DIY Bagel Sandwich Station: Build Your Perfect Breakfast (or Lunch)

DIY Bagel Sandwich Station (Serves 10)

Prep Time: 20 minutes Assembly Time: 5 minutes per person

The Bagel Foundation:

• 6 everything bagels

• 4 plain bagels

• 4 sesame seed bagels

• 3 cinnamon raisin bagels (for the sweet tooth crowd)

• 3 whole wheat bagels

• Total: 20 bagel halves - perfect for 10 people with variety

The Spread Station:

• 16 oz plain cream cheese

• 8 oz herb cream cheese (chives, garlic, dill)

• 8 oz smoked salmon cream cheese

• 1 stick butter, softened

• 2 ripe avocados (for fresh avocado spread)

Protein Powerhouse:

• 1 lb sliced turkey

• 1 lb sliced ham

• 8 oz smoked salmon

• 10 strips bacon (use your perfect oven-baked bacon!)

• 6 hard-boiled eggs, sliced

Fresh Add-Ins:

• 2 large tomatoes, sliced

• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cucumber, sliced

• Lettuce leaves

• Fresh sprouts

• 2 tablespoons capers (for the salmon lovers)

Instructions:

1. Set Up Your Stations: Arrange in logical order for smooth flow:

• Bagels (toasted or fresh) → spreads → proteins → fresh additions → assembly area

• Provide small knives or spoons for each spread

• Keep cold items chilled until service

2. Create Signature Combinations: Make small signs suggesting these crowd-pleasers:

• The Classic Lox: Everything bagel + plain cream cheese + smoked salmon + capers + red onion

• The Hearty Crew: Plain bagel + butter + ham + egg + tomato + lettuce

• The Fresh Start: Whole wheat + avocado + turkey + cucumber + sprouts

• The Everything Plus: Everything bagel + herb cream cheese + bacon + tomato

• The Sweet & Savory: Cinnamon raisin + plain cream cheese + turkey + cucumber

3. Assembly Instructions:

• Toast bagels lightly if desired (optional but recommended)

• Spread your chosen base generously

• Layer proteins first, then fresh additions

• Don't overload - these need to be edible, not Instagram props

Galley Pro Tips:

• Prep proteins ahead: Cook bacon the night before, slice eggs and vegetables in advance

• Keep it fresh: Set up cold items just before service - nobody wants warm cream cheese

• Portion awareness: Provide serving spoons to prevent one person from using all the smoked salmon

• Toast efficiency: If toasting, do it in batches and keep warm in a low oven

Perfect for Any Time

The beauty of this bagel station is its versatility:

• Breakfast: Classic morning combinations with eggs and bacon

• Lunch: Heartier options with turkey and ham

• Brunch: The best of both worlds with smoked salmon options

• Late night: Whatever's left makes great midnight snacks

Storage and Cleanup

Leftover spreads keep well refrigerated for several days. Extra bagels can be frozen and toasted straight from the freezer. Any leftover proteins work great in salads or wraps for the next day - waste nothing in the galley.

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