Unlocking Flavor Explosions: Delicious Recipes Using Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend. It’s a mouthful to say, but its impact on flavor is undeniable. This seemingly simple blend of sesame seeds (white and black), poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and sea salt flakes has become a pantry staple for home cooks and professional chefs alike. Its versatility allows it to elevate everything from simple avocado toast to complex savory dishes. But beyond the obvious, what else can you do with this magical mix? Let’s dive into some creative and incredibly tasty recipes that showcase the power of Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.
## Why Everyone’s Obsessed (And You Should Be Too!)
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s quickly recap why this seasoning blend is so popular:
* **Flavor Symphony:** The combination of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile that hits all the right notes – savory, salty, and subtly nutty.
* **Texture Boost:** The different seed sizes and textures add a delightful crunch to any dish.
* **Convenience:** It’s a one-stop-shop for flavor. Instead of reaching for multiple spices, you can add a generous sprinkle of this blend and instantly transform your food.
* **Versatility:** From sweet to savory, this seasoning blend works in a surprising number of applications.
Now, let’s get cooking!
## Recipes to Unleash the EBTB Magic
Here are some recipes that utilize Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend in innovative and delicious ways. We’ve included detailed instructions and tips to ensure your success.
### 1. EBTB Avocado Toast: The Classic, Elevated
We can’t talk about this seasoning blend without starting with avocado toast. But we’re not just talking about slapping some avocado on toast and sprinkling on the seasoning. We’re elevating the classic with a few simple additions.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or multigrain work well)
* 1 ripe avocado
* 1 tbsp lemon juice
* Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
* Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
* Everything bagel seasoning Cream cheese or whipped feta (optional)
* Microgreens or sprouts (optional, for garnish)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Toast the Bread:** Toast the bread to your desired level of crispness. Don’t burn it!
2. **Prepare the Avocado:** While the bread is toasting, mash the avocado in a small bowl. Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. **Assemble the Toast:** Spread the mashed avocado evenly onto the toasted bread. If using cream cheese or feta, spread it before the avocado.
4. **Season Generously:** Sprinkle a generous amount of Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend over the avocado toast. Don’t be shy!
5. **Add the Finishing Touches:** If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and garnish with microgreens or sprouts.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Egg-cellent Addition:** Top your avocado toast with a fried, poached, or scrambled egg for added protein and richness.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the avocado mash for extra heat.
* **Creamy Dreamy:** Instead of mashed avocado, try thinly sliced avocado with a smear of cream cheese or whipped feta.
* **Nutty Crunch:** Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and healthy fats.
* **Everything Bagel Seasoning Cream Cheese:** Blend the seasoning into softened cream cheese for an even more intense bagel flavor.
### 2. EBTB Roasted Vegetables: Flavorful and Healthy
This seasoning blend is a fantastic way to add flavor to roasted vegetables. It’s simple, healthy, and incredibly delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb of your favorite vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, asparagus, etc.)
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Wash and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. **Toss with Oil and Seasoning:** In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, sprinkle generously with Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
4. **Roast the Vegetables:** Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned. Flip the vegetables halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
5. **Serve:** Serve the roasted vegetables hot as a side dish or as part of a main course.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Sweet and Savory:** Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey to the vegetables before roasting for a touch of sweetness.
* **Lemon Zest:** Grate some lemon zest over the vegetables before roasting for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Garlic Power:** Add a clove or two of minced garlic to the vegetables before roasting for extra garlicky flavor.
* **Herbaceous Touch:** Add some fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the vegetables before roasting for an aromatic twist.
* **Parmesan Perfection:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the vegetables during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy and savory finish.
### 3. EBTB Chicken Cutlets: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy
Transform plain chicken cutlets into a flavorful and crispy delight with this simple recipe.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
* 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/4 inch). This will help them cook evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
2. **Set Up the Breading Station:** In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, the beaten egg, and the Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend. Make sure the seasoning blend is spread out evenly in the dish.
3. **Bread the Chicken:** Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with the seasoning blend. Press the seasoning blend onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
4. **Cook the Chicken:** Heat the olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken cutlets to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
5. **Serve:** Serve the chicken cutlets hot with your favorite sides.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Air Fryer Option:** For a healthier alternative, you can air fry the chicken cutlets instead of pan-frying. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
* **Panko Power:** Substitute the all-purpose flour with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
* **Lemon Butter Sauce:** Serve the chicken cutlets with a lemon butter sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
* **Creamy Dill Sauce:** Serve the chicken cutlets with a creamy dill sauce for a cool and refreshing flavor.
* **Parmesan Crust:** Mix grated Parmesan cheese with the seasoning blend for a cheesy and savory crust.
### 4. EBTB Salmon: A Seafood Sensation
This seasoning blend works wonders on salmon, adding a delicious crust and enhancing the natural flavors of the fish.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Salmon:** Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This will help them develop a crispy crust. Season with salt and pepper.
3. **Brush with Oil and Season:** Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil. Then, sprinkle generously with Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend. Press the seasoning blend onto the salmon to ensure it adheres well.
4. **Bake the Salmon:** Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. **Serve:** Serve the salmon hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Pan-Seared Perfection:** You can also pan-sear the salmon instead of baking it. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy. Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until cooked through.
* **Maple Glaze:** Brush the salmon with a maple glaze before adding the seasoning blend for a touch of sweetness.
* **Soy Sauce Marinade:** Marinate the salmon in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before adding the seasoning blend for an Asian-inspired flavor.
* **Dill Sauce:** Serve the salmon with a creamy dill sauce for a classic pairing.
* **Avocado Salsa:** Top the salmon with an avocado salsa for a fresh and vibrant flavor.
### 5. EBTB Popcorn: The Ultimate Snack Upgrade
Take your popcorn game to the next level with this simple and addictive recipe.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 cups popped popcorn (air-popped or stovetop)
* 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil
* Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
* Salt to taste (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn using your preferred method.
2. **Drizzle with Butter or Oil:** Drizzle the melted butter or olive oil over the popcorn.
3. **Season Generously:** Sprinkle generously with Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend. Toss the popcorn to ensure it is evenly coated.
4. **Salt to Taste:** Add salt to taste, if desired.
5. **Serve:** Serve the popcorn immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Nutritional Yeast:** Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy and savory flavor.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* **Garlic Powder:** Add garlic powder for extra garlicky flavor.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the popcorn for a cheesy and savory treat.
* **Caramel Corn Twist:** Drizzle caramel sauce over the popcorn before adding the seasoning blend for a sweet and salty combination.
### 6. EBTB Deviled Eggs: A Party Favorite, Elevated
Give your deviled eggs a flavorful twist with this simple addition.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
* 1 tbsp white vinegar
* Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Paprika for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Eggs:** Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise. Gently remove the yolks and place them in a bowl.
2. **Make the Filling:** Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and white vinegar. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
3. **Add the EBTB Magic:** Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend into the yolk mixture.
4. **Fill the Eggs:** Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
5. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with paprika and a little extra Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend for garnish, if desired.
6. **Chill:** Chill the deviled eggs in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Avocado Deviled Eggs:** Replace some of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a healthier and creamier filling.
* **Spicy Deviled Eggs:** Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the yolk mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Bacon Deviled Eggs:** Crumble cooked bacon over the deviled eggs for a savory and smoky flavor.
* **Pickled Relish:** Add a tablespoon of sweet or dill pickled relish to the filling for a touch of tang.
* **Chives:** Garnish with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor.
### 7. EBTB Compound Butter: Flavor-Packed Spread
This compound butter is incredibly versatile and can be used to add flavor to bread, vegetables, steak, and more.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 2-3 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
* Optional additions: Chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, dill), minced garlic, lemon zest
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a bowl, combine the softened butter and Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend. If using, add any other desired ingredients, such as herbs, garlic, or lemon zest.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
3. **Shape the Butter:** Place the butter mixture on a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape the butter into a log or desired shape.
4. **Chill:** Wrap the butter tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
5. **Serve:** Slice the compound butter into rounds and serve on bread, vegetables, steak, or any other dish that needs a flavor boost.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Honey Butter:** Add a tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
* **Chili Garlic Butter:** Add minced garlic and chili flakes for a spicy and savory butter.
* **Lemon Herb Butter:** Add lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs for a bright and aromatic butter.
* **Smoked Paprika Butter:** Add smoked paprika for a smoky and savory butter.
* **Maple Pecan Butter:** Add maple syrup and chopped pecans for a sweet and nutty butter.
### 8. EBTB Hummus: A Flavorful Dip
Elevate your homemade hummus with the irresistible flavors of Everything But The Bagel seasoning.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
* 1/4 cup tahini
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 cup water, or more as needed
* Salt to taste
* 2-3 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend, plus more for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and water.
2. **Process Until Smooth:** Process until smooth and creamy, adding more water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. **Season:** Season with salt and stir in the Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.
4. **Serve:** Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with more Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.
5. **Enjoy:** Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Roasted Red Pepper Hummus:** Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers for a smoky and sweet flavor.
* **Spicy Hummus:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus:** Add 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy and rich flavor.
* **Beet Hummus:** Add 1/2 cup of cooked beets for a vibrant color and earthy flavor.
* **White Bean Hummus:** Substitute chickpeas with white beans for a different flavor profile.
### 9. EBTB Cream Cheese Dip: Quick & Easy Appetizer
This incredibly simple dip is perfect for parties or a quick snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 2-3 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
* Optional: Chopped fresh chives, green onions, or parsley
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine:** In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.
2. **Mix:** Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
3. **Optional Additions:** Stir in chopped chives, green onions, or parsley if desired.
4. **Chill (Optional):** Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, although you can serve immediately.
5. **Serve:** Serve with crackers, vegetables, or bagel chips.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Sour Cream:** Substitute half the cream cheese with sour cream for a tangier dip.
* **Garlic Powder:** Add a pinch of garlic powder for more flavor.
* **Everything Bagel Topped Bagel Bites:** Cut bagels into bite-sized pieces, top with the cream cheese dip, and broil for a few minutes until warm and bubbly.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
* **Sweet & Savory:** Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for a surprising twist.
### 10. EBTB Bagel Dogs: Homemade Delight
Recreate the classic bagel dog at home with an extra flavorful twist.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (8) hot dogs
* 1 package (14-16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
* Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare Dough:** Unroll the pizza dough or crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into 8 equal rectangles.
3. **Wrap Hot Dogs:** Place a hot dog on one end of each dough rectangle and roll it up, pinching the seams to seal.
4. **Egg Wash and Season:** Place the wrapped hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle generously with Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the hot dogs are heated through.
6. **Serve:** Serve hot with your favorite condiments.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Cheese Please:** Add a strip of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite) inside the dough before rolling it up.
* **Pretzel Dogs:** Use pretzel dough instead of pizza dough for a different flavor and texture.
* **Spicy Dogs:** Use spicy hot dogs or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dough.
* **Mini Bagel Dogs:** Cut the dough into smaller pieces and use cocktail-sized hot dogs for mini bagel dogs, perfect for appetizers.
* **Dipping Sauces:** Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as mustard, ketchup, cheese sauce, or ranch dressing.
## Beyond the Recipes: Creative Uses for EBTB
The possibilities with Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend are truly endless. Here are some additional ideas to spark your culinary creativity:
* **Egg Scramble Enhancer:** Add a sprinkle to your scrambled eggs or omelets for extra flavor and texture.
* **Salad Dressing Booster:** Mix it into your favorite salad dressing for a savory twist.
* **Pasta Salad Upgrade:** Sprinkle it over pasta salad for added flavor and crunch.
* **Soup Topping:** Use it as a garnish for soups and stews.
* **Bread Dipping Oil:** Add it to your bread dipping oil for a flavorful appetizer.
* **Meat Rub:** Use it as a dry rub for chicken, pork, or beef before grilling or roasting.
* **Tuna Salad Boost:** Add it to your tuna salad for extra flavor and texture.
* **Stuffed Mushrooms:** Mix it into the filling for stuffed mushrooms.
* **Grated cheese mix-in:** Mix into freshly grated parmesan for a delicious and easy flavor enhancer.
## Making Your Own EBTB Blend (If You Don’t Have Trader Joe’s Nearby)
If you don’t have access to Trader Joe’s, don’t worry! You can easily make your own Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend at home. Here’s a simple recipe:
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
* 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
* 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
* 2 tablespoons dried minced garlic
* 2 tablespoons dried minced onion
* 1 tablespoon sea salt flakes
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. **Store:** Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Adjust to Taste:** Adjust the amounts of each ingredient to your liking.
* **Toast the Seeds:** Toast the sesame and poppy seeds lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
* **Add More Garlic or Onion:** If you love garlic or onion, add more to the blend.
* **Use Different Salts:** Experiment with different types of salt, such as kosher salt or pink Himalayan salt.
## Conclusion: Embrace the EBTB Flavor Revolution
Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend is more than just a seasoning; it’s a flavor revolution in a jar. Its versatility, convenience, and delicious flavor profile make it a must-have for any home cook. So, go ahead, experiment with these recipes, and let your creativity run wild. You’ll be amazed at how this simple blend can transform your everyday meals into culinary masterpieces. Happy cooking!