks are thoroughly washed to remove any grit.

Mix the leek spread

In a bowl, combine cooled leeks, cream cheese, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro tip: Use a hand mixer for a creamier texture.

Toast the bagel halves

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place bagel halves on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 minutes or until lightly golden.

Pro tip: For an extra crispy texture, lightly brush bagel halves with olive oil before toasting.

Assemble the bagel bites

Spread a generous amount of leek mixture on each toasted bagel half.

Pro tip: Use a knife or a small spatula for even spreading.

Add smoked salmon

Top each bagel half with a slice of smoked salmon. Ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C by probing the thickest part of the slice. The salmon should appear opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Pro tip: Fold the salmon slice neatly for a visually appealing presentation.

Garnish and serve

Garnish each bite with a sprig of fresh dill and serve immediately.

Pro tip: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra zing.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, high-quality smoked salmon for the best taste.
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Toast the bagel bites for a crisp texture.
Garnish with fresh dill for an added burst of flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of smoked salmon for this recipe?

Use high-quality, thinly sliced smoked salmon for the best flavour and presentation.

Can I make the leek spread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the leek spread a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How long do these bagel bites last?

These bagel bites are best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.

Can I use regular-sized bagels instead?

Yes, you can use regular-sized bagels and cut them into smaller pieces for serving.

What can I use instead of leeks?

You can substitute leeks with finely chopped green onions if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

These bagel bites with smoked salmon and leek spread can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a day. Assemble them just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture. Pair with a crisp white wine or champagne for a classy appetizer experience. For storage, keep the assembled bites covered in the refrigerator and consume within a day for optimal freshness. The leek spread can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.