Bagel Sandwich Veggie Recipe

Prepare bagels

Slice each bagel in half horizontally. Toast cut sides in a toaster or oven until golden and slightly crisp, about 2–4 minutes depending on your appliance.

Spread about 1/4 cup of hummus evenly over the bottom half of each toasted bagel and an optional thin layer (about 1 tablespoon) on the top half for extra flavor.

Make balsamic dressing

In a small bowl or jar combine 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified.

Place 4 cups mixed salad greens in a medium bowl. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the greens (use all for well-coated leaves, or reserve half for lighter dressing). Toss gently until leaves are evenly coated, about 10–15 seconds.

Prepare tomato

Slice the large tomato into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange slices on a plate, drizzle with 1/2 teaspoon olive oil, sprinkle 1/8 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Set aside.

Slice onion and olives

Thinly slice 1/4 of a red onion into rings or half-rings. Roughly chop or halve 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata or mixed olives. If olives are briny, pat them lightly with a paper towel to remove excess liquid.

On the hummus-coated bottom half of each toasted bagel, layer as follows: start with a generous handful (about 1/2 cup) of the balsamic-dressed greens, arranging them so they slightly overhang the edge for presentation.

Top the greens with 2–3 tomato slices per bagel half (adjust to fit), then add a few red onion slices (about 6–8 thin rings) distributed evenly.

Scatter about 2 tablespoons of chopped or halved olives over each sandwich (adjust to taste). If using optional finishes, sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, a pinch (about 1/16–1/8 tsp) of crushed red pepper flakes, and about 1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs over each sandwich for brightness.

Place the top bagel half (lightly spread with hummus if desired) over the fillings. Press gently to set. If serving immediately, cut sandwiches in half diagonally and serve. If transporting, wrap tightly to keep ingredients together.