Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
Introduction
Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish perfect for warm days or anytime you crave a crisp, creamy salad. It combines fresh cucumbers with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and a tangy ranch dressing for a satisfying crunch and rich taste.
Ingredients
- 2-3 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced thin
- ½ cup creamy ranch dressing
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ⅓ cup crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh green onions, chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried dill weed
- Salt and fresh black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds about ¼ inch thick. Chop the green onions into small pieces. If your bacon isn’t already cooked, fry it until crispy and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Pour the ranch dressing over the cucumber mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried dill weed, and a pinch of salt and fresh black pepper. Be careful with the salt as the bacon and cheese add plenty of flavor.
- Step 4: Gently toss all ingredients until the cucumbers are well coated with the ranch dressing and the flavors are thoroughly mixed.
- Step 5: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and garnish with extra bacon bits or green onions if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute the creamy ranch dressing with a low-fat or yogurt-based ranch.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for extra brightness.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for a more vibrant spice.
- Swap sharp cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, consume it within the first day as cucumbers can become watery over time. Give it a gentle stir before serving chilled again.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. However, it’s best enjoyed within a day to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers and bacon.
Is this salad suitable for low-carb diets?
Absolutely! This salad is low in carbs and high in flavor, making it a great option for those following low-carb or keto-friendly diets.
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Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad that combines crisp cucumber slices with creamy ranch dressing, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Perfect as a quick side dish or a light snack, this salad offers a delicious blend of textures and savory flavors with minimal prep and chilling time.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2–3 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced thin (about ¼ inch thick)
- ½ cup creamy ranch dressing
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ⅓ cup crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh green onions, chopped
Seasonings
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried dill weed
- Salt and fresh black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep Your Vegetables: Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds approximately ¼ inch thick. Chop the green onions finely. If your bacon is not pre-cooked, fry it in a pan over medium heat until crispy, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the Base: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Gently toss together to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Add the Creamy Goodness: Pour the creamy ranch dressing over the cucumber mixture. Sprinkle in garlic powder, dried dill weed, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use salt sparingly since bacon and cheese add saltiness already.
- Mix It All Together: Carefully toss all ingredients until every cucumber slice is coated with the ranch dressing and the seasonings are well incorporated, ensuring consistent flavor throughout.
- Chill and Serve: Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and chill for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve cold and optionally garnish with extra bacon bits or green onions for an added touch.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust ranch dressing quantity to your preference for creaminess.
- For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat ranch or cheese varieties.
- The salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored refrigerated.
- Adding fresh dill instead of dried can intensify the herbaceous notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for bacon frying)
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cucumber ranch crack salad, cucumber salad, creamy cucumber salad, bacon cucumber salad, quick side dish
