Golden toasted bagel generously layered with smooth cream cheese, customizable with fresh veggies, smoked salmon, or herbs
# What You Need:
→ Base
01 - 1 bagel (plain, sesame, whole wheat, or variety of choice)
→ Spread
02 - 2-3 tbsp cream cheese (plain or flavored: chive, vegetable, smoked salmon)
→ Optional Toppings
03 - Sliced cucumber
04 - Sliced tomato
05 - Smoked salmon
06 - Fresh dill sprigs
07 - Capers
08 - Red onion slices
# Directions:
01 - Cut the bagel horizontally through the center using a serrated knife to create two even halves.
02 - Place both bagel halves in the toaster or under a broiler. Toast for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy to the touch.
03 - While the bagel halves are still warm, spread a generous layer of cream cheese evenly across the cut surface of each half using a spreading knife.
04 - Layer optional toppings such as sliced cucumber, tomato, smoked salmon, fresh dill, capers, or red onion slices over the cream cheese as desired.
05 - Serve the bagel open-faced or closed while still warm for optimal texture and flavor.
