This Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and creamy side dish that combines crunchy cucumbers, savory bacon, and tangy ranch flavors. It’s the perfect dish for picnics, barbecues, or as a side to any meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes it an irresistible addition to your table!
Servings & Timing
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 7g
(Nutritional values will vary depending on ingredients used.)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
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Prepare the Ingredients:
Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. If you prefer, you can peel them, but the skin adds extra crunch and color.
Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Shred the cheddar cheese and finely dice the red onion. -
Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and finely diced red onion. -
Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning mix. Stir in the fresh dill and season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Assemble the Salad:
Pour the ranch dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss everything together gently until well coated. -
Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra dill if desired.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may release some liquid as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for sour cream, and it will still give the salad a creamy texture.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare this salad a few hours ahead of time or even the night before. Just be sure to store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! You can add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or even cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Q: Can I make this salad vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can leave out the bacon or substitute with a vegetarian bacon alternative for a meatless version of the salad.
Conclusion
This Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a quick, easy, and delicious side dish that brings together the perfect combination of fresh cucumbers, creamy ranch dressing, crunchy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the ideal addition to any meal or a perfect standalone snack.
