3 Variations On Bagels With Lox & Schmear To Up Your Sunday Brunch Game

Because the classic bagel with lox and schmear is already perfection, these three recipes keep the essence but add unique twists to shake up your brunch game.

The Everything Deluxe (Classic, But Better)

For those who love tradition with a little extra oomph.

Ingredients:

• 1 everything bagel, toasted
• 2 tbsp whipped cream cheese
• 3 oz smoked salmon (lox)
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ small cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp capers
• 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Spread cream cheese generously over both halves of the toasted bagel.
2. Layer smoked salmon, red onion, and cucumber slices.
3. Sprinkle with capers, fresh dill, and lemon zest.
4. Finish with a crack of black pepper and enjoy!

The Mediterranean Bagel (A Sunny Twist)

A bright, tangy variation with Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 sesame bagel, toasted
• 2 tbsp whipped cream cheese
• 3 oz smoked salmon
• 1 tbsp kalamata olives, chopped
• ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp za’atar or dried oregano
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Spread cream cheese over the toasted bagel.
2. Layer smoked salmon, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives.
3. Sprinkle with crumbled feta, za’atar, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

The Spicy New Yorker (For a Kick of Heat)

If you like a little spice with your brunch, this one’s for you.

Ingredients:

• 1 plain or poppy seed bagel, toasted
• 2 tbsp scallion cream cheese (or mix in 1 tbsp chopped scallions into regular cream cheese)
• 3 oz smoked salmon
• ½ small jalapeño, thinly sliced (or use pickled jalapeños for a milder kick)
• 1 tsp sriracha or hot honey drizzle
• 1 tsp everything bagel seasoning
• 1 tsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Spread scallion cream cheese over the toasted bagel.
2. Layer smoked salmon and jalapeño slices.
3. Drizzle with sriracha or hot honey for a spicy-sweet contrast.
4. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning and fresh cilantro.

Whichever version you choose, you can’t go wrong—just make sure to serve with a strong coffee and maybe a side of latkes for the ultimate Jewish brunch experience! —Vita Daily