This fun salad brings all the yummy flavors of an everything bagel to your table! It features crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for that special touch.
Honestly, how great is it to eat a salad that tastes like your favorite bagel? I love adding cream cheese for a creamy twist that makes it even better. So refreshing and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I love using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them super crisp. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work just fine. Just peel them if the skin is too thick!
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems add great flavor. For variety, try using grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is my first choice for its creamy texture, but if you prefer something lighter, go for crumbled feta or goat cheese. They both add a nice tangy flavor!
Everything Bagel Seasoning: You can easily make your own if you have sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, onion flakes, and salt. Or, use store-bought for ease. It’s a great way to add flavor without extra effort!
How Do You Combine All the Ingredients Without Breaking the Cream Cheese?
Mixing the ingredients carefully is key to keeping the cream cheese intact. After adding your veggies and cream cheese to the bowl, it’s best to toss them gently. You can try this method:
- Start with the cucumbers and tomatoes at the bottom.
- Add the diced cream cheese on top.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over everything.
- Finally, sprinkle the seasoning and gently fold the salad until just mixed.
This way, the cream cheese stays in cubes and adds delicious pockets of creaminess throughout the salad! Enjoy your fresh creation!
Fresh Everything Bagel Salad with Cucumber
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, cubed (or crumbled feta as an alternative)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping:
- 1/4 cup toasted bagel chips or cubed toasted bagel pieces for crunch
Time Needed:
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 15-20 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each bite extra tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. It’s important to get nice, even slices so every bite is filled with flavor!
2. Add Creaminess:
Next, gently toss in the cubes of cream cheese (or feta if you’re using that). Be careful not to break them up too much; we want those creamy chunks to stand out in the salad!
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture. Then, sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning evenly on top. This is where the salad starts to really shine!
4. Toss Gently:
Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss everything together. The goal is to mix the ingredients without smashing the cream cheese. You want every bite to be a delightful combination of textures!
5. Season and Add Crunch:
Now, taste the salad and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, sprinkle in some toasted bagel chips or cubed toasted bagel pieces on top for that perfect crunch.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving. This will really help the flavors mingle. When you’re ready to enjoy, serve it as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch on its own!
FAQ for Fresh Everything Bagel Salad with Cucumber
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. You can add bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for extra creaminess. Just be sure to keep similar textures in mind!
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best enjoyed within 2 days, but be aware that the cucumbers might become a bit soggy over time.
What If I’m Allergic to Cream Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy alternative, or try a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare all the ingredients and mix them together at least a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing and any crunchy toppings until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and crisp.
