Preparation

1. Step 1

   Cut the bagel in half and lightly toast, then cool to room temperature. Spread each toast generously with cream cheese.

2. Step 2

   Distribute the sardines among the toasts. Cut large sardines in half lengthwise; leave small sardines whole.

3. Step 3

   Sprinkle each toast lightly with salt and grind pepper directly over the sandwiches. Garnish with cilantro and slivered scallions.

4. Step 4

   Serve sandwiches open-faced, with radish and a lemon wedge.

Ingredients

Yield: 2 to 4 servings

• Pumpernickel bagel

• Whipped cream cheese

• 1(4.5-ounce) tin oil-packed sardines

• Salt and black pepper

• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced scallions or chives

• 1 sliced radish for serving

• Lemon wedges, for serving