Smoked Sardine & Lemon Bagel (Quick, Protein-Rich Lunch)

Toasted bagel topped with smoked sardines, avocado, cucumber and lemon cream cheese.

This smoked sardine and lemon bagel is a simple yet flavour-packed meal that comes together in minutes. Creamy lemon-infused cream cheese forms the base, layered with buttery avocado, crisp cucumber and smoky sardines for a beautifully balanced bite.


Sardines are one of the most underrated ingredients in the kitchen. They’re incredibly nutritious, packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals, while also bringing deep savoury flavour to simple dishes.


Finished with fresh herbs and a touch of lemon zest, this bagel feels fresh, vibrant and satisfying , perfect for a quick lunch, relaxed brunch or elevated snack.

Smoked Sardine & Lemon Bagel (Quick, Protein-Rich Lunch)

A smoked sardine bagel layered with lemon cream cheese, avocado, cucumber and fresh herbs. A quick, nutrient-rich lunch.

Author
Healthythandi
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
3 minutes
Servings
1
Cuisine
Modern Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 1 fresh bagel (sesame, plain or wholewheat)
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese (or vegan cream cheese)
  • Zest of ½ lemon
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 2–3 smoked sardines, drained and patted dry
  • ½ avocado, sliced
  • 4–5 cucumber ribbons or thin slices
  • Very thin slices of red onion
  • Fresh dill or parsley, chopped
  • Pinch black pepper
  • Chilli flakes
  • Smoked paprika

Directions

  1. Slice the bagel in half and toast until golden and slightly crisp.
  2. In a small bowl mix the cream cheese with lemon zest and lemon juice until smooth.
  3. Spread the lemon cream cheese generously over both halves of the toasted bagel.
  4. Add cucumber ribbons, avocado slices and smoked sardines.
  5. Top with red onion slices and fresh herbs.
  6. Season with black pepper and optional chilli flakes or smoked paprika.
  7. Serve immediately with an extra wedge of lemon if desired.
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