Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and flavorful cold salad combining crisp cucumbers, sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing with fresh dill and red onions. Perfect for a quick snack or light meal, this salad offers a delightful crunch and savory taste ready in just 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced (English or Persian cucumbers preferred)
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (4–5 slices)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix (such as Hidden Valley)
Instructions
- Cook and crumble bacon: Crisp the bacon in a pan or microwave until fully cooked and crispy. Let it cool, then crumble into small pieces.
- Slice cucumbers: Cut the cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. There is no need to peel if using English or mini cucumbers.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning mix until smooth and creamy.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, and chopped dill.
- Add dressing and mix: Pour the ranch dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are well coated.
- Season and chill: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter dressing.
- Use fresh dill for best flavor; dried dill can be used if fresh is unavailable.
- Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together better.
- This salad is best served chilled but can be served at room temperature if preferred.
- Adjust ranch seasoning according to taste preference and saltiness of bacon.
