Description of this recipe
These Ultimate Picnic Sandwich Bagels are a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for outdoor gatherings, road trips, or just a leisurely lunch at home. With crispy, toasted bagels as the base and a medley of fresh ingredients in between, these sandwiches are both satisfying and refreshing. The addition of honey roast ham, nutty cheese, and vibrant green beans makes every bite a burst of deliciousness.
Why you will love this recipe
You will fall in love with these Ultimate Picnic Sandwich Bagels for their versatility and ease of preparation. They are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making them a wholesome choice for any meal. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, tangy Dijon mustard, and crunchy cornichons adds a zesty kick that elevates the flavors. Plus, they are easy to transport, making them a fantastic option for picnics or packed lunches.
Introduction
When it comes to planning the perfect picnic, the food you choose can make all the difference. You want something that is easy to prepare, transport, and eat while enjoying the great outdoors. Enter the Ultimate Picnic Sandwich Bagels! These delightful sandwiches are not only visually appealing but also packed with a variety of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Whether you’re heading to the park, the beach, or simply enjoying a sunny day in your backyard, these bagels will be a hit with family and friends alike. They are customizable, allowing you to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will undoubtedly become a staple in your picnic repertoire!
Ingredients:
- 200g green beans, trimmed
- 50g salted butter, softened
- 6 bagels, sliced in half and toasted
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 6 tbsp mayonnaise
- 30g cornichons, finely chopped
- 1 round lettuce
- 200g Morrisons Market Street Deli Honey Roast Ham
- 75g pitted black olives, sliced
- 150g nutty cheese such as Gruyere, thinly sliced
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by bringing a pan of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the trimmed green beans. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet still have a slight crunch. This brief cooking time will help retain their vibrant green color and nutritional value.
Step 2:
After cooking, drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice-cold water. This process, known as blanching, will stop the cooking process and help maintain their crispness and bright color. Allow them to sit in the cold water for about 5 minutes before draining and drying them thoroughly.
Step 3:
While the green beans are cooling, take your toasted bagels and spread the softened butter generously over the cut sides of each half. The butter will not only add flavor but also create a barrier that prevents the bagel from becoming soggy.
Step 4:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and finely chopped cornichons. Season with a good grind of black pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will add a delightful tang and richness to your sandwiches. Spread this mixture evenly over the buttered sides of the bagels.
Step 5:
Now it’s time to assemble your bagel sandwiches! Start by separating the leaves from the head of lettuce and washing them thoroughly. Dry the leaves carefully with a salad spinner or paper towels. Layer 2-3 lettuce leaves on the bottom half of each bagel. Next, add a generous portion of the blanched green beans, followed by slices of Morrisons Market Street honey roast ham, black olives, and the nutty cheese. Finally, place the top half of the bagel on each sandwich and wrap them well in baking parchment to keep them fresh and intact for your picnic.
COOKING Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) – These bagels are not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for any occasion!
Serving Suggestions:
These Ultimate Picnic Sandwich Bagels can be served alongside a fresh fruit salad, crunchy vegetable sticks, or a refreshing beverage like homemade lemonade or iced tea. For a complete picnic experience, consider adding some chips or a light dessert, such as cookies or brownies.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with roasted vegetables or hummus.
- Use any type of cheese you prefer; a sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese can also work wonderfully.
- To enhance the flavors, consider adding sliced tomatoes or avocado for extra creaminess.
- If you’re making these sandwiches ahead of time, keep the components separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 420 (per sandwich)
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 850mg
Conclusion
The Ultimate Picnic Sandwich Bagels are a delightful addition to any outdoor meal or casual lunch. Their combination of fresh ingredients, robust flavors, and satisfying textures makes them a favorite among both adults and children. Easy to prepare and transport, these sandwiches are sure to impress your picnic companions and become a go-to recipe for sunny days ahead. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal outdoors!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I prepare these bagels the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the components the night before but it’s best to assemble them just before serving to avoid sogginess. - What can I use instead of green beans?
You can substitute green beans with thinly sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for a different crunch. - How long can I store the assembled bagels?
It’s best to consume them within a day for optimal freshness, but they can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. - Can I make these bagels gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bagels and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. - What drinks pair well with these sandwiches?
They pair wonderfully with iced tea, lemonade, or even a light white wine for adult picnics.
