Lox Platter Recipe

Wash the tomatoes and cucumber. Pat dry.

Slice tomatoes

Using a sharp knife, cut the 2 medium tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange in a single layer on a plate and lightly season with 1/2 teaspoon of the sea salt and a pinch of black pepper if desired.

Prepare cucumber

Trim the cucumber ends and thinly slice lengthwise or into 1/8-inch rounds, depending on presentation preference. Place in a small pile or fan on the platter.

Shave onion

Peel the small red onion and cut in half. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice very thin rings. Separate into individual rings and place in a small bowl of cold water for 5 minutes to soften sharpness, then drain and pat dry.

Wash and pick dill sprigs. Cut the lemon into 6–8 wedges for serving.

If using bagels, slice each bagel in half and optionally toast lightly. If using sliced bread, arrange toasted or untoasted slices on the board.

Place softened cream cheese in a small bowl and whip briefly with a spoon so it’s easy to spread. Put butter and mustard in small serving bowls if using.

Choose a large platter or wooden board that will comfortably fit all components. Start by arranging the lox: fold or loosely roll slices into ribbons or gentle rosettes and place them in one section of the platter. Scatter 1 tablespoon of capers lightly over the lox and tuck a few dill sprigs nearby. Reserve remaining capers for general garnish.

Next arrange the corned beef in a loose fan or stacked slices next to the lox, leaving space between meats so guests can see each item.

Arrange the smoked turkey in a separate section, folding slices attractively into small bundles or rolls.

Place the thinly sliced beef tongue on the platter in another section, slightly overlapping slices and fanning them for visual appeal.

Add the sliced tomatoes and cucumber slices in dedicated sections or in small stacks near the meats so guests can pair them as desired.

Place the drained shaved onion in a small ramekin on the platter or in a neat pile on the board to keep its flavor contained.

Scatter remaining capers across the platter as desired. Tuck lemon wedges and remaining dill sprigs around the edges for color and to make it easy for guests to squeeze over the lox.

Arrange the bagel halves or bread slices and the bowls of cream cheese, butter and mustard near the platter. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and the black pepper over tomato slices or leave to guests to season themselves.

Optional: Add small serving tongs or forks for meats and fish, and small spoons for condiments to make self-service tidy.