Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Absolutely. If using standard cucumbers, peel them if the skin is thick and scoop out any large seeds to prevent excess wateriness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Most everything bagel seasoning mixes are gluten-free, but always double-check the label to be sure. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How long in advance can I prepare this salad?

Slice the vegetables and mix the dressing up to several hours ahead. Combine them just before serving for the freshest texture.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute a dairy-free sour cream alternative or thick coconut yogurt and enjoy all the flavor without the dairy.

Creamy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad Recipe

Ready for a salad that tastes like your favorite bagel shop but takes only minutes to make? This Creamy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad is the answer to every weeknight side dish dilemma. Crisp cucumbers, tangy capers, and a dreamy, herby sour cream dressing—this bowl is fast, wildly flavorful, and perfect for tossing together when you’re short on time but big on cravings. Each bite is bursting with fresh crunch, a pop of dill, and the irresistible savory punch of everything bagel seasoning. Whether you’re serving this alongside a sandwich or just sneaking a forkful from the fridge, this recipe is about pure, easy joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Fast: You can have this salad prepped and on the table in just 10 minutes—yes, really.
Incredible Texture: Crunchy cucumbers and onions pair perfectly with a rich, creamy dressing. There’s no soggy salad here.
Full of Flavor: Thanks to the everything bagel seasoning, every forkful packs a complex, zesty punch that feels far from ordinary.
Weeknight Hero: No fancy equipment, hard-to-find ingredients, or complicated techniques. It’s as simple as slice, mix, and enjoy.
Customizable: This recipe is extremely forgiving. Let your fridge and cravings guide you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sour Cream: Full-fat gives this salad its creamy richness. Greek yogurt is a lighter swap if you prefer.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the creaminess. Always use fresh—bottled just isn’t the same!
Everything Bagel Seasoning: The signature flavor, loaded with sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion. It delivers a burst of crunch and savory complexity throughout.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning as you build the dressing. Adjust to your taste.
Persian Cucumbers: Offer unbeatable crispness and delicate flavor—no need to peel, just slice and enjoy.
Scallions: Lend a mild, sweet onion flavor and add a lovely green color.
Red Onion: Provides sharpness and a bit more bite, plus a gorgeous purple pop.
Fresh Dill: This herb is essential here—its grassy, lemony freshness ties everything together.
Capers: Bring salty, briny notes that keep each bite exciting.
Everything Bagel Seasoning (more for garnish): A final sprinkle amps up the texture and makes the salad pop visually.
Tip: Persian cucumbers are ideal for this salad because they’re thin-skinned and don’t water down the mix. English cucumber works in a pinch—just scoop out the seeds.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to make it your own? Go for it:

Greek Yogurt Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, higher-protein salad.
Avocado Addition: Dice some ripe avocado for extra creaminess and heart-healthy fats.
Different Herbs: Fresh chives or parsley can stand in for (or join) dill if you’re out.
Make it Vegan: Plant-based sour cream or thick coconut yogurt works great.
Add Protein: Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas for a more filling main.
Spicy Kick: A pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce transforms this salad into a bold side.

How to Make Creamy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Whip Up the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine your full-fat sour cream, a splash of zesty fresh lemon juice, and a tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt and some freshly cracked black pepper. Mix it all together until creamy and blended, then set aside.

Step 2: Combine the Crunchy Goodness

In a big salad bowl, toss in sliced Persian cucumbers, sweet scallions, paper-thin red onion, a handful of fresh dill, juicy capers, and the rest of your everything bagel seasoning. The seasoning added directly stays a little crunchy, which is an absolute treat.

Step 3: Dress and Toss

Pour the creamy dressing over the veggies, and gently toss so everything is beautifully coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Scatter a little more everything bagel seasoning over the top for visual appeal and extra crunch. Serve immediately for the crispiest, freshest results.

Note: If you want to prep ahead, slice the veggies and make the dressing, but toss together right before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Slice Evenly: Aim for uniform cucumber slices (about 1/4 inch thick) so every bite tastes balanced.
Let it Sit—But Not Long: Ten minutes of chilling will meld the flavors, but longer than that and things start to go soft.
Fresh Dill Makes a Difference: Don’t skip on the fresh dill; it’s the flavor backbone of this salad.
Use Quality Everything Bagel Seasoning: Some blends go heavy on salt or skimp on real flavor. Choose a good one (or even make your own for control!).

How to Serve

This salad fits just about any occasion! Pair it with grilled fish or chicken for a lightning-fast dinner, or serve alongside sandwiches and wraps for a quick lunch upgrade. It’s spectacular with brunch spreads—think lox, bagels, and smoked salmon platters. Serving it chilled makes it especially refreshing on summer days, and it’s portable enough to bring to a picnic or potluck. Sprinkle a little more everything bagel seasoning on top right before serving for maximum crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad stays fresh and tasty for about 2 days, but it’s best eaten within the first 24 hours for maximal crunch.

Freezing

Not recommended—cucumbers and sour cream don’t freeze well, and you’ll lose that lovely fresh texture.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Just give the salad a quick toss if the dressing has settled, and enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Absolutely. If using standard cucumbers, peel them if the skin is thick and scoop out any large seeds to prevent excess wateriness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?

Most everything bagel seasoning mixes are gluten-free, but always double-check the label to be sure. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How long in advance can I prepare this salad?

Slice the vegetables and mix the dressing up to several hours ahead. Combine them just before serving for the freshest texture.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute a dairy-free sour cream alternative or thick coconut yogurt and enjoy all the flavor without the dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Everything Bagel Cucumber Salad is a little bowl of joy for those who love bold, fresh flavors and nothing-fancy prep. If you need a fast, no-fuss way to liven up any meal, this is your go-to. Don’t be afraid to experiment, play with flavors, and make it your own. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—maybe even doubling the batch, just in case!