Alexandra's Healthy Hummus Bagel Recipe shows that a colorful presentation and fulfillment of the contest theme is what it takes to win recipe contests. This recipe needs only five ingredients and requires no cooking method more complicated than toasting, but it still won a big prize from a major brand.
Note how even the recipe name reflects the message the sponsor is trying to send -- that bagels are healthy as well as great tasting. This would be a good tip to keep in mind with your own recipes.
Full Recipe: Alexandra's Healthy Hummus Bagel Recipe