What To Serve With Bagels? 17 Best Side Dishes

Bagels are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. They’re chewy, satisfying, and can be topped with just about anything. But if you want to make your meal more exciting, pair them with some delicious sides.

Whether you like something creamy, tangy, or a little sweet, there’s a great option to go with your bagels. Here are 17 tasty side dishes that will complement your bagels and make your meal feel complete.

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The best side dishes to serve with bagels are scrambled eggs, cream of mushroom soup, hard-boiled eggs, tzatziki sauce, pineapple salsa, guacamole, ricotta, green shakshuka, cucumber salad, dulce de leche, hummus, raspberry jam, apple butter, roasted red peppers, and bacon.

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1. Guacamole

Creamy, rich guacamole is always a good idea. It adds a smooth texture and a burst of flavor to your bagel. Mash ripe avocados and mix them with lime juice, diced tomatoes, onions, and a bit of salt. Spread it on a toasted bagel or use it as a dip. It works well with eggs, smoked salmon, or even a slice of fresh tomato for extra freshness.

2. Scrambled Eggs

Soft, fluffy scrambled eggs are a classic side for bagels. They add a rich, creamy texture and plenty of protein to your meal. To make them extra soft, whisk eggs with a splash of milk or cream, then cook them slowly over low heat, stirring gently. A little butter makes them even better. Serve them alongside a bagel, or pile them on top with cheese and fresh herbs for a satisfying breakfast sandwich.

3. Cream of Mushroom Soup

A warm, creamy soup pairs wonderfully with a toasted bagel. The earthy flavor of mushrooms, combined with a rich broth, makes this a cozy side dish. To make it, sauté mushrooms with garlic and onions until soft. Stir in flour for thickness, then pour in vegetable or chicken broth. Add cream and let it simmer until smooth. Serve it hot with your favorite bagel for a comforting meal, perfect for chilly mornings or rainy afternoons.

4. Green Shakshuka

For something hearty, try green shakshuka. This dish is a twist on the classic tomato-based version, using spinach, kale, and herbs instead. Sauté onions and garlic, then add chopped greens and let them cook down. Make small wells in the mixture and crack in some eggs, letting them cook until just set. Serve it with a warm bagel for a filling, flavorful meal packed with nutrients.

5. Tzatziki Sauce

If you want something refreshing, tzatziki sauce is a great option. This Greek yogurt-based sauce is cool, tangy, and slightly garlicky, making it a nice contrast to a warm, chewy bagel. Mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill. It’s perfect as a spread or a dip, especially with a bagel topped with smoked salmon or roasted veggies.

6. Pineapple Salsa

A little sweetness can brighten up your bagel spread. Pineapple salsa is fresh, juicy, and slightly spicy. Dice fresh pineapple, red onion, and bell pepper, then mix them with lime juice and chopped cilantro. For some heat, add a bit of jalapeño. This salsa pairs especially well with a bagel topped with cream cheese or avocado. It’s a fun way to add a tropical twist to your meal.

7. Ricotta

If you’re looking for a mild, creamy spread, ricotta is a great choice. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and goes well with both savory and sweet toppings. Spread it on a bagel and drizzle with honey for a simple, satisfying treat. Or top it with cherry tomatoes and basil for something more savory. Ricotta’s light texture makes it a great alternative to heavier spreads like cream cheese.

8. Cucumber Salad

A light and refreshing cucumber salad is a great contrast to the dense, chewy texture of a bagel. Slice cucumbers thin and toss them with red onion, dill, vinegar, and a touch of olive oil. A sprinkle of salt and pepper brings out the flavors. This crisp, tangy salad is a great side for a bagel with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or even plain butter. It’s especially nice on warm days when you want something cool and refreshing.

9. Bacon

Crispy, salty bacon pairs perfectly with a warm bagel. Whether you eat it on the side or tuck it into a sandwich, it adds a smoky, savory crunch. Cook it in a skillet, bake it in the oven, or even try turkey bacon for a lighter option. For a sweet and salty twist, brush bacon with a little maple syrup while it cooks. It’s a simple but delicious way to round out your bagel meal.

10. Dulce de Leche

If you have a sweet tooth, dulce de leche is a must-try. This rich, caramel-like sauce is made by slowly cooking sweetened milk until it thickens into a smooth, golden spread. It pairs perfectly with a warm bagel, especially when spread over cream cheese or ricotta. You can also drizzle it over a toasted bagel with banana slices for a simple but delicious treat.

11. Hard-Boiled Eggs

For a simple protein boost, hard-boiled eggs are a great choice. They add a mild flavor that won’t overpower the taste of your bagel. To get the perfect texture, place eggs in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and let them sit for about 10 minutes. Peel and slice them or mash them with a little salt and pepper. They go well with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or just a plain buttered bagel.

12. Hummus

Hummus is a creamy, savory spread that works well with bagels. Made from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, it adds a smooth, nutty flavor that goes well with both plain and seeded bagels. Try it as a dip, or spread it on a bagel with sliced cucumbers and tomatoes for a quick, healthy snack. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.

13. Raspberry Jam

For a fruity twist, raspberry jam is a great choice. It’s sweet, slightly tart, and full of fresh berry flavor. Spread it on a toasted bagel with butter or cream cheese for a classic combination. If you want something even more special, try mixing it with a little Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy spread. Homemade raspberry jam with fresh berries and a bit of honey makes it even better.

14. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a simple but versatile side for bagels. It’s thick, creamy, and packed with protein. Enjoy it plain, or mix in honey, fresh fruit, or a handful of granola for extra texture. You can also use it as a spread instead of cream cheese, especially with toppings like smoked salmon or cucumbers. If you want a sweet version, try it with cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup.

15. Smoked Whitefish Salad

For a deli-style addition to your bagel, smoked whitefish salad is a fantastic option. It’s creamy, slightly smoky, and packed with flavor. To make it, flake smoked whitefish and mix it with mayonnaise, a bit of lemon juice, and finely chopped celery and onion. Spread it on a bagel for a filling and satisfying meal, especially if you love classic New York deli flavors.

16. Apple Butter

Apple butter is a smooth, spiced spread made by slowly cooking apples until they become thick and caramelized. It has a deep, rich flavor with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Spread it on a warm bagel with butter, cream cheese, or peanut butter for a cozy, comforting bite. It’s a great choice for fall, but delicious any time of year.

17. Roasted Red Peppers

For a flavorful, slightly smoky side, roasted red peppers are a great option. Slice them up and toss them with olive oil, garlic, and a bit of balsamic vinegar. They’re delicious on their own, or you can layer them on a bagel with hummus, feta cheese, or fresh basil. Their sweet, slightly charred flavor adds a nice depth to any bagel combination.