This addictive salad combines crisp cucumbers, creamy ranch dressing, sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and fresh green onions. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare and perfect for warm weather meals.
Ingredients
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2–3 cups fresh cucumbers, sliced thin
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½ cup creamy ranch dressing
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½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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⅓ cup crispy bacon, crumbled
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2 tablespoons fresh green onions, chopped
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon dried dill weed
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Salt and fresh black pepper to taste
Directions
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Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about ¼ inch thick.
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Cook the Bacon: If not using pre-cooked bacon, fry it until crispy, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
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Add Dressing and Seasonings: Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Toss and Chill: Gently toss everything until well-coated. For best flavor, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 185 kcal
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Total Fat: 16 g
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Carbohydrates: 6 g
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Protein: 7 g
Why Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is Perfect for Summer
Summer is the perfect time for refreshing dishes that don’t require much time in the kitchen. The Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad fits the bill perfectly. It’s no-cook, quick to assemble, and can be made in advance, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights, backyard BBQs, or gatherings. With cucumbers being in season during the summer months, this salad makes use of fresh, crisp produce, ensuring maximum flavor.
The combination of ranch dressing and crispy bacon gives the salad a richness that balances out the cucumber’s natural crunch and mild flavor. Adding shredded cheddar cheese enhances the savory taste, and fresh green onions provide a pop of color and a burst of sharp flavor. The entire dish is light yet filling, making it a perfect addition to any summer meal.
Versatility of the Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
One of the best things about this salad is how versatile it is. While the base ingredients are relatively simple, the recipe can be customized to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or what you have available in your kitchen. Here are a few ways you can modify the salad:
Add More Vegetables
If you’re a fan of vegetables, you can easily add more to this salad. For example, you could include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions for added color and flavor. Sliced radishes or avocado would also be a great addition, offering extra crunch or creaminess.
Make it Lighter
For a lighter version of the salad, consider using a low-fat or fat-free ranch dressing or swapping out the mayonnaise in the ranch dressing for Greek yogurt. This substitution provides a similar creamy texture while adding protein and reducing calories. You can also replace the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.
Swap the Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a great option, but you can also experiment with different varieties such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or a tangy blue cheese. Each type of cheese brings its own unique flavor, allowing you to adjust the salad to your preferences.
Spice it Up
For those who enjoy a little heat, adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can turn up the heat in this otherwise mild dish. Spicy ranch dressings or even a touch of sriracha can add a zingy, flavorful kick that takes this salad to the next level.
Health Benefits of Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
While the Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is undoubtedly indulgent and delicious, it also offers several health benefits due to its ingredients.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are low in calories but high in water content, making them an excellent hydrating food choice. They are also packed with fiber, which is important for digestion and maintaining a healthy gut. Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins K and C, which support bone health and the immune system. Plus, they contain antioxidants like beta-carotene, which may help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
Bacon (In Moderation)
Bacon is often seen as a decadent ingredient, but when used in moderation, it can contribute to the flavor profile of the dish without overwhelming it. Bacon is high in protein and essential fats, and it can provide a satisfying savory depth to the salad. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or plant-based bacon are good options that can cut down on saturated fat while still giving you that crispy crunch.
Ranch Dressing
Traditional ranch dressing can be high in fats and calories, but there are many healthier alternatives available. Choosing a lower-fat version or making your own homemade ranch dressing with Greek yogurt can provide a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. Homemade ranch dressings can also be made without preservatives and added sugars, making them a cleaner option for those concerned about the ingredients in store-bought versions.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is vital for bone health. It also provides protein and healthy fats that help keep you full and satisfied. While cheese is calorie-dense, it can still be a part of a healthy, balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
How to Serve Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
This salad is incredibly versatile in terms of how it can be served. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate it into your meals:
As a Side Dish
The Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or pork. It also complements BBQ dishes, burgers, and hot dogs. Its refreshing crunch is the perfect balance to richer main courses.
At Potlucks or BBQs
This salad is a popular choice at potlucks and BBQs. It can easily be doubled or tripled to serve a large crowd, and since it can be made ahead of time, it’s a convenient dish to bring along. You can even serve it in individual portions in small cups or bowls for easy sharing.
On Top of a Green Salad
For added texture and flavor, this salad can be placed on top of a simple green salad. The creaminess of the Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad complements the freshness of leafy greens like romaine lettuce or spinach, turning a basic salad into something extraordinary.
As a Snack or Light Meal
If you’re craving something light but satisfying, this salad can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or quick meal. The combination of cheese, bacon, and ranch dressing will fill you up without being too heavy.
Conclusion
Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that brings together refreshing ingredients in a delightful combination. Its creamy texture, crisp vegetables, and savory elements make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from summer picnics to casual dinners. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a crowd-pleasing potluck favorite, this salad has you covered.
With endless customization options, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a dish that can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends. So next time you’re in need of a delicious and satisfying salad, give the Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad a try—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!