Pin It I was halfway through an afternoon slump when I grabbed a cucumber from the crisper and spotted the everything bagel seasoning sitting on the counter. No plan, just hunger and curiosity. I tossed thick spears into a mason jar, dumped in the seasoning, and shook it like I was mixing a cocktail. The sound alone—seeds rattling against glass, cucumber thunking around—woke me up before I even took a bite. It tasted better than it had any right to, and I've kept a jar of that seasoning within arm's reach ever since.
I started making this during video calls when I needed something to do with my hands that wasn't chips. My coworker heard the shaking through the mic once and asked if I was making a drink. When I held up the jar of cucumber, she laughed, then tried it herself the next day. Now we both keep jars prepped in the fridge and compare whose seasoning blend is better.
Ingredients
- English cucumber: The thin skin means no peeling, and the low seed count keeps it crisp without getting watery.
- Everything bagel seasoning: This is what makes the whole thing work, bringing salt, garlic, onion, and sesame in one shake.
- Kosher salt: Only add this if your seasoning blend is light on salt, otherwise it can tip over into too salty.
- Olive oil or sesame oil: A tiny drizzle helps the seasoning cling and adds a richer, almost roasted flavor.
- Lemon juice or rice vinegar: Just a splash brightens the whole thing and makes it taste less like raw vegetable, more like a quick pickle.
Instructions
- Prep the cucumber:
- Wash it well and pat it dry so the seasoning sticks instead of sliding off. Cut it into thick rounds or long spears, whichever feels better to grab and eat.
- Load the jar:
- Drop the cucumber into a jar or container with a lid that seals tight. A mason jar works perfectly and makes a satisfying sound when you shake it.
- Add the seasoning and extras:
- Sprinkle in the everything bagel seasoning, salt if you want it, a drizzle of oil if you like richness, and a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar for tang. Don't overthink the amounts, just add what sounds good.
- Shake it hard:
- Seal the lid and shake the jar like you're trying to wake it up. Ten to fifteen seconds is enough to coat every piece evenly.
- Eat or wait:
- You can eat it right away for maximum crunch, or let it sit in the fridge for half an hour if you want the flavors to settle in a little deeper.
Pin It One night I made a huge batch and brought it to a party expecting no one to care. It sat next to the chips and dip, and within twenty minutes the jar was empty and three people asked for the recipe. Someone said it tasted like the best part of a bagel without the carbs, and I think that's exactly why it works.
What to Add for More Flavor
A handful of cubed feta or mozzarella turns this into something more substantial without losing the crunch. I've also thrown in halved cherry tomatoes when I had them, and the juice mixed with the seasoning created this accidental dressing at the bottom of the jar. If you want heat, a pinch of chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce before shaking does the job.
How to Store and Serve
This is best eaten within an hour of making it, while the cucumber is still firm and cold. If you prep it ahead, keep the seasoning separate and shake it right before serving. I've tried leaving it overnight, and the cucumber gets soft and weepy, which isn't terrible but it's not the same crisp snap you want.
When It Works Best
I make this most often in the middle of the afternoon when I want something that feels like a snack but doesn't wreck my appetite for dinner. It's also perfect after a workout, on a hot day, or when you need to bring something to a gathering and don't want to turn on the oven.
- Use a mandoline if you want perfectly even slices, but a knife works fine.
- Try this with radishes, carrots, or bell pepper strips for a different crunch.
- If you're avoiding sesame, swap the everything bagel seasoning for garlic powder, onion powder, and poppy seeds.
Pin It This is the kind of thing that makes you feel like you cooked even though you didn't really cook at all. Keep a jar of seasoning around and a cucumber in the fridge, and you'll always have something good to shake up.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cucumber is best for this dish?
A large English cucumber is ideal due to its crisp texture and minimal seeds, which help keep the shake fresh and crunchy.
- → Can I use other seasonings instead of everything bagel seasoning?
Yes, you can experiment with chili flakes, za'atar, or herb blends to customize the flavor while maintaining the crunchy texture.
- → Is it necessary to refrigerate after shaking?
Refrigeration for up to 30 minutes helps meld flavors but serving immediately retains the maximum crunch and freshness.
- → How can I add richness to the flavor?
Adding a teaspoon of olive or sesame oil softens the seasoning's intensity and adds depth without masking the cucumber’s freshness.
- → Are there any allergy concerns with the seasoning?
Everything bagel seasoning often contains sesame seeds. Consider a sesame-free blend if allergies exist, and always check labels for gluten or onion traces.