Everything bagel seasoning has taken the culinary world by storm. This delightful blend of flavors – featuring sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt – enhances the taste of various dishes beyond just bagels. In this article, we’ll explore what to cook with everything bagel seasoning, offering a variety of delicious recipes and creative uses for this versatile spice mix.
The Allure of Everything Bagel Seasoning
The popularity of everything bagel seasoning stems from its incredible flavor profile. It’s not only savory, but it also carries a crunch thanks to the seeds. This unique combination makes it a delightful addition to numerous dishes. As a home cook or a culinary enthusiast, having everything bagel seasoning in your pantry can elevate your meals and inspire creativity in the kitchen.
Creative Cooking Ideas with Everything Bagel Seasoning
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, there are countless ways to incorporate everything bagel seasoning into your meals. Below are some creative cooking ideas to inspire your next culinary adventure.
1. Roasted Vegetables
One of the simplest yet most satisfying ways to use everything bagel seasoning is by sprinkling it over roasted vegetables. The seasoning complements various vegetables and enhances their natural flavors.
Recipe for Everything Bagel Roasted Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 2 cups of cauliflower florets
- 1 cup of carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- On a large baking sheet, toss the broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the vegetables.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred, stirring halfway through.
2. Everything Bagel Avocado Toast
Avocado toast has become a breakfast staple, and adding everything bagel seasoning takes it to the next level. This simple dish can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Recipe for Everything Bagel Avocado Toast
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of whole grain bread
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons of everything bagel seasoning
- Optional: sliced cherry tomatoes, radishes, or a poached egg for topping
Instructions:
- Toast the slices of bread until golden brown.
- In a bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice until smooth.
- Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread.
- Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning generously on top and add any optional toppings you desire.
3. Cream Cheese Dip
Create a creamy and flavor-packed dip perfect for parties or gatherings. This cream cheese dip will be a hit with your guests.
Recipe for Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients:
- 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning
- Optional: serve with bagel chips or fresh vegetables
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, green onions, and everything bagel seasoning.
- Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Pancakes & Waffles
You might be surprised to learn that everything bagel seasoning can elevate your breakfast favorites like pancakes and waffles. The seasoning adds a delightful savory contrast to the sweetness of syrup.
Recipe for Everything Bagel Pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning
- Butter or oil for cooking
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, and everything bagel seasoning.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter or oil.
- Pour batter onto the skillet and cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
5. Everything Bagel Seasoned Chicken
Transform your proteins with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning! It adds a unique twist to grilled or baked chicken.
Recipe for Everything Bagel Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet and drizzle olive oil over them.
- Season generously with everything bagel seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Exploring More Dishes with Everything Bagel Seasoning
The beauty of everything bagel seasoning is its versatility. Here are more creative ways to use this seasoning in your home cooking.
6. Everything Bagel Seasoned Popcorn
Why not spice up your popcorn? Tossing hot, freshly popped popcorn with everything bagel seasoning can create a snack that’s both savory and satisfying.
Recipe for Everything Bagel Popcorn
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the popcorn kernels and cover the pot, shaking occasionally until popping slows.
- Once popped, transfer to a large bowl, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning and salt to taste, and toss to combine.
7. Everything Bagel Seasoning Omelet
Start your day right with a delicious omelet infused with everything bagel seasoning.
Recipe for Everything Bagel Omelet
Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon of milk
- 2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning
- Vegetables of choice (e.g., spinach, tomatoes, bell peppers)
- Cheese of choice (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and everything bagel seasoning.
- Heat a non-stick skillet and pour the egg mixture into the pan.
- Add your choice of vegetables and cheese as the eggs begin to set.
- Cook until the eggs are fully set, then fold the omelet and serve.
How to Make Your Own Everything Bagel Seasoning
If you can’t find everything bagel seasoning at the store or prefer a home-made blend, making your own is easy and allows you to customize the proportions to your liking.
Homemade Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or black)
- 3 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons dehydrated garlic flakes
- 2 tablespoons dehydrated onion flakes
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Use it to season your favorite dishes!
Conclusion
Everything bagel seasoning is an incredibly versatile and flavorful spice blend that can enhance a wide array of dishes, from savory to sweet. Whether you are roasting vegetables, incorporating it into breakfast dishes, or creating creamy dips, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a jar of everything bagel seasoning and start experimenting in your kitchen today! With the right recipes and a little creativity, you’ll transform ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. Happy cooking!
What is everything bagel seasoning made of?
Everything bagel seasoning typically includes a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. The combination of these ingredients brings a unique flavor profile that’s savory, nutty, and aromatic, making it versatile for various culinary applications. You can find pre-mixed versions at grocery stores or make your own at home by combining these ingredients in specific ratios to suit your taste.
The base of sesame and poppy seeds provides a crunchy texture, while the dried garlic and onion contribute a robust flavor. The seasoning is often enhanced by a pinch of sea salt, which elevates the overall taste. This simple yet flavorful mix has gained immense popularity, not just for bagels but as a seasoning for various dishes.
What are some creative uses for everything bagel seasoning?
Everything bagel seasoning can be utilized in many creative ways beyond just topping bagels. One popular method is to use it as a seasoning for vegetables. Sprinkle it on roasted or sautéed veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots to add an interesting depth of flavor. It can also enhance dips such as hummus or yogurt-based sauces, making them more flavorful and enticing.
Another creative application of this seasoning is in egg dishes. Whether you’re preparing scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas, adding everything bagel seasoning can turn a simple meal into something extraordinary. You can even incorporate it into baked goods like bread or crackers, infusing them with that distinctive flavor many people love.
Can everything bagel seasoning be used in salads?
Absolutely! Everything bagel seasoning can be a fantastic addition to salads. It adds a nice crunch and a burst of flavor that can elevate any salad. You can sprinkle it over fresh greens, or mix it into vinaigrettes and dressings for a unique twist. This seasoning works beautifully with salads containing avocados, cucumbers, or grilled chicken.
If you’re looking for a heartier salad, consider using everything bagel seasoning as a topping for grain salads, such as quinoa or farro salads. The nutty flavors of the seasoning pair well with the earthy components of the grains, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to impress.
Is everything bagel seasoning suitable for dietary restrictions?
Everything bagel seasoning is generally suitable for a range of dietary restrictions, as it is typically gluten-free and vegan. The main ingredients (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt) are natural plant-based foods, making this seasoning an excellent choice for those on a vegan or vegetarian diet. However, it’s essential to check the label if you’re purchasing a pre-made version, as some brands may include added ingredients that could contain allergens.
For individuals with specific allergies, such as sesame allergies, it’s crucial to avoid everything bagel seasoning entirely. Moreover, if you’re on a low-sodium diet, you may want to be cautious about how much you use, as salt is a significant component of the seasoning blend. However, making your own blend at home allows you to control the amount of salt and tailor the seasoning to fit your individual dietary needs.
Can I make everything bagel seasoning at home?
Yes, making everything bagel seasoning at home is quite simple and allows you to customize it to your taste. To create your own blend, combine equal parts of sesame seeds and poppy seeds, then add garlic and onion flakes to your preferred taste. A little salt is often included to enhance the flavor, but you can adjust the quantity based on your dietary preferences. This homemade mix can be stored in an airtight container for several weeks and used as needed.
Creating your own seasoning also means you can experiment with other ingredients, such as adding a pinch of chili flakes for heat or dried herbs for an additional flavor dimension. This flexibility makes it a fun and creative way to spice up various dishes while ensuring you can match the seasoning to your dietary needs and culinary preferences.
How should I store everything bagel seasoning?
To ensure the freshness and potency of your everything bagel seasoning, it’s best to store it in an airtight container. Glass jars with sealed lids or small spice containers work well for this purpose. Keeping the seasoning away from light, moisture, and heat will help preserve its flavors. A cool, dark pantry or cabinet is an ideal storage location, typically keeping the seasoning fresh for several months.
If you notice a change in aroma or flavor over time, it may be a sign that the seasoning has lost its potency. In such cases, it’s advisable to make a fresh batch. Regularly checking your seasoning can help you enjoy the best flavors in your culinary creations.
What dishes pair well with everything bagel seasoning?
Everything bagel seasoning pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. Breakfast foods are among the most popular and include items like avocados on toast, scrambled eggs, or even baked eggs. When you sprinkle this seasoning on these dishes, it adds an extra layer of flavor that transforms the meal from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s also excellent on cream cheese or spreads, enhancing bagels or crackers.
Beyond breakfast, this seasoning shines in various savory dishes. It can be sprinkled on roasted meats, seafood, or even incorporated into salad dressings and dips. Vegetables roasted with everything bagel seasoning become flavorful side dishes, and it also works remarkably well in hearty grain bowls. The versatility of this seasoning truly allows it to complement a wide array of culinary creations.