This Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad takes your everyday cucumber salad and transforms it into a flavor-packed, refreshing side dish with the beloved “everything bagel” twist. Featuring cool, crisp cucumbers tossed in a creamy sour cream dressing, laced with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and just the right amount of vinegar tang—this dish is a summer favorite in every bite.
It’s quick to prep, naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or enjoyed straight from the bowl for a light snack. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or looking for a crisp side to round out your weeknight dinner, this salad brings bold flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A refreshing alternative to traditional creamy salads
- Everything bagel seasoning adds a savory twist
- Only 5 minutes of hands-on prep
- Great make-ahead option
- Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers, thinly sliced (peeled and deseeded if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon salt + more to taste
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper + more to taste
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
Place sliced cucumbers in a colander set over the sink or a large bowl. Toss with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour to draw out excess water.
Step 2: Rinse and Dry
After resting, gently rinse cucumbers under cool water to remove excess salt. Press them down with clean hands or pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, everything bagel seasoning, white vinegar, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a mixing bowl, combine the dried cucumbers, sliced red onion, and the dressing. Toss well to coat.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor development.
Tips for Success
- Use seedless English cucumbers for a crunchier texture
- Letting the salad chill enhances the seasoning blend
- Add fresh dill or chives for a herby upgrade
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a protein boost
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The salad may release water over time—just stir before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free sour cream alternative or unsweetened coconut yogurt.
What’s in everything bagel seasoning?
Typically includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt.
Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yes, but be sure to peel and deseed them for best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad proves that simplicity can deliver big, bold flavors. It’s fresh, crunchy, and bursting with that savory, tangy kick we all love from everything bagels—without the carbs. Easy enough for weeknight meals and impressive enough for summer gatherings, it’s the side dish you’ll keep coming back to.
Customize it, chill it, and enjoy it as the ultimate refreshing salad that upgrades any meal or stands proudly on its own.
Share Your Creations
Tried this crunchy twist on cucumber salad? Snap a pic and tag it with #EverythingCucumberSalad or #SummerSaladTwist to show off your fresh creation on Instagram or Pinterest.
Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad
Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers thinly sliced (peeled and deseeded if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon salt + more to taste
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper + more to taste
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
- Place sliced cucumbers in a colander set over the sink or a large bowl. Toss with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour to draw out excess water.
Step 2: Rinse and Dry
- After resting, gently rinse cucumbers under cool water to remove excess salt. Press them down with clean hands or pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, everything bagel seasoning, white vinegar, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dried cucumbers, sliced red onion, and the dressing. Toss well to coat.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor development.
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