Smoked Salmon Platter Recipe

Make the whipped cream cheese

Allow cream cheese to come to room temperature (about 20–30 minutes) for easier whipping. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle/whisk, whip on medium-high speed until smooth and airy, about 2–3 minutes. Scrape down the sides once and whip another 20–30 seconds. Transfer to a serving bowl and chill briefly while preparing other components.

Toast bagels

Split the Utopia bagels (everything and plain) and toast them to desired doneness in a toaster or under a broiler. If you prefer buttered bagels, lightly spread unsalted butter on the cut sides while still warm so it melts. Arrange bagel halves on the serving board or platter just before serving so they stay warm and crisp.

Prepare vegetables and aromatics

Thinly slice the tomato and cucumber. Very thinly slice the red onion (if using). Roughly chop the fresh dill. Drain capers and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess brine.

Arrange the platter

On a large serving platter or wooden board, create separate piles for the smoked salmon, whipped cream cheese, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and capers. Fan the smoked salmon slices slightly so guests can easily lift them. Sprinkle the chopped dill over the salmon and vegetables. Place lemon wedges on the board and season the salmon and vegetables lightly with the measured black pepper. If desired, leave a small dish of extra capers and extra lemon on the side.

Final touches and serving

Label or indicate which bagels are everything and which are plain. Provide spreading knives or small spoons for the whipped cream cheese. Encourage guests to assemble bagel halves with a generous smear of whipped cream cheese, a fold of smoked salmon, a few cucumber or tomato slices, a few capers, and a squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately so bagels remain warm and cream cheese is soft and spreadable.