These Cottage Cheese Veggie Bagels are a tasty and healthy treat! Packed with fresh veggies and creamy cottage cheese, they make a great meal or snack.
I love how colorful they look on my plate! It’s like eating a rainbow. Plus, they’re super easy to make—perfect for when I want something quick yet delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base for your bagels. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat flour can be a good substitute, though it may change the texture slightly. I stick with all-purpose for its balance of softness and chewiness.
Cottage Cheese: The star ingredient! It brings creaminess and protein. If you want a dairy-free version, try using vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu for similar texture.
Vegetables: Red onions, cucumbers, and bell peppers add freshness. Feel free to swap out any for your favorite veggies, such as cherry tomatoes or grated carrots, to suit your preference.
Egg White: This gives the bagels a glossy finish. For a vegan choice, a sprinkle of plant-based milk can work, but remember it won’t be as shiny!
How Do You Get the Perfect Bagel Shape?
Shaping bagels correctly can be tricky, but it’s key for that classic look. After dividing the dough, gently form balls without overworking them. Here’s how to shape them well:
- Use your thumb to poke a hole in the middle of the dough ball.
- As you stretch the dough to create the bagel shape, aim for an even thickness, about 1/2 inch, all around.
- Don’t worry if they look a little rough at first; they’ll puff up nicely when baked!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Veggie Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Topping:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (red or green)
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bagel Coating:
- 1 egg white (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mixed dried herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 tsp poppy seeds or black sesame seeds
- Red chili flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus around 1 hour for the dough to rise. Then, you’ll bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes. So, you should have delicious veggie bagels ready in about 1 hour and 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Pour in the warm water and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
2. Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This is a great workout! Then, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 hour.
3. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Filling:
While the dough is rising, take a medium bowl and mix together the cottage cheese, chopped red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, optional green chili, and fresh herbs. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and set it aside.
4. Shape the Bagels:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Divide it into 6 equal portions, and shape each piece into a ball. Now, using your thumb, poke a hole through the center of each ball, stretching it gently to form the classic bagel shape.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Carefully place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This helps prevent sticking. Next, brush the tops of the bagels with egg white for a nice golden finish.
6. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle the garlic powder, mixed dried herbs, poppy seeds, and optional chili flakes evenly over the tops of the bagels. This adds delicious flavor and a nice crunch!
7. Fill the Bagels:
Generously spoon the cottage cheese vegetable mixture into the holes of each bagel. Don’t be shy—fill them up!
8. Bake the Bagels:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven is ready, bake the bagels for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Let Them Cool:
When they’re done baking, carefully remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
These savory bagels are not only a great breakfast option, but also work wonderfully as a healthy snack. Enjoy the delightful combination of fresh veggies and creamy cottage cheese within a flavorful crust!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients but may lead to a denser bagel. You can substitute it in a 1:1 ratio, but consider adding a touch more water if the dough feels too dry.
What Can I Use Instead of Cottage Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu are excellent substitutes. Both provide a similar creamy texture, making them great fillers for the bagels!
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store leftover bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even grated carrots. Just make sure to chop them finely to maintain a nice texture in the filling.
