Everything Bagel Seasoning: Beyond the Bagel – Recipes & Ideas
Everything bagel seasoning. Just the name conjures images of perfectly chewy, seed-studded bagels, doesn’t it? But this glorious blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt is so much more versatile than just a topping for your morning bread. In this article, we’ll explore the amazing world of everything bagel seasoning, offering a range of delicious and easy recipes that will transform your cooking and have you reaching for this pantry staple every day.
## What is Everything Bagel Seasoning?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s quickly recap what makes everything bagel seasoning so special. It’s a simple yet powerful mix of:
* **Sesame Seeds:** Adds nutty flavor and crunch.
* **Poppy Seeds:** Offers a slightly earthy taste and visual appeal.
* **Dried Garlic:** Provides a pungent, savory element.
* **Dried Onion:** Contributes a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
* **Flaky Sea Salt:** Enhances all the other flavors and adds a satisfying crunch.
This combination creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors that elevates everything it touches. You can easily find it pre-made in most grocery stores, or even better, you can make your own at home! Homemade versions allow you to customize the ratios to your liking and ensure the freshest ingredients.
## Making Your Own Everything Bagel Seasoning
Making your own everything bagel seasoning is incredibly simple and allows for customization. Here’s a basic recipe:
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or black, or a mix)
* 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
* 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
* 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
* 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (like Maldon or kosher salt)
**Instructions:**
1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
**Tips for Customization:**
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Add some herbs:** Dried rosemary or thyme can add an interesting twist.
* **Adjust the salt:** If you prefer a less salty seasoning, reduce the amount of salt.
* **Make it sweeter:** A tiny pinch of brown sugar can enhance the savory flavors.
## Recipes Featuring Everything Bagel Seasoning
Now for the fun part – the recipes! These ideas showcase the versatility of everything bagel seasoning and will inspire you to use it in unexpected ways.
### 1. Everything Bagel Avocado Toast
This is the classic for a reason! It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 slice of your favorite bread (toasted)
* ½ avocado, mashed
* Everything bagel seasoning
* Red pepper flakes (optional)
* Lemon juice (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Toast the bread to your desired level of crispness.
2. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toast.
3. Generously sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
4. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
**Variations:**
* **Add an egg:** Top with a fried, poached, or scrambled egg for extra protein.
* **Everything Bagel Tomato:** Add a slice of tomato under the avocado.
* **Add sprouts:** Sprinkle some sprouts on top for added nutrients and texture.
### 2. Everything Bagel Chicken
This recipe transforms plain chicken breasts into a flavor-packed meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Press the everything bagel seasoning evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
**Serving Suggestions:**
* Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
* Pair with a side salad for a light and healthy meal.
* Slice and add to a sandwich or wrap.
### 3. Everything Bagel Salmon
Similar to the chicken recipe, this adds a delightful crust to salmon fillets.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 salmon fillets (skin on or off)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Lemon wedges, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Press the everything bagel seasoning evenly onto the top of the salmon fillets.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
**Tips for Perfect Salmon:**
* **Don’t overcook:** Salmon dries out easily, so be sure to check it frequently.
* **Use high-quality salmon:** The better the salmon, the better the flavor.
* **Skin-on or skin-off:** If you prefer crispy skin, cook skin-side down for the first few minutes.
### 4. Everything Bagel Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables with everything bagel seasoning adds a savory and flavorful touch.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound of your favorite vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, carrots, potatoes, etc.), cut into bite-sized pieces
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, everything bagel seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned, flipping halfway through.
**Vegetable Combination Ideas:**
* Broccoli and cauliflower
* Brussels sprouts and bacon (omit salt if using bacon)
* Carrots and potatoes
* Sweet potatoes and onions
### 5. Everything Bagel Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled eggs with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
* ¼ cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Everything bagel seasoning, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise and remove the yolks.
2. In a small bowl, mash the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
4. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
**Tips for Perfect Deviled Eggs:**
* **Use older eggs:** Older eggs peel more easily.
* **Don’t overcook the eggs:** Overcooked eggs will have a green ring around the yolk.
* **Chill before serving:** Chilling allows the flavors to meld together.
### 6. Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Dip
A simple and delicious dip for vegetables, crackers, or even bagel chips!
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
* 1 tablespoon milk or cream (optional, for thinning)
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in the everything bagel seasoning.
3. If desired, add milk or cream to thin the dip to your desired consistency.
4. Serve with vegetables, crackers, or bagel chips.
**Variations:**
* **Add herbs:** Fresh chives or dill can add a fresh flavor.
* **Spice it up:** A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat.
* **Make it sweeter:** A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can balance the savory flavors.
### 7. Everything Bagel Popcorn
A surprisingly delicious and addictive snack!
**Ingredients:**
* 8 cups popped popcorn
* 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
**Instructions:**
1. Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle with melted butter or olive oil.
3. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning and toss to coat evenly.
4. Serve immediately.
**Tips for Perfect Popcorn:**
* **Use freshly popped popcorn:** Stale popcorn will not be as good.
* **Don’t use too much butter or oil:** Too much will make the popcorn soggy.
* **Toss well:** Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
### 8. Everything Bagel Hummus
Take your hummus to the next level with this simple addition.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
* ¼ cup tahini
* ¼ cup lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning, for topping
**Instructions:**
1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Process until smooth and creamy, adding a little water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.
4. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
5. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
### 9. Everything Bagel Fried Egg Sandwich
A simple yet satisfying breakfast or lunch option.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 slices of your favorite bread
* 1 egg
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1 slice of cheese (optional)
* Everything bagel seasoning
**Instructions:**
1. Toast the bread to your desired level of crispness.
2. Melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Crack the egg into the skillet and cook to your desired level of doneness (sunny-side up, over easy, over medium, or over hard).
4. If using cheese, place it on top of the egg during the last minute of cooking.
5. Place the egg on one slice of toast and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
6. Top with the other slice of toast and serve immediately.
### 10. Everything Bagel Seasoned Nuts
A savory and crunchy snack that’s perfect for parties or gatherings.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups of your favorite nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans, walnuts, etc.)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
* Salt to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a medium bowl, toss the nuts with olive oil, everything bagel seasoning, and salt.
4. Spread the nuts in a single layer on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the nuts are lightly toasted and fragrant, stirring halfway through.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
### 11. Everything Bagel Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner rolls with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
**Ingredients:**
* Your favorite dinner roll recipe or store-bought rolls
* 1 egg, beaten
* Everything bagel seasoning
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare your dinner roll dough according to the recipe instructions or purchase store-bought rolls.
2. Before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg.
3. Sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning.
4. Bake according to the recipe instructions or package directions.
### 12. Everything Bagel Compound Butter
A flavorful butter that adds a delicious touch to bread, vegetables, or grilled meats.
**Ingredients:**
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in the everything bagel seasoning.
3. Place the butter on a sheet of plastic wrap and roll it into a log shape.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Slice and serve on bread, vegetables, or grilled meats.
### 13. Everything Bagel Scrambled Eggs
Adding Everything Bagel Seasoning to scrambled eggs is a quick and easy way to enhance their flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large eggs
* 1 tablespoon milk or cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon Everything Bagel Seasoning
* 1 teaspoon butter
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
2. Melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet.
4. As the eggs begin to set, gently push the cooked egg towards the center of the pan, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath.
5. Continue cooking until the eggs are set to your desired consistency.
6. Sprinkle with Everything Bagel Seasoning before serving.
### 14. Everything Bagel Quiche
Give your quiche a savory twist with everything bagel seasoning.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pre-made pie crust
* 6 large eggs
* 1 cup heavy cream or milk
* ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, or your favorite)
* ½ cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled (optional)
* ¼ cup chopped vegetables (onions, peppers, spinach, etc.) (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the pie crust in a pie dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream or milk, cheese, bacon or sausage (if using), vegetables (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
5. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
### 15. Everything Bagel Sweet Potato Fries
A healthier and flavorful alternative to regular fries.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, everything bagel seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fries are tender and slightly crispy, flipping halfway through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
## Buying vs. Making: A Cost Comparison
While buying pre-made everything bagel seasoning is convenient, making your own can be more cost-effective, especially if you use it frequently. The cost will depend on the price of individual ingredients in your area, but generally, making a large batch yourself will save you money in the long run. Plus, you get the added benefit of controlling the ingredients and customizing the flavor to your liking.
## Storage Tips for Everything Bagel Seasoning
To keep your everything bagel seasoning fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A pantry or spice cabinet is ideal. Properly stored, it should last for several months.
## Beyond Recipes: Creative Uses for Everything Bagel Seasoning
The possibilities with everything bagel seasoning are endless. Here are a few more ideas to spark your creativity:
* **Rim your Bloody Mary glass:** Adds a savory and flavorful kick to your cocktail.
* **Sprinkle on cottage cheese or yogurt:** A surprisingly delicious and savory snack.
* **Add to salad dressings:** Gives your dressings a unique and interesting flavor.
* **Use as a dry rub for meats:** Adds a delicious crust to grilled or roasted meats.
* **Mix into bread dough:** Incorporate into your favorite bread recipe for an extra layer of flavor.
## Conclusion
Everything bagel seasoning is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can elevate a wide range of dishes. From simple avocado toast to more complex recipes like roasted chicken and quiche, the possibilities are endless. Whether you buy it pre-made or make your own, this pantry staple is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, go ahead and experiment – you might just discover your new favorite way to use everything bagel seasoning!