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Mandarin Olive Bagel Crostini with Creamy Italian Spread

Prep 20 minutes | Cook 25 minutes | Advanced | Serves 4 | Italian

This dish beautifully marries the robust flavors of Italian cuisine with the elegance of modern presentation. Each bite is a symphony of creamy, tangy, and sweet notes, designed to captivate both the palate and the eyes.

What you have

• 4 bagels
• 1 cup jarred olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup jarred sauce
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup carton cream cheese
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups salad greens
• 1 cup grapes, halved
• 1 cup mandarin oranges, segmented
• 1/4 cup dill relish
• 1/2 cup yogurt

Method

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice bagels into thin rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 10 minutes until golden and crisp.
2. Step 2: In a blender, combine mayonnaise, cream cheese, dill relish, and a handful of fresh basil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Poach eggs in simmering water with a splash of vinegar for about 3-4 minutes until whites are set but yolks are still soft.
4. Step 4: On each bagel crostini, spread a layer of the creamy Italian mixture, then top with a poached egg, sliced olives, and a drizzle of jarred sauce.
5. Step 5: Garnish with fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve with a salad of mixed greens, grapes, and mandarin oranges dressed with a lemon vinaigrette.

Serving suggestion

Mixed greens salad with grapes and mandarin oranges

A crisp, chilled glass of Pinot Grigio