S&l Big Brunch Bagel Recipe

Prepare bagels

Slice the 2 bagels horizontally. Lightly brush cut sides with 1 tbs olive oil or spread a thin layer of butter. Toast in a 400°F (200°C) oven on a baking sheet or in a skillet cut-side down for 4–6 minutes until golden and crisp.

Make lemon cream cheese

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup cream cheese, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth and spreadable. Taste and adjust seasoning. Reserve.

Scramble eggs

Crack 4 eggs into a bowl, add 3 tbs milk, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Whisk until blended and slightly frothy. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low, add 1 tsp butter or oil and swirl to coat. Pour in eggs and let sit 10–15 seconds, then gently stir with a rubber spatula, folding the curds until just set but still moist. Remove from heat while slightly underdone (they will finish cooking from residual heat).

Warm proteins (optional ham)

If using ham or Canadian bacon, add to the skillet for 30–60 seconds per side until warmed and slightly browned. Remove and set aside. Keep smoked salmon cold until assembly.

Thinly slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds. Thinly slice the red onion into rings and separate. Rinse and pat dry capers to remove excess brine if desired. Roughly toss 1 cup mixed greens with a tiny pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil if you like.

Build the bagels

Spread about 2 tbs lemon cream cheese evenly onto each toasted bagel bottom (about 1 tbs per bottom). Divide the scrambled eggs between the two bagels (about 1/2 the eggs on each). Top eggs with warmed ham (if using) or place 3 oz smoked salmon on each bagel. Add tomato slices (2–3 per bagel) and scatter red onion rings and 1 tsp capers per sandwich. Add a small handful (about 1/2 cup) of mixed greens and sprinkle 1 tsp everything seasoning over the top.

Garnish & serve

If using dill, sprinkle 1 tbs chopped dill over the salmon. Add hot sauce to taste if desired. Place bagel tops on and press lightly. Serve immediately while eggs are warm and bagels are crisp.