Save to Pinterest I was standing at the fridge one afternoon, staring at a lone cucumber and craving something salty and crunchy without the guilt of chips. I spotted the jar of everything bagel seasoning on the counter and thought, why not? I tossed the cucumber slices into a container, shook it hard, and ended up with the most satisfying snack I'd had in weeks. Now it's my go-to when I need something quick, crisp, and full of flavor without turning on a single burner.
I made this for a friend who was trying to snack smarter, and she looked at me like I'd just handed her a cheat code. We sat on the porch with our jars, shaking them like maracas and laughing at how ridiculously simple it was. She texted me the next day saying she'd already made it twice. That's when I knew this little trick was a keeper.
Ingredients
- English cucumber: The thin skin and mild flavor make it perfect for eating raw, and chilling it first gives you that extra snap when you bite down.
- Everything bagel seasoning: This is where all the magic lives—sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt in one shake.
- Kosher salt: Only add this if your seasoning blend is mild or if you're a salt lover like me.
- Olive oil or sesame oil: A tiny drizzle helps the seasoning stick and adds a silky richness that makes each bite feel more indulgent.
- Lemon juice or rice vinegar: Just a splash brightens everything up and cuts through the oil with a little zing.
Instructions
- Prep the cucumber:
- Wash it well, pat it dry, and slice it into thick rounds or spears depending on your mood. Thicker pieces give you more crunch and a better surface for the seasoning to cling to.
- Load the jar:
- Drop the cucumber into a jar or container with a lid that seals tight. This is where the fun begins.
- Add the flavor:
- Sprinkle in the everything bagel seasoning, salt if you want it, a drizzle of oil, and a squeeze of lemon or vinegar. Don't be shy with the seasoning.
- Shake it up:
- Seal the lid and shake like you're mixing a cocktail—10 to 15 seconds of vigorous shaking does the trick. You'll hear the cucumbers tumbling around, and that's exactly what you want.
- Serve or chill:
- Eat it right away for maximum crunch, or let it sit in the fridge for half an hour if you want the flavors to soak in a little deeper.
Save to Pinterest One evening I made a double batch and brought it to a summer picnic, and people kept asking what restaurant I ordered it from. I had to explain three times that it was just cucumber and seasoning. It became the unexpected star of the table, and I went home with an empty jar and a dozen recipe requests.
Serving Suggestions
This works beautifully as a palate cleanser between heavier bites, or as a crunchy side to grilled chicken or fish. I've also tossed it into a wrap with hummus and greens, and it added the perfect salty crunch. If you're feeling fancy, serve it in small cups at a party—people will think you put in way more effort than you did.
Variations to Try
I've swapped in radishes when I wanted something peppery, and carrots when I craved a little sweetness. Bell pepper strips work too, especially the mini sweet ones. One time I added cubed feta and it turned into a full-on salad situation. You can also try ranch seasoning or tajin if you want to switch up the flavor profile entirely.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This is best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them in the fridge in a sealed container. They'll stay good for about a day, though the cucumber will start to release water and get a little softer. If you're meal prepping, slice the cucumbers ahead and store them separately from the seasoning, then shake them together right before you eat.
- Don't add the oil or acid until you're ready to shake and serve, or the cucumbers will get soggy.
- Keep a jar of everything bagel seasoning in your pantry—it's a game changer for so many quick snacks.
- If you're taking this on the go, use a leakproof container and shake it right before you dig in.
Save to Pinterest This little snack has saved me from so many bad vending machine decisions. It's proof that you don't need a recipe with ten steps to make something you'll actually crave.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cucumber is best for this snack?
Use a large English cucumber for its crisp texture and mild flavor, ideal for slicing into thick rounds or spears.
- → Can I substitute everything bagel seasoning?
Yes, a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, onion, and salt mimics the seasoning well if bagel seasoning is unavailable.
- → How long can the cucumber be refrigerated after shaking?
It can be refrigerated up to 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld while keeping the cucumber crisp.
- → Are there optional ingredients to enhance flavor?
Adding olive or sesame oil enriches taste, and lemon juice or rice vinegar introduces a tangy brightness.
- → Can this snack accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, it is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-carb. For sesame allergies, substitute the seasoning blend accordingly.