This refreshing cucumber salad brings together crisp cucumbers and the famous everything bagel seasonings for a fun twist. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for any meal!
Add some color by tossing in cherry tomatoes or even feta cheese for extra flavor. I just can’t resist munching on it while prepping—it’s that good! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star here. I love using English cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and a crisp skin. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers will work too. Just peel them if the skin is tough.
Red Onion: This adds a little bite and color. If you’re not a fan of raw onion, you can skip it or use green onions for a milder flavor.
Mayonnaise/Greek Yogurt: Both create a creamy base. I prefer Greek yogurt for its tanginess and lower calories. If you’re dairy-free, try an avocado mash or a vegan mayo instead.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: This spice mix brings the flavors! If you can’t find it, you can make your own using sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley makes a lovely garnish. If you don’t have these, any fresh herb like cilantro or chives can add a nice touch.
How Do You Get the Cucumbers Just Right?
Slicing cucumbers the right way is key for this salad. Thin slices help them absorb the dressing better and stay crunchy. Here’s how:
- Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices.
- For a little extra texture, you can sprinkle some salt on the cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding to the salad to prevent it from becoming watery.
This way, your salad will remain fresh and crunchy, making every bite enjoyable!
Easy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 15 minutes of chilling time to let the flavors blend together. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes before you’re ready to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Next, thinly slice them using a sharp knife or mandoline for nice, even pieces. If you’re using red onion, slice that as well. Don’t worry if you choose to skip the onion; the salad will still taste amazing!
2. Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice (or vinegar), and everything bagel seasoning. This will be the creamy dressing that brings all the ingredients together.
3. Mix in the Veggies
Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until all the vegetable slices are well-coated in the dressing. It’s getting delicious already!
4. Final Seasoning
Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste into the salad. Give it another gentle toss to mix everything evenly.
5. Chill and Blend the Flavors
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes. This step is key as it helps the flavors meld beautifully!
6. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, give the salad a quick toss one more time. If you like, sprinkle some fresh dill or parsley on top for a lovely finishing touch.
Now, dig in and enjoy your fresh, crunchy, and flavorful everything bagel cucumber salad—it’s perfect as a side or a light lunch!
FAQ for Easy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Vinegar for the Dressing?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any vinegar you prefer, such as red wine vinegar or white vinegar. Each will add a slightly different flavor profile to the dressing but will still taste great!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just remember to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. For the best texture, try to consume it within 24 hours to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some moisture, so give it a quick toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For a bit of extra zing, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint. You can also mix in some cherry tomatoes or avocado for added color and texture!
