Start your day with a hearty, nutritious meal with these Mediterranean-inspired bagel breakfast sandwiches. Packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, they’re a perfect way to fuel your morning while keeping things healthy and satisfying.
Two halves of a Mediterranean bagel breakfast sandwich stacked.
Bagel breakfast sandwiches are a classic morning favorite, but here we’ve given them a Mediterranean twist. By incorporating whole grains, fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and protein-rich ingredients, this recipe follows the principles of the Mediterranean diet without feeling restrictive. Whether you’re in a rush or enjoying a leisurely morning, these sandwiches come together in minutes and make every bite a flavor-packed experience.
While bagel sandwiches aren’t traditionally Mediterranean, the beauty of the Mediterranean diet is that its principles can be applied to any meal. Here, we’ve combined pesto, feta, fresh greens, and perfectly cooked eggs to create a breakfast that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balanced nutrition: Each sandwich is packed with whole grains, fiber, protein, and healthy fats to keep you energized throughout the morning.
- Mediterranean-inspired flavors: Fresh pesto, creamy avocado, and tangy feta bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your breakfast plate.
- Quick and simple: From start to finish, this sandwich takes about 15 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Bagel: Whole wheat bagels are ideal for added fiber, but any bagel you enjoy works. For an extra protein boost, try making homemade Greek yogurt bagels.
- Eggs: Use any cooking style you prefer – sheet pan eggs, scrambled, fried, poached, or hard-boiled all work beautifully.
- Avocado: Adds healthy fats and a creamy texture that perfectly balances the crispy bagel.
- Pesto: The combination of pesto and eggs is a delicious twist that adds a burst of flavor.
- Cheese: Feta is classic for a Mediterranean touch, but any flavorful cheese such as aged cheddar or havarti can work.
- Greens: Arugula provides a peppery bite, while spinach or lettuce can also be used.
- Tomato: Large, firm slices like beefsteak or hot house tomatoes create the perfect sandwich layer.
All ingredients can be adjusted to your taste or dietary needs, making this recipe versatile and adaptable.
How to Make Mediterranean Bagel Breakfast Sandwiches
- Slice the bagel in half and toast until golden brown.
- Spread a thin layer of pesto on one half of the bagel. On the other half, spread mashed avocado.
- Layer arugula, cooked egg, tomato slices, and crumbled feta over the pesto half.
- Close the sandwich with the avocado-covered half, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately.
Two halves of a bagel breakfast sandwich stacked.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free bagel of your choice.
- Dairy-free: Replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Nut-free: Ensure the pesto is nut-free or make your own without nuts.
For variety, you can:
- Swap arugula for spinach, sprouts, or lettuce.
- Add cooked bacon, turkey sausage, or smoked salmon for extra protein.
- Replace feta with a melty cheese like havarti or aged cheddar.
- Include roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
- Spread pesto on the egg directly instead of the bagel for a unique twist.
Equipment Needed
- Toaster or oven
- Knife for slicing
- Spoon for spreading
Storage Tips
These sandwiches are best eaten fresh, especially because of the avocado. For meal prep, skip the avocado and substitute a spread like hummus to prevent browning. Roasted red pepper lentil hummus is an excellent Mediterranean-style alternative.
Freezer-friendly options include pre-made egg sandwiches that can be assembled quickly in the morning or reheated in an air fryer or microwave.
Top Tips for Success
- Customize your sandwich with the ingredients you have on hand – this recipe is a flexible foundation.
- Toasting the bagel well ensures a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy fillings.
- Use ripe avocado for easy mashing and maximum flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bagel works best?
Whole wheat or multigrain bagels are ideal for extra fiber and nutrition. Homemade bagels with Greek yogurt are a great high-protein option.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prep the eggs and vegetables in advance. Keep avocado separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
What variations are popular?
Try adding bacon, turkey sausage, roasted veggies, or swapping feta for a different cheese to create a new flavor combination each time.
Mediterranean-Inspired Bagel Breakfast Sandwiches
- Total Time: 15 min
Ingredients
1 whole wheat bagel or homemade Greek yogurt bagel
1 tsp pesto
¼ avocado, mashed
Handful arugula
2 eggs (or equivalent sheet pan egg slice)
2 slices tomato
2 tbsp feta cheese, crumbled
Optional: bacon, turkey sausage
Instructions
- Slice the bagel in half and toast.
- Spread pesto on one half, avocado on the other.
- Layer arugula, egg, tomato, and feta on the pesto side.
- Top with the avocado half, slice, and serve.
Notes
- For melted cheese, microwave 30-45 seconds or air fry at 350°F for 3 minutes before closing the sandwich.
- Optional: Add bacon, turkey sausage, or extra protein as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 5 min
