CAVA Persian Cucumber Recipe (Just Like the Restaurant Version)

You all know I’m a big fan of CAVA and some of the best things at CAVA are not the main proteins or spreads. They are the little toppings that somehow pull the whole bowl together.

This CAVA Persian Cucumber Recipe is a perfect example of that. It sits quietly between all the bigger flavors, but once you taste this persian cucumber salad, you notice how much freshness and crunch it brings to every bite.

After sharing many CAVA copycat recipes here, the persian cucumber from CAVA was one I kept coming back to. It looks incredibly simple. Just cucumbers, a few pantry ingredients, and a quick toss.

But that light mix of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and seasoning creates a flavor that is fresh, savory, and surprisingly addictive.

What I love most about this CAVA Persian cucumber salad is how easy it is to make at home.

In less than 10 minutes, you can have the same crisp cucumber salad ready for grain bowls, wraps, lunch plates, or even a quick snack straight from the fridge.

It’s simple food, but sometimes simple food is exactly what keeps you coming back for another bite.

CAVA Persian Cucumber vs Traditional Persian Cucumber Salad

A traditional Persian cucumber salad usually includes fresh herbs, onions, tomatoes, lemon juice, and sometimes yogurt. The focus stays on fresh vegetables and bright flavors.

This persian cucumber by CAVA takes a different path. Instead of herbs and tomatoes, it uses rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and Everything But The Bagel seasoning. The flavor leans more toward savory and slightly nutty rather than citrusy.

I enjoy both versions, but this copycat CAVA cucumber salad feels quicker and easier for busy days. It has fewer ingredients, takes less prep work, and still delivers a lot of flavor in every bite.

Perfect For

Busy weekday lunches – When your sandwich, wrap, or leftovers need something fresh on the side, this crisp cucumber salad comes together in minutes.

Mediterranean bowls at home – Spoon it over rice bowls, grain bowls, or homemade CAVA-inspired bowls for extra crunch and flavor in every bite.

Light afternoon snacking – Sometimes you want something refreshing instead of chips or heavier snacks. A bowl of these seasoned cucumbers does the trick.

Easy weeknight dinners – Pair it with grilled chicken, salmon, steak, or roasted vegetables when dinner needs a simple, fresh side dish.

Summer cookouts and BBQs – The cool, tangy flavors balance rich grilled foods perfectly, making it a great addition to outdoor meals.

Meal prep for the week – Make a batch ahead and add it to lunch containers, bowls, or salads throughout the next day or two.

Wraps, pitas, and sandwiches – Tuck a few spoonfuls inside wraps and sandwiches for a refreshing crunch that instantly upgrades the whole meal.

When you want something quick but flavorful – This recipe takes only a few minutes to make, yet it adds the kind of fresh, savory flavor that makes a meal feel complete.

CAVA Persian Cucumber Ingredients

1 large Persian cucumber – I slice it thin for the best crunch. Persian cucumbers have fewer seeds and a crisp texture that holds up well in the dressing without getting watery too quickly.

2 tablespoons rice vinegar – This adds a light tangy flavor that keeps the salad fresh and bright. I like using plain unseasoned rice vinegar so the other flavors can shine through.

2 tablespoons soy sauce – Soy sauce brings a savory, salty flavor that balances the freshness of the cucumber. I usually use regular soy sauce, but low-sodium works great too.

2 tablespoons sesame oil – A little sesame oil adds rich nutty flavor and gives the dressing its signature taste. I prefer toasted sesame oil for the most flavor.

Everything But The Bagel (EBTB) seasoning, to taste – This seasoning adds garlic, onion, sesame seeds, and a little crunch. I use Trader Joe’s version, but any brand works just fine.

Swap Options and Flavor Variations

• English Cucumber: If Persian cucumbers are not available, I use English cucumber. It stays crisp and works almost the same way.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Great when you want less salt without losing the savory flavor.
• White Wine Vinegar: Rice vinegar is best, but white wine vinegar works in a pinch.
• Tamari: A good option for a gluten-free version while keeping a similar flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Add extra sesame seeds if you want more crunch and texture.
• Red Pepper Flakes: I sometimes add a pinch for a little heat.
• Green Onions: Thin slices add freshness and color without changing the recipe too much.
• Avocado: Small diced avocado creates a richer version of the salad.

How To Make CAVA Persian Cucumber Salad

Step 1 | Slice the Cucumber

Wash the Persian cucumber well under cool water. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the cucumber into thin and even rounds. Place all slices into a medium mixing bowl. Thin slices help the cucumber absorb the dressing faster and create the best texture.

Step 2 | Add the Dressing Ingredients

Pour the rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil directly over the cucumber slices. These three ingredients build the entire flavor base. The vinegar adds brightness, the soy sauce brings savory depth, and the sesame oil gives the salad its signature nutty taste.

Step 3 | Toss Everything Together

Using a spoon or tongs, gently toss the cucumbers until every slice gets coated with the dressing. Continue mixing for about 30 seconds. This helps spread the flavors evenly throughout the bowl.

Step 4 | Add the Seasoning

Sprinkle Everything But The Bagel seasoning over the dressed cucumbers. Start with a small amount and add more if needed. Toss again until the seasoning sticks evenly to the cucumber slices.

Step 5 | Rest and Serve

Serve the persian cucumber salad immediately if you like extra crisp cucumbers. For a stronger flavor, let the salad sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving or keep it in fridge. The dressing will soak into the cucumber slices and create a more flavorful bite.

Quick Tips for a Perfect Persian Cucumber Salad

Slice the cucumbers as thin as possible. I usually aim for very thin rounds because they absorb the dressing faster and give the salad that light, restaurant-style texture you get from the Persian cucumber from CAVA.

Choose firm Persian cucumbers with smooth skin. Softer cucumbers tend to release more water and become mushy sooner. Fresh, crisp cucumbers hold their texture much better after the dressing is added.

Start light with the Everything But The Bagel seasoning. Different brands can vary in saltiness. I always add a little first, toss the salad, taste it, and then decide if it needs more.

Give the salad a few minutes to rest before serving. About 5 to 10 minutes is enough time for the rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil to coat every slice and build more flavor.

Don’t pour in extra soy sauce right away. The cucumbers naturally release moisture as they sit, which slightly thins the dressing. What seems lightly seasoned at first may taste perfect a few minutes later.

Chill the cucumber before slicing if you have time. A cold cucumber creates an even crisper bite, especially during warmer months when you want the salad to feel extra refreshing.

Toss gently instead of stirring aggressively. Thin cucumber slices can break apart if mixed too hard. A light toss keeps the slices intact and helps the salad look better when served.

Serve it the same day whenever possible. This salad tastes best while the cucumbers are still crisp. The longer it sits, the softer the cucumber becomes and the more liquid collects in the bowl.

What To Serve With This CAVA Persian Cucumber

Grilled Chicken Breast – The cool cucumber salad balances the warm, seasoned chicken perfectly. If your chicken has bold spices or a smoky finish, this fresh side helps keep every bite from feeling too heavy.

Salmon Fillets – You get a nice contrast between rich, flaky salmon and the crisp cucumber slices. The sesame and vinegar dressing also complements seafood without covering up its natural flavor.

Mediterranean Rice Bowls – Add a scoop right over your rice bowl for extra crunch. It works especially well alongside hummus, roasted vegetables, olives, and other Mediterranean-inspired toppings.

Falafel – Crispy falafel and refreshing cucumber salad are a great match. The fresh cucumber helps balance the hearty texture of the falafel while adding a bright layer of flavor.

Hummus and Pita Bread – Serve this salad next to creamy hummus and warm pita for an easy lunch or snack plate. The crisp cucumbers add texture that makes the whole meal more interesting.

Steak and Roasted Vegetables – When serving a richer dinner, this cucumber salad brings a lighter element to the plate. The tangy dressing cuts through the richness and keeps the meal balanced.

Turkey Wraps – Tuck a spoonful into your favorite turkey wrap or enjoy it on the side. The crunchy cucumber adds freshness that pairs nicely with sliced turkey and soft tortillas.

Chicken Shawarma – The bold spices in chicken shawarma pair beautifully with the cool cucumber salad. You get a mix of savory, fresh, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Quinoa Bowls – Add this salad to quinoa bowls when you want extra texture without much effort. The simple dressing blends naturally with grains, vegetables, and protein toppings.

Rice Pilaf – A serving of cucumber salad next to rice pilaf creates a simple but satisfying combination. The fresh crunch helps break up the softer texture of the rice and makes the meal feel complete.

Sumac Slaw – If you’ve already made a batch of sumac slaw, serve it alongside this Persian cucumber salad for a fresh Lebanese-inspired combination. The tangy sumac flavor, crisp cabbage, and crunchy cucumber create layers of texture that work beautifully together on a mezze plate, grain bowl, or shawarma platter.

Storing & Reuse Leftovers

How to Store

Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. The salad stays best for about 1 to 2 days. The cucumber may release extra liquid as it sits, which is normal. Give it a quick stir before serving again.

How to Reuse Leftovers

Leftover Persian cucumber salad can be added to grain bowls, tucked into wraps, or served alongside grilled chicken and salmon the next day. You can also spoon it over hummus, rice, or quinoa for extra crunch and flavor without any additional prep.

CAVA Persian Cucumber Recipe FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare it a few hours ahead. For the best texture, I recommend serving it within the same day. The cucumbers stay crisper and the dressing flavor remains balanced.

Can I use regular cucumbers?

Yes. Regular cucumbers can work. I suggest removing some seeds if they are large. Persian or English cucumbers usually provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe.

Is this persian cucumber salad recipe gluten-free?

Traditional soy sauce contains gluten. Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce if you need a gluten-free version of this cucumber salad recipe.

Why are Persian cucumbers preferred?

Persian cucumbers have thin skin, very small seeds, and a crisp texture. They also contain less water than many standard cucumbers, making them ideal for salads.

How long can this salad stay in the refrigerator?

For the best quality, enjoy it within 1 to 2 days. After that, the cucumbers can become softer and lose some of their fresh crunch.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely. Thinly sliced radishes, green onions, carrots, or bell peppers work well. They add color, texture, and extra flavor without changing the salad too much.

What does Everything But The Bagel seasoning add?

It provides garlic, onion, sesame seeds, and crunchy texture. It also adds the signature flavor that helps this salad taste similar to the CAVA version.

Is this a good meal prep recipe?

Yes. It works well for meal prep lunches and grain bowls. Just remember that cucumbers soften over time, so it is best enjoyed within a day or two.

Can I serve this at room temperature?

Yes. While I prefer it chilled, serving it at cool room temperature still tastes great. Just avoid leaving it out for extended periods.

This CAVA Persian Cucumber Recipe proves that simple ingredients can create big flavor. The mix of crisp cucumber, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and Everything But The Bagel seasoning comes together in just minutes.

I keep returning to this Persian cucumber salad because it is fresh, easy, and works with so many meals.

If you enjoy quick cucumber side dishes, healthy Mediterranean-inspired recipes, and easy homemade CAVA copycat recipes, give this one a try.