Bagels are a breakfast staple we can't resist, but they're definitely not just for the morning! There's a whole range of sides that can jazz up our beloved bagels.
We've experimented with everything from the classic cream cheese to more adventurous toppings that knock our socks off.
Take, for instance, those lazy Sunday brunches when we're feeling a bit fancy. We love throwing together different spreads and sides to create a feast fit for a king.
It's all about the flavor and the fun.
So let's chat about the best accompaniments that can turn any bagel into a knockout dish! Who's ready to mix it up?
Top 13 Side Dishes for Bagels
Here are our top 13 favorite side dishes that go well with bagels. Whether you prefer savory or sweet, we've got something for everyone!
1 - Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon
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Let's start with a classic - cream cheese and smoked salmon. It's a match made in heaven, bringing together the creamy tang of cream cheese and the smoky saltiness of salmon.
This combo is a breakfast staple but works just as well for lunch or dinner.
We love how easy it is to put together - simply spread some cream cheese on your bagel and top it off with strips of smoked salmon. It's simple, yet oh-so-satisfying.
2 - Avocado and Egg
Avocado toast, who? We're all about that bagel and avocado combo.
The creamy richness of avocado goes well with the slightly crispy exterior of a toasted bagel.
For an extra protein boost, add a poached or fried egg on top. The runny yolk creates a delicious sauce that brings everything together.
This side is versatile - enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or even as a snack!
3 - Nut Butter and Banana
If you have a sweet tooth, this one's for you. Bagels are great for holding up to spreads like nut butter.
The nuttiness improves the overall flavor while the bananas bring some natural sweetness. This combo is great for those mornings when you want something indulgent but still relatively healthy.
4 - Pesto and Tomato
Pesto is one of our go-to sauces for adding flavor to any meal, and bagels are no exception. Its herby goodness pairs really well with fresh tomatoes, creating a deliciously satisfying side dish.
We love how the juicy tomatoes add juiciness and freshness to each bite, cutting through the richness of the pesto.
It's like a mini pizza in every bite!
5 - Whipped Honey Goat Cheese and Berries
For a fancy twist, try whipped honey goat cheese with berries. It's a sweet and savory combo that hits all the right notes.
The tangy goat cheese perfectly balances out the sweetness of honey, while the fresh berries add bursts of juicy flavor.
This side is perfect for brunch or even as a light dessert.
6 - Hummus and Veggies
Hummus is another versatile spread that goes well with bagels. Its creamy texture and subtle flavors make it a great pairing with crunchy veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers.
We love how this side adds some much-needed freshness to our meal, making it feel lighter and more balanced.
7 - Bacon and Maple Syrup
Bacon and maple syrup - need we say more? This combo is a classic for a reason.
The salty, crispy bacon paired with the sweetness of maple syrup creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
Try it on a toasted bagel for that extra crunch factor. It's perfect for those days when you want something indulgent and comforting.
8 - Spinach and Feta
For a healthier option, try spinach and feta. The earthiness of the spinach goes with the tangy saltiness of feta cheese beautifully.
It's like having a Greek salad on your bagel!
For even more flavor, add some sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers. This side is a tasty way to sneak in some greens into your meal.
9 - Apple and Brie
For another sweet and savory combo, try apple and brie on your bagel. The crispness of the apple contrasts nicely with the creaminess of brie cheese, creating a deliciously unique flavor.
It's like eating an upscale version of a childhood favorite - grilled cheese and apples.
10 - Cream Cheese and Jam
We can't talk about bagels without mentioning this classic combination - cream cheese and jam. The creamy tanginess of cream cheese goes well with sweet, fruity jam.
Choose any flavor you like, from classic strawberry to more adventurous options like raspberry jalapeno or fig spread.
11 - Peanut Butter and Jelly
Another classic combo - peanut butter and jelly. This childhood favorite is still a hit with us adults.
The creamy nuttiness of peanut butter goes well with the fruity sweetness of jam.
Try it on a toasted bagel for an extra layer of crunch. It's great for breakfast or as a quick snack during the day.
12 - Tofu Cream Cheese and Cucumber
For our vegan friends, we have something special - tofu cream cheese and cucumber on a bagel. The cool crunchiness of cucumber pairs well with the creamy, tangy tofu cream cheese.
Add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for some extra flavor and texture.
13 - Fruit and Yogurt
Last but not least, we have a healthier option - fruit and yogurt. Bagels are great for holding toppings like Greek yogurt and fresh fruit.
The tanginess of the yogurt goes with the sweetness of the fruit, making it a deliciously refreshing side dish.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
