Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad

The Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad is a delightful and refreshing twist on your favorite bagel topping! With crisp cucumbers and red onion tossed in a creamy, savory dressing flavored with everything bagel seasoning, this salad is perfect for a quick side dish or a light lunch. The cream cheese adds richness, while the seasoning brings that familiar bagel flavor, making this salad a crowd-pleaser that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. A Fresh Take on Bagel Flavors: The salad gives you the delicious taste of an everything bagel without the carbs. The creamy dressing is full of flavor with the added bonus of tangy cucumbers and onions.
2. Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this salad can be made in under 10 minutes. Let it chill for 30 minutes, and you’re good to go!
3. Healthy and Refreshing: Cucumbers and onions are light and fresh, making this a healthy addition to any meal, whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a snack.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad stores well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. It’s a delicious, convenient side dish you can keep on hand for several days.
5. Versatile: Serve this salad with grilled meats, on top of greens, or even as a snack on its own. The flavor pairing is simple yet satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers, sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Slice the cucumbers and onions: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

2. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, everything bagel seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cream cheese is smooth and the mixture is well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

3. Toss the salad: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the sliced cucumbers and onions. Toss until everything is well coated in the dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

4. Refrigerate: For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.

Tips for Success

• For a smoother dressing: If the cream cheese is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more olive oil or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, to give the salad more color and flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning: The amount of everything bagel seasoning can be adjusted to taste depending on how strong you want the flavor to be.
• Serve Immediately or Make Ahead: This salad can be served immediately, but letting it chill in the fridge for a bit will enhance the flavors.

How to Serve

This Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. It also works as a side to sandwiches, burgers, or wraps. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a hearty grain bowl or mixed greens.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The cucumbers may lose a bit of their crunch, but the flavors will continue to develop and remain delicious.
• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the cucumbers and dressing may lose their texture when thawed.
• Reheating: This salad is meant to be served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of onion? Yes, you can substitute red onion with white or yellow onion, though red onion adds a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.
2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese will work as well, though the texture might be a bit different.
3. How can I make this salad dairy-free? Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or a plant-based cream cheese.
4. How long should I refrigerate the salad? For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Can I add more seasoning? Feel free to adjust the amount of everything bagel seasoning according to your taste.
6. Is this recipe vegetarian? Yes, this recipe is vegetarian.
7. Can I use flavored cream cheese? Flavored cream cheeses such as chive or garlic could work for a fun twist, but it may change the flavor profile.
8. How can I make this salad spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
9. What other toppings can I add? You can add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to enhance the flavor.
10. Can I serve this at a party? Absolutely! This salad makes a great appetizer or side dish at parties and gatherings.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Everything Bagel Salad is a light, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich, creamy dressing and the familiar flavors of an everything bagel, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold and refreshing flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a quick, healthy snack, this salad is a keeper!

Print