Entertaining should be fun and easy. The open-faced, Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese on a Bagel is a delicious party appetizer and a great crowd-pleaser. It's also very simple to make. When family and friends are visiting, and you don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, this timesaving recipe is perfect. Your guests will love the appetizers; you wont have any leftovers. Don't forget the wine, the beverage is important too.

Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese on a Bagel.

1 package of cream cheese.

Handful of watercress leaves, or parsley.

3/4 cup chopped green onions.

1 tsp honey.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper.

12 mini bagels.

8 oz smoked salmon.

Sundried tomatoes, finely chopped.

1) Combine cream cheese and watercress (or parsley) in a food processor. Mix well. Stir in green onions and honey. Add salt and pepper to taste.

2) Cut the 12 mini bagels in half lengthwise. Spread a generous layer of watercress cream mixture on each half. Place a folded piece of smoked salmon on top of the watercress cream. Garnish with small pieces of sundried tomatoes.

Serve with chilled Gewurztraminer.

WINE SELECTION.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2004 Gewurztraminer.

Gewurztraminer is a fantastic white wine - a nice accompaniment with salmon appetizers and creamy cheeses. It's distinct taste and aroma has hints of rose, passion fruit, orange blossom, lychee, spices, melon, and ripe pear.

Zesty and refreshing, Gewurztraminer's lively citrus and spiced flavors relax the bite of the green onions and the sharpness of the watercress cream. The wine has a mildly sweet which comes from the melon and ripe pear. That sweetness blends nicely with the smoky flavor of the salmon to produce an overall sophisticated fruity flavor that entices the palate.

For the main course, Gewurztraminer also pairs nicely with just about anything. You can serve it with beef, baked chicken, grilled pork chops, or barbecued ribs. Enjoy.

Makes 24 pieces.

Learn more about this author, Audrina Kingston.
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