Description
This Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a delightful blend of crisp cucumbers, creamy ranch dressing, and savory ingredients that make it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or a light lunch. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- English cucumbers (or regular cucumbers if unavailable)
- Ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade, yogurt-based for lighter version)
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Crispy bacon (or turkey bacon or crispy chickpeas for vegetarian option)
- Green onions
- Bell peppers (red or yellow)
- Fresh dill or parsley (or dried versions as substitute)
Instructions
- Start by washing the cucumbers. Slice them into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- If you’re using bacon, cook it until crispy in a skillet over medium heat. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
- While the bacon cools, chop your green onions and bell peppers. Add them to the bowl with the cucumbers.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cucumber and veggie mixture.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad and give everything a gentle toss to combine. Be careful not to mash the cucumbers.
- Add the crumbled bacon and fresh herbs, then mix lightly again. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. I often add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- For best results, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it cold and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just wait to add the bacon until right before serving to keep it crispy. Feel free to add other veggies like cherry tomatoes, corn, or avocado for added creaminess.