This Fresh and Crunchy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad is a perfect mix of cool, crisp cucumbers and the savory taste of everything bagel seasoning. It’s super refreshing!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just chop some cucumbers, sprinkle with seasoning, and voilà! It’s a great side for any meal, or even a tasty snack. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers for their crisp texture and low seeds. If you can’t find them, Persian cucumbers are a great alternative as they’re sweet and crunchy too.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: This sprinkle mix is what gives the salad its unique flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, you can make your own mix with toasted sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, onion, and salt.
Red Onion: Using red onion adds a nice color and kick. However, if you prefer a milder taste, you can swap it for green onions or leave it out completely.
Fresh Dill: Dill provides a fresh flavor that complements the cucumbers. If dill isn’t your favorite, try substituting with parsley or just skip it altogether!
How Do I Make Sure My Cucumbers Stay Crunchy?
The crunch factor is key for this salad! To keep your cucumbers crisp, try these tips:
- Use fresh cucumbers, and slice them just before serving to enhance their snap.
- After slicing, sprinkle a little salt on the cucumbers and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This draws out excess water, preventing a soggy salad.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend while keeping everything cold and firm.
Fresh and Crunchy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 large English cucumbers (or 4-5 Persian cucumbers), thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional for extra crunch and flavor)
- 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fresh and Crunchy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 15-20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any meal or as a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Then, thinly slice them and place them in a large mixing bowl. If you’re using red onion, slice that thinly too and add it to the bowl. This will add a lovely crunch and flavor to your salad.
2. Mix in Fresh Dill:
If you’ve chosen to use fresh dill, chop it finely and add it to the bowl. This will brighten up the flavors! Gently mix everything to combine.
3. Add the Dressing:
Drizzle the olive oil and your choice of lemon juice or vinegar over the cucumber mixture. This will add flavor and a touch of acidity to the salad.
4. Season the Salad:
Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning evenly over the cucumbers, along with the salt and pepper. This is where the magic happens! It’s what makes the salad so delicious.
5. Toss and Combine:
Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are well coated with the dressing and seasoning. Be careful not to mash the cucumbers—they should stay crisp!
6. Chill for Best Flavor:
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully while keeping the cucumbers nice and crisp.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, take the salad out and give it a quick toss. Serve it up as a refreshing side dish or a light snack. Enjoy the crunchy, flavorful goodness that is your Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad!
FAQ for Fresh and Crunchy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Regular Cucumbers Instead of English or Persian?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but keep in mind that they have more seeds and a tougher skin. If you do decide to use them, you may want to peel the skin and scoop out the seeds to maintain a crunchy texture in your salad.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the cucumbers may release water and lose some of their crunchiness over time.
What If I Don’t Have Everything Bagel Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own by mixing equal parts sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and sea salt. Adjust the amounts to your taste to get that perfect everything flavor!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You could add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, avocado, or even feta cheese for an extra flavor boost. Just keep the overall texture in mind to maintain that crunchy feel!
