Nicoise Bagels: A Unique Flavor Experience

Introduction

Indulge in a deliciously unique twist on a classic breakfast with these delightful Bagelwiches, inspired by the traditional Niçoise salad. Paired with blistered garlic green beans and drizzled with a fresh lemon herb vinaigrette, this recipe brings vibrant flavors and textures to your dining table. Perfect for brunch or a hearty lunch, each bite offers a satisfying combination of smoked salmon, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the Bagelwiches:
– 2 bagels, sliced and toasted
– 4 ounces smoked salmon
– 1 heirloom tomato, sliced
– 1 handful arugula microgreens (or greens of choice)
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons chopped Niçoise or Kalamata olives
– 2 tablespoons capers
– Pickled onions, for serving
– Freshly cracked black pepper

For the Blistered Garlic Green Beans:
– 1/2 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Pinch of salt
– Freshly ground black pepper

For the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette:
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs (such as chives, basil, etc.)
– Pinch of salt
– Freshly ground black pepper

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

Directions

1. Prepare the Blistered Garlic Green Beans:
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add the trimmed green beans and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to blister and char, about 5-7 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette:
– In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs.
– Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Bagelwiches:
– Slice and toast the bagels to your desired level of crispness.
– Spread a generous amount of the lemon herb vinaigrette on both halves of each toasted bagel.
– Layer the bottom half of each bagel with slices of heirloom tomato, a handful of arugula microgreens, and smoked salmon.
– Top with the blistered garlic green beans, chopped olives, capers, and pickled onions.
– Slice the hard-boiled eggs and place them on top.
– Drizzle additional lemon herb vinaigrette over the assembled ingredients.
– Season with freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
– Place the top half of the bagel on each sandwich.

4. Serve:
– Serve immediately and enjoy your Nicoise Bagelwiches with Blistered Garlic Green Beans.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Blistered Garlic Green Beans

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed green beans and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to blister and char, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Assemble the Bagelwiches

Slice and toast the bagels to your desired level of crispness. Spread a generous amount of the lemon herb vinaigrette on both halves of each toasted bagel. Layer the bottom half of each bagel with slices of heirloom tomato, a handful of arugula microgreens, and smoked salmon. Top with the blistered garlic green beans, chopped olives, capers, and pickled onions. Slice the hard-boiled eggs and place them on top. Drizzle additional lemon herb vinaigrette over the assembled ingredients. Season with freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Place the top half of the bagel on each sandwich.

Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your Nicoise Bagelwiches with Blistered Garlic Green Beans.

Notes

Ingredient Suggestions

Feel free to substitute the arugula microgreens with any greens of your choice, such as spinach or mixed greens.

Presentation Tips

For an appealing presentation, consider arranging the assembled Bagelwiches on a platter alongside the blistered garlic green beans.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store the Bagelwiches components separately to keep the bagels from becoming soggy. Assemble just before eating.

Nicoise Bagels: A Unique Flavor Experience
Nicoise Bagels: A Unique Flavor Experience

Cook techniques

Toasting Bagels

Toast bagels until they achieve your preferred level of crispness, enhancing their texture and flavor.

Blistering Green Beans

Cook green beans in a hot skillet with olive oil, allowing them to blister and char slightly for added flavor. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Minced Garlic Cooking

Add minced garlic to the blistered green beans during the final minute of cooking to infuse the dish with its fragrance without burning it.

Whisking Vinaigrette

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and herbs in a bowl. Whisk together until the mixture is emulsified, creating a flavorful dressing.

Layering Ingredients

Assemble the Bagelwiches by layering ingredients thoughtfully, starting with spreads and followed by vegetables, proteins, and garnishes for balanced flavors.

Seasoning

Add salt, pepper, and vinaigrette to taste at various stages to enhance and bring out the flavors of each ingredient.

FAQ

Can I use bagels other than plain?

Yes, you can use any flavor of bagels that you prefer, such as everything, sesame, or onion bagels.

What types of olives can I substitute?

You can substitute with any variety of olives you enjoy, such as green olives or black olives, depending on your taste preference.

Are there alternatives to capers?

If you don’t have capers, finely chopped pickles or green olives can be used as a substitute for a briny flavor.

Can I use different greens?

Absolutely! You can use spinach, kale, or any other greens you have on hand instead of arugula microgreens.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the smoked salmon and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein such as hummus or avocado.

Conclusion

The combination of the smoky salmon, fresh heirloom tomato, and zingy lemon herb vinaigrette creates a delightful symphony of flavors in the Bagelwiches, perfectly complemented by the crunchy blistered garlic green beans. This meal is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying choice for any time of the day. Enjoying this dish offers a wonderful balance between indulgence and healthiness, ensuring that every bite is a treat.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Consider pairing the bagelwiches with roasted asparagus for a seasonal green addition that enhances the dish’s freshness.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Try using cream cheese as a spread on the bagels for a richer base, adding an extra layer of creaminess to the already delicious toppings.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Incorporate sliced avocado in the bagelwiches for added creaminess and healthy fats, creating a heartier sandwich option.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Serve with a side of quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese for a refreshing and hearty accompaniment.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Experiment with different types of bagels, such as everything or sesame, to complement the flavors of the fillings.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Include a side of sweet potato fries to add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the savory bagelwiches.

Nicoise Bagels: A Unique Flavor Experience
Nicoise Bagels: A Unique Flavor Experience