These Cottage Cheese Veggie Bagels are a tasty way to start your day! They are soft, fluffy bagels filled with cottage cheese, and topped with colorful veggies for a healthy crunch.
I love how easy they are to make! Just mix the ingredients, shape the bagels, and bake. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack anytime. Who could resist a bagel with all that goodness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yeast: Active dry yeast is essential for making the bagels rise. If you don’t have it, you can use instant yeast—just mix it directly into the flour! Make sure the water is warm, about 110°F, to activate the yeast properly.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for bagels, giving them the right texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try a whole wheat flour mix, but keep in mind that it may change the flavor and chewiness a bit.
Cottage Cheese: For a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat cottage cheese. If you’re aiming for a creamier filling, consider using ricotta cheese instead, which offers a rich taste and texture.
Veggies: The red bell pepper and red onion add a great crunch and flavor. You can use any color bell pepper or even diced zucchini. If you’re a fan of a milder taste, use green onions instead of red.
How Do I Get the Perfect Bagel Shape?
Shaping bagels can be tricky, but it’s all about the technique! After punching down the dough, make sure to divide it evenly. Here’s how to form them:
- Roll each portion into a ball to ensure it’s smooth. This helps with the final shape.
- Poke your finger through the center and gently stretch it to form a ring. Don’t worry if the hole looks small; it will expand while boiling!
- Let them rest for about 20 minutes before boiling. This helps them keep their shape.
Make sure your hands are floured to prevent sticking, and you’ll have perfect bagels every time!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Veggie Bagels?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bagels:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, garlic, salt mix)
For Boiling:
- 2 quarts water
- 1 tbsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp sugar
For The Filling:
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (drained if watery)
- ½ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs for flavor in cottage cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour for the dough to rise. Boiling and baking will take an additional 30-35 minutes. So, you’re looking at around 2 hours total from start to enjoying your delicious bagels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bagel Dough:
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Wait about 5-10 minutes until it looks foamy. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work! Now, add the flour, salt, and olive oil to this mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead it on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
2. Shape the Bagels:
Once your dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, poke a hole through the center with your finger, and gently stretch it to create a bagel shape. Place your shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them and let them rest for 20 minutes.
3. Boil the Bagels:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot, then add the baking soda and sugar. Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water, boiling for 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them back on the baking sheet. Don’t forget to sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning over each bagel!
4. Bake the Bagels:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place your baking sheet in the oven and bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and have a nice crispy exterior. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
5. Prepare the Filling:
While the bagels are cooling, mix together the cottage cheese, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, chopped spinach, and parsley in a bowl. Season it with salt, pepper, and any optional garlic powder or herbs you like. Mix gently to combine the flavors.
6. Assemble the Bagels:
Once the bagels are completely cool, slice them in half horizontally. Spread a generous amount of the cottage cheese veggie mixture on the bottom half of each bagel. Top with the other half and serve immediately. Enjoy your delightful Cottage Cheese Veggie Bagels for breakfast or as a tasty snack!
Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Flour for All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it will create a denser bagel. You might want to mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture while still adding some whole grain goodness.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Other Fillings to the Cottage Cheese Mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs to the filling. Some great options include diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.
What Should I Serve With the Bagels?
These bagels are delicious on their own but pair well with fresh fruit, a side salad, or a warm cup of soup for a complete meal. They also make great appetizers when sliced into smaller pieces!
