Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften. Meanwhile, thinly slice your cucumber (about ⅛-inch thick) and red onion (paper-thin). Pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rinse and drain the capers, and roughly chop the fresh dill. If using tomatoes, slice them thinly and set aside on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Herb Cream Cheese
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with half of the chopped fresh dill and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix well until fully incorporated and smooth. Add a few cracks of black pepper and taste – adjust seasoning as needed. This herb-infused cream cheese adds so much more flavor than plain!

Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Slice your bread or bagels in half horizontally. If you prefer toasted bread (highly recommended for preventing sogginess), lightly toast the cut sides until just golden – about 2-3 minutes in a toaster or under the broiler. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Let cool for a minute before assembling.

Step 4: Spread the Cream Cheese
Generously spread the herb cream cheese mixture on both halves of each piece of bread, creating an even layer that reaches all the way to the edges. This creates a moisture barrier and ensures flavor in every bite. Don’t be shy – a good cream cheese layer is essential to this sandwich!

Step 5: Layer the Smoked Salmon
Arrange the smoked salmon slices on the bottom half of each sandwich, slightly overlapping them to create full coverage. Fold or layer the salmon rather than stacking it flat – this creates a more appealing texture and ensures you taste the salmon in every bite. Use 2-3 ounces per sandwich depending on your preference.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables and Capers
Layer the thinly sliced cucumber over the salmon in a single layer. Add the paper-thin red onion slices, distributing them evenly (remember, a little goes a long way with raw onion). Scatter the drained capers over the top – about 1 tablespoon per sandwich. If using tomato slices or greens, add them now.

Step 7: Add Fresh Herbs and Finish
Sprinkle the remaining chopped fresh dill over the vegetables. Squeeze the remaining tablespoon of fresh lemon juice over the entire assembly. Add several cracks of freshly ground black pepper. If desired, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Step 8: Close and Serve
Gently place the top half of the bread on each sandwich, pressing down very lightly to help everything adhere. If using bagels or thick bread, you may want to slice the sandwich in half for easier eating. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side and perhaps a pickle spear for that authentic deli experience!