Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Summer Dish

When it comes to summer salads, few things are as refreshing as a crisp cucumber salad. But what if we told you there’s a way to take this classic dish to the next level? Enter the Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad—a delightful combination of cool cucumbers, tangy sour cream, and the irresistible flavors of everything bagel seasoning. This recipe is not only easy to make but also naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for all dietary preferences.

In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about this unique salad, from its simple preparation to its nutritional benefits. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a light lunch, or a flavorful addition to your next picnic, this Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad is sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad

1. Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time and a handful of ingredients, this salad comes together in no time.
2. Bursting with Flavor: The everything bagel seasoning adds a savory, crunchy element that elevates the humble cucumber to new heights.
3. Perfect for Summer: Cool, refreshing, and light, this salad is ideal for hot summer days.
4. Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, a topping for grilled proteins, or even as a dip with pita chips.
5. Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, this salad caters to a variety of dietary needs.

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Ingredients for Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious salad:

• 2 English cucumbers: Thinly sliced, peeled, and deseeded if desired. English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
• 1 teaspoon salt: For drawing out excess moisture from the cucumbers.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang to the dressing.
• 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning: The star of the show! This seasoning blend typically includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt.
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar: Provides a subtle tang to balance the richness of the sour cream.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a hint of spice.
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion: Adds a pop of color and a mild bite.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

1. Thinly slice the cucumbers. If you prefer a less watery salad, peel and deseed them.
2. Toss the cucumber slices with 1 teaspoon of salt in a colander placed over the sink or a bowl.
3. Let the cucumbers rest for 30 minutes to an hour. This step helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring your salad isn’t soggy.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry the Cucumbers

1. After 30 minutes, gently rinse the cucumbers under cold water to remove the excess salt.
2. Press the cucumbers down with your hands to squeeze out any remaining moisture, or pat them dry using paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, everything bagel seasoning, white vinegar, and black pepper.
2. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onion, and dressing.
2. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

1. For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
2. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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The Magic of Everything Bagel Seasoning

Everything bagel seasoning has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. This versatile blend typically includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt, creating a savory, crunchy, and aromatic mix that elevates any dish it touches. Its popularity stems from its ability to add depth and texture to both simple and complex recipes.

In the Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad, this seasoning plays a starring role. It transforms a basic cucumber salad into a flavor-packed dish that’s anything but ordinary. The sesame and poppy seeds provide a satisfying crunch, while the garlic and onion add a savory umami flavor that complements the cool, crisp cucumbers perfectly.

One of the best things about everything bagel seasoning is its versatility. While it’s traditionally used to top bagels, it can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes. Sprinkle it on avocado toast, use it as a rub for roasted vegetables, or mix it into dips and spreads for an extra burst of flavor. Its gluten-free nature (when using a certified blend) also makes it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

When choosing everything bagel seasoning for your Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad, opt for a high-quality blend. Some store-bought versions may contain additives or preservatives, so check the ingredient list to ensure you’re getting a pure and flavorful mix. Alternatively, you can make your own seasoning at home by combining equal parts sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and flaky sea salt.

The beauty of this seasoning lies in its ability to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients it’s paired with. In this salad, it brings out the freshness of the cucumbers and adds a tangy, savory element that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re a long-time fan of everything bagel seasoning or trying it for the first time, this salad is the perfect way to showcase its magic.

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 The Health Benefits of Cucumbers

Cucumbers are more than just a refreshing addition to salads—they’re a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals, and hydration. In the Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad, cucumbers take center stage, providing a crisp and cooling base that’s both delicious and good for you.

One of the standout benefits of cucumbers is their high water content. Composed of about 95% water, cucumbers are incredibly hydrating, making them an excellent choice for hot summer days or after a workout. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels, supporting digestion, and promoting healthy skin.

In addition to their hydrating properties, cucumbers are low in calories but rich in nutrients. They’re a good source of vitamin K, which plays a key role in bone health and blood clotting, as well as vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health. Cucumbers also contain small amounts of potassium, magnesium, and manganese, all of which contribute to overall well-being.

Another benefit of cucumbers is their antioxidant content. They contain compounds like flavonoids and tannins, which help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress. These antioxidants may also support heart health by lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels.

For those looking to maintain or lose weight, cucumbers are an ideal addition to your diet. Their high water and fiber content help you feel full without adding excess calories, making them a great choice for snacking or as part of a balanced meal.

In the Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad, the cucumbers are paired with a tangy, savory dressing that enhances their natural flavor without overpowering it. This combination not only tastes great but also provides a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad is a delicious way to reap the health benefits of cucumbers.

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 Customizing Your Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad

One of the best things about the Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad is its versatility. While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:

1. Add Protein: Turn this salad into a more substantial meal by adding a protein source. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are all excellent options that pair well with the flavors of the salad.
2. Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro can add a burst of flavor and a pop of color to the dish. Simply chop them finely and mix them into the dressing or sprinkle them on top before serving.
3. Experiment with Vegetables: While cucumbers are the star of the show, you can add other vegetables for extra texture and nutrition. Try tossing in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado for a creamy contrast.
4. Switch Up the Dressing: If you’re not a fan of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt. For a lighter option, try a vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey.
5. Add a Crunchy Element: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding croutons, toasted nuts, or seeds. These additions not only enhance the crunch factor but also provide additional nutrients.
6. Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. This will give the salad a subtle kick that balances the coolness of the cucumbers.
7. Go Vegan: To make this salad vegan, simply replace the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and ensure your everything bagel seasoning is free of animal-derived ingredients.

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Nutritional Information

This Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad is not only delicious but also relatively low in calories and packed with nutrients. Here’s the breakdown per serving (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 91
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 14mg
• Sodium: 756mg
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 2g

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Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
• Freezing: Due to the sour cream in the dressing, freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but they tend to have more seeds and thicker skin. Be sure to peel and deseed them for the best texture.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great alternative to sour cream. It provides a similar tanginess and creaminess while adding a boost of protein.

Is everything bagel seasoning gluten-free?

Most everything bagel seasoning blends are gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure, especially if you’re serving someone with gluten intolerance.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the sour cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or vegan sour cream.

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Why This Salad is a Must-Try

The Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad is more than just a salad—it’s a flavor-packed experience that combines the cool crunch of cucumbers with the savory, aromatic notes of everything bagel seasoning. It’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious, perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to summer barbecues.

So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, refreshing, and flavorful dish, give this recipe a try. With its simple preparation and irresistible taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your summer recipe collection.

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Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about combining simple ingredients to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. The Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad is a perfect example of this. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.