Smoked Salmon Bagel Board Assembled the Night Before
A make-ahead bagel board saves you from morning chaos when hosting brunch. You’ll arrange everything the night before, then just pull it from the fridge when guests arrive.
The key is keeping wet and dry ingredients properly separated so nothing gets soggy overnight.
How to Keep Components Fresh Overnight
Store cream cheese and capers in small bowls covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Keep sliced bagels in an airtight container at room temperature, not the fridge, which makes them stale. Arrange cucumber and onion slices on paper towels, then cover tightly.
Smoked salmon should stay in its original packaging until morning, then transfer to the board just before serving. This prevents the fish from developing an overly salty taste from extended air exposure.
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Smoked Salmon Bagel Board Assembled the Night Before
Equipment Needed
- Large wooden board or serving platter
- Small bowls for capers and cream cheese
- Sharp knife
- Plastic wrap
- Paper towels
- Airtight container
Instructions
- Prep bagels and vegetables: Slice bagels in half and store in an airtight container at room temperature. Slice cucumber into 1/4-inch rounds and red onion into thin half-moons. Pat cucumber dry with paper towels, then arrange both vegetables on a plate lined with paper towels. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Prepare accompaniments: Transfer softened cream cheese to a small serving bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Place capers in another small bowl and cover. Cut lemons into wedges and store in a covered container. Wash and dry dill sprigs, then wrap in slightly damp paper towels and refrigerate.
- Assemble board: Arrange bagel halves on your serving board, leaving space for other components. Place covered bowls of cream cheese and capers on the board. Add cucumber and onion slices to designated areas. Cover entire board tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Final assembly: Remove board from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving. Arrange smoked salmon in loose folds across the board. Add lemon wedges and scatter fresh dill sprigs over everything. Provide a pepper grinder on the side. The board is ready when all components are at proper serving temperature and the arrangement looks abundant and inviting.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1 serving)
