These Everything Bagel Cucumber Bites are a fun and fresh snack! With crunchy cucumbers topped with creamy cheese and everything bagel seasoning, they’re sure to please everyone.
They’re super easy to make. Just slice your cucumber and spread on the cheese, then sprinkle on that tasty seasoning. Perfect for parties or a healthy treat any time! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: Use a large cucumber for nice, thick rounds. If you can’t find one, mini cucumbers work too! They may be smaller but they have great flavor.
Cream Cheese: This gives a rich, creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider Neufchâtel cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese substitute if you’re vegan.
Greek Yogurt: The yogurt adds a nice tang and helps lighten the creaminess. You can skip it if you prefer pure cream cheese, but it does enhance the flavor nicely.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: This is the star here! If you run out, you can make your own mix with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, onion flakes, and a bit of salt. It’s fun to customize the blend too!
How Do I Get the Cream Cheese Mixture Just Right?
Mixing the cream cheese can be tricky if it’s too thick. Start with softened cream cheese to make it easier. If you use Greek yogurt, it thins the mix, making it easier to spread!
- Combine all ingredients until smooth in a bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- If you want a fancier presentation, consider using a piping bag to apply the cream cheese on cucumber slices.
- Keep an eye on the seasoning blend. You want a perfect amount sprinkled on top for that bagel flavor.
Everything Bagel Cucumber Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber, washed and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (optional, to lighten the cream cheese)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or homemade blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, coarse salt)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time. It’s a quick and easy snack to whip up, making it perfect for parties or a light lunch! Just prepare everything, assemble, and they’re ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a fork or a mixer to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if you like!
2. Arrange the Cucumber Slices:
Take your sliced cucumber rounds and arrange them on a serving platter. This will be the base for your bites, so make sure they’re all flat and ready to go!
3. Add the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Using a small spoon or a piping bag, scoop or pipe a small mound of the cream cheese mixture on top of each cucumber slice. You want enough to make it tasty, but not so much that it overflows!
4. Sprinkle the Everything Bagel Seasoning:
Now for the fun part! Generously sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over each cream cheese topped cucumber. This gives your bites that signature flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Everything Bagel Cucumber Bites are now ready to be enjoyed! They are best served immediately, but if you need to prepare them ahead of time, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving. Enjoy these fresh, crunchy snacks at your next gathering or whenever you need a tasty treat!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works just as well as regular cream cheese. It will give you a lighter option while still keeping the creamy texture you want for these bites.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! These cucumber bites can be assembled up to 2 hours in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. Beyond that timeframe, the cucumbers might get a bit soggy.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can skip it altogether or use sour cream for a similar tangy flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or an avocado-based spread to maintain creaminess.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover cucumber bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, they are best enjoyed fresh, as the cucumbers can become watery over time.
