Smoked Salmon Bagel with Whipped Cottage Cheese

A smoked salmon bagel is a classic combination-creamy, savory, and full of fresh flavor. This easy-to-make brunch favorite is perfect for holidays like Easter, Mother's Day, and even Christmas morning. With protein-rich salmon, whipped cottage cheese, and fresh herbs, it's a healthyish comfort food that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

A Fresh Twist on the Classic Smoked Salmon Bagel

Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch or just craving something a little extra special, this smoked salmon bagel recipe is simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. We've put a lighter, fresher spin on the traditional version by using whipped cottage cheese instead of cream cheese. It's rich in protein, lower in fat, and adds a light, tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with smoked salmon.

From the silky, omega-3-rich smoked salmon to the crisp veggies and fresh herbs, every bite is full of flavor and good-for-you ingredients. This recipe is quick to prepare, easy to adapt, and perfect for spring and summer gatherings or a quick weekday meal.

Scroll down for our step-by-step photos, chef's tips, and some fun Mediterranean-inspired flavor variations!

Jump to:

• A Fresh Twist on the Classic Smoked Salmon Bagel
• Ingredients You'll Need
• How to Make a Smoked Salmon Bagel
• Pickled Red Onions
• How to Make a Mediterranean-Inspired Smoked Salmon Bagel
• Flavor Variations and Dietary Customizations
• Serving Suggestions
• Make Ahead and Storage Tips
• Want More Recipes Like This?
• FAQ's
• More Breakfast & Brunch Ideas
• Smoked Salmon Bagel with Whipped Cottage Cheese

Ingredients You'll Need

Chefs Note : This recipe calls for just a handful of fresh ingredients, each one adding flavor, texture, or nutrition to your smoked salmon bagel, these are what you will need:

• Bagels - Choose plain, sesame, or everything bagels as your base. Toasted for crunch and warmth.
• Smoked salmon - Silky, savory, and full of flavor. A great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein-read more about its nutrition benefits here.

Chef's Tip: Always choose high-quality smoked salmon. Wild-caught varieties tend to be firmer and more flavorful.

• Cottage cheese - Or try our Lemon Dill Whipped Cottage Cheese. It's high in protein and a lighter alternative to traditional cream cheese.
• Baby herb salad leaves - Add a fresh, peppery bite and vibrant color.
• Cucumber - Crisp and cooling, offering contrast in texture.
• Pickled red onions - Bring tang and a touch of sweetness (or use raw red onion for a little more bite).
• Capers - Briny and bold, balancing the richness of the salmon and cheese.
• Lemon wedges - For squeezing over the top to brighten the whole dish.
• Fresh dill - Classic with smoked salmon and adds a herby finish.

See the recipe card for quantities

How to Make a Smoked Salmon Bagel

Tested in our kitchen and loved by our readers-this recipe is quick, delicious, and perfect for a weekday breakfast or weekend brunch.

• Toast the bagel halves until golden brown.
• Spread a generous layer of whipped cottage cheese on each toasted bagel half.

Chef's Tip: Let the bagels cool slightly before spreading to prevent melting the cottage cheese.

• Layer smoked salmon evenly across the bagels.
• Top with baby herb salad leaves, cucumber slices, and pickled red onions.
• Sprinkle capers on top and garnish with fresh dill.
• Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

How to Make a Mediterranean-Inspired Smoked Salmon Bagel

Give your bagel a twist by swapping in a toasted pita, adding our Middle Eastern pickles, or topping it with sumac onions. The salty-sour combo pairs beautifully with creamy cheese and salmon. 

Want more ideas? Try: our creamy lemon tahini yogurt sauce or hummus instead of cottage cheese and garnish your Mediterranean 'bagel' with chopped flat leaf parsley and a sprinkle of za'atar.

Flavor Variations and Dietary Customizations

Dietary Customizations

• Make it Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free bagels or serve open-faced on gluten-free toast.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Swap the cottage cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese, avocado smash or a whipped tofu spread.
• Add More Protein: Top with a poached, scrambled or soft-boiled egg for a heartier option.

Swaps & Additions

• Try Herb Cream Cheese: If you're not into cottage cheese, a whipped herb cream cheese also works beautifully.
• Bagel Alternatives: Use whole grain bread, sourdough, pita, or crispbread for a different base.
• Avocado Addition: Add a few slices of ripe avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Go Spicy: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a few slices of pickled jalapeños for a kick.
• Extra Crunch: Top with thinly sliced radishes or a handful of sprouts for texture.

Serving Suggestions

These smoked salmon bagels are perfect for:

• Brunch Gatherings: Set up a bagel bar with various toppings so guests can build their own. Want more hosting ideas? Check out our Smoked Salmon Brunch Board!
• Quick Lunches: Pair with a simple mixed greens salad.
• Special Occasion Breakfasts: Serve with fresh fruit, juice, or a mimosa for something special.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Chefs Tip : This smoked salmon bagel recipe is best when everything is fresh, but you can still get a head start with a little prep.

• Make Ahead: You can make the cottage cheese up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Slice the cucumbers, prep the herbs, and make your pickled red onions a day ahead of time too. For easy assembly, keep all toppings stored separately in airtight containers and toast the bagels just before serving.
• Storage: While assembled bagels are best eaten right away (to prevent sogginess), leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. If storing assembled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Not Freezer-Friendly: Fresh vegetables and the whipped cottage cheese don't freeze well. You can tightly wrap the smoked salmon in cling wrap and freeze it for 1 - 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator.

Want More Recipes Like This?

Love easy, seasonal recipes like this one? Join our newsletter for fresh ideas straight from our kitchen-plus exclusive tips, behind-the-scenes updates, and our favorite wine pairings. Sign up below and never miss a delicious moment.

FAQ's

More Breakfast & Brunch Ideas

This smoked salmon bagel is a go-to favorite in our kitchen-quick, easy, and full of flavor. We hope it becomes one of your favorites too! 

If you try it, we'd love for you to leave a comment or rating below. Don't forget to pin this recipe for later and share your creations with us!

Print

The nutrition is an estimate only. It was calculated using Nutrifox, an online nutrition calculator.