Smoked Salmon Platter With Cucumber, Dill And Red Onion Recipe

Soften and flavor cream cheese

Remove cream cheese from the refrigerator 15–20 minutes before assembling so it softens. In a small bowl, stir the softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (if using) to loosen to a spreadable consistency. Add 1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard and 1 teaspoon olive oil; mix until smooth and season lightly with 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Transfer to a serving bowl or pipe into a small pastry bag for neat presentation.

Toast bagels or bread slices until golden and keep warm on a plate covered with a clean towel.

Thinly slice the cucumber into rounds (about 1/8-inch thick). If using larger cucumbers, halve rounds or quarter lengthwise for easier handling. Pat slices dry on paper towel to remove excess moisture to prevent sogginess.

Separate red onion into thin rings; if the raw onion is strong, soak the rings in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry to mellow the bite.

Chop the dill leaves finely. Quarter the lemon and set aside. Rinse and drain capers to remove excess brine.

Select a large serving board or platter. Arrange the smoked salmon slices in one or two overlapping rows or loose rosettes on one side of the board, leaving room for accompaniments.

Place the bowl of cream cheese spread near the salmon. Arrange cucumber slices in a neat stack or fan next to the salmon. Pile the red onion rings nearby and sprinkle the drained capers in a small heap or spoon them into a small ramekin.

Scatter chopped dill over the salmon and the board; reserve a little dill for finishing. Add microgreens or baby arugula in a small cluster for color and freshness.

Place lemon wedges around the board. Drizzle 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil lightly over the salmon and cucumber, then finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt flakes (optional) and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper across the platter.

Serve the platter with toasted bagels or bread and small spoons or spreaders for the cream cheese. Recommend guests build bites: spread cream cheese on bread, top with cucumber, smoked salmon, a little red onion, capers, a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of dill.

If not serving immediately, cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 2 hours. Do not assemble more than a few hours ahead to preserve texture and freshness of cucumber and bread.