Bagels are back in a big way – they are everywhere! Need breakfast on the go? Grab a bagel. Tired of fast food lunches? Bagel to the rescue! Out of regular bread for your late night snack sandwich? Bagel! However, traditional toppings might not be best for the vegetarian eating the roll with a hole! How can you make your bagel topping animal product free?
Here are seven great, meat free bagel combos (most are also vegan, if you find an egg free bagel you’d like to pair with guilt free toppings).
Peanut Butter and Banana Bagel
It’s the time honored fave – creamy or crunchy PB with bananas sliced on top. You can switch this up by using Nutella, drizzling a little maple syrup or honey on top, or even switching nut spreads and trying cashew – or sunflower seed – butter.
Veggie Burger Bagel
Putting a hamburger patty on a bagel bun isn’t new. All it takes to make this meal acceptable is switching out the burger patty with a veggie burger. Track down Gardein, Amy’s, or Boca veggie burger brands, heat and slap on the sliced bagel, and add the traditional round of toppings – tomato, lettuce, pickles, ketchup, mayo or mustard. Ta-da!
Deli Sammie Bagel
Trade lunchmeat for vegan deli slices and create an amazing deli sammie at home. Tofurkey is the biggest brand, but check your local whole foods or vegan market for more. Use unusual spreads and get crazy with toppings – paper thin slices of cucumber might surprise you with their crunchy yet light addition to the main event.
Scrambled Tofu Bagel
Scramble your favorite tofu based egg substitute with green peppers, onions and mushrooms, then toast your bagel, butter lavishly, and pile on the protein! This is a great choice for mornings when you need that extra boost. Top with spinach and a thick slice of tomato for extra punch.
The Hummus Bagel
Hummus is a natural spread for vegetarians looking for bagel toppings. Don’t let it be boring, though – look for specialty hummus blends that are spicy or flavorful, and add to the excitement by adding lemon dowsed arugula or sweet basil as a garnish.
Maximum Boost Breakfast Bagel
Start with a tofu egg prepared just the way you like it. Split, butter and toast your bagel, slide on the egg, and top with kale, tomato and a dab of pesto for a kickstart to your day that will keep you going until lunchtime.
ABC Bagel
Avocado, bacon and cheese make for a terrific bagel diversion. Start with your favorite type of bagel. Split and cover with vegetarian cheese product and tempeh bacon, broil lightly, then top with fresh sliced avocado. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and lemon juice and enjoy!