In my kitchen, this Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is always a go-to for potlucks, family gatherings, or just as a light, refreshing side. It’s the kind of dish that combines the crunch of fresh veggies, the creaminess of ranch dressing, and a satisfying hint of smoky flavor from the bacon. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to put together, making it perfect for the busy home cook!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
If you’re looking for a salad that steals the show without demanding hours of your time, then this Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is exactly what you need. It’s not only budget-friendly but also bursting with flavor, making it suitable for any occasion—be it a sunny picnic or a weeknight dinner.
“I brought this salad to my friend’s BBQ, and everyone couldn’t stop asking for the recipe! It’s a total crowd-pleaser.” — Happy Reader
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if cooking bacon)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making this Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a breeze! With a few simple steps, you can whip up a salad that will impress your friends and family. Here’s what you’ll need to gather, followed by the easy steps to create this delightful dish.
What You’ll Need
- 2 large cucumbers, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cooked beef bacon, crumbled (or turkey bacon)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Crafting Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is easy if you follow these straightforward steps:
Wash and Dice the Veggies: Start by rinsing the cucumbers and tomatoes under cold water. Dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes.
Chop the Onion: Finely chop the red onion for that zesty crunch, and set it aside.
Cook the Bacon: If you’re using raw beef bacon, cook it in a pan over medium heat until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. For pre-cooked turkey bacon, simply crumble as desired.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Toss them together gently.
Add Bacon and Cheese: Next, mix in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese of your choice, folding it in to combine well.
Dress the Salad: Pour the ranch dressing over the veggie mixture, adding in the chopped dill. Stir until everything is well-coated and deliciously combined.
Season to Taste: Sprinkle in salt and pepper as per your preference, adjusting to make it just right.
Chill Out: Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This little time ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Final Toss Before Serving: Right before you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
Following these steps will lead you to create a delightful Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad that is sure to impress!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This salad is the perfect side dish for BBQs, grilled chicken, or even tacos! You can serve it in individual bowls for a charming presentation or toss it all together in a large serving dish for a more casual vibe. Pair it with a chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade for that ultimate summer meal.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store any leftovers, transfer the salad to an airtight container and place it in the fridge. It usually stays fresh for about 2-3 days. If you’ve used fresh dill or other crisp veggies, they might lose some crunch over time, so enjoy this salad within a couple of days for the best texture and flavor.
Pro Chef Tips
- Prep Ahead: Dice your veggies a few hours in advance and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.
- Layer for Presentation: Consider layering the ingredients in a clear bowl for a visually appealing effect.
- Bacon Choices: For a different flavor profile, try using smoked turkey bacon for a lighter option or add a sprinkle of crumbled feta for extra creaminess.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to switch things up:
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ranch dressing for a little heat.
- Herbed Twist: Substitute the fresh dill with a mixture of basil and parsley to introduce new flavors.
- Crunchy Alternatives: Want to skip the beef bacon? Throw in some crispy chickpeas or toasted sunflower seeds for that satisfying crunch without the meat.
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| per serving | 230 | 10g | 12g | 15g | 3g | 4g |
Embrace the refreshing taste of summer with this Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad recipe! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, perfect for any gathering or a simple weeknight meal. Enjoy!
