Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor. The combination of crisp cucumbers, creamy ranch dressing, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese makes each bite perfectly balanced. It’s fresh, crunchy, and addictive — you won’t be able to stop eating it once you start! Best of all, this salad can be prepared in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect no-fuss side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Main 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

Seasonings:

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp dried dill weed

Salt and fresh black pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Cucumbers and Bacon: Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds (about ¼ inch thick). Chop the green onions into small pieces. If the bacon isn’t already cooked, fry it until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Gently mix until evenly distributed.

Add Dressing and Seasonings: Pour the ranch dressing over the cucumber mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Be careful with the salt, as the bacon and cheese will already provide a good amount of flavor.

Toss and Chill: Gently toss everything together to coat the cucumbers with the creamy ranch dressing. For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve: Serve chilled, and if desired, garnish with extra bacon bits or green onions for a little extra flair.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: ~

Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add Extra Veggies: You can add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even avocado for additional flavor and texture.

Swap the Cheese: Try using mozzarella, goat cheese, or feta for a different twist on the classic cheddar.

Make It Spicy: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Vegan Version: Use vegan ranch dressing, vegan bacon, and plant-based cheese to make a vegan version of this salad.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water as it sits, so give it a quick toss before serving.

Reheating: This salad is meant to be served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just enjoy it straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just note that the cucumbers may release some water, so it’s a good idea to give it a quick toss before serving.

Can I use a different dressing instead of ranch?

Absolutely! You can substitute ranch dressing with Greek yogurt, blue cheese dressing, or even a simple vinaigrette if you prefer a lighter option.

How do I make this salad spicy?

To spice things up, you can add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, you can add other veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or carrots to make it more colorful and flavorful.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free bacon and ranch dressing. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they are free from gluten.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon for convenience. Just crumble it into small pieces before adding it to the salad.

Can I use low-fat ranch dressing?

Yes, you can substitute regular ranch dressing with low-fat or light ranch dressing for a healthier version.

How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

This salad will keep for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the best crunch.

Can I make this salad without bacon?

Yes! If you want a vegetarian version, simply leave out the bacon and use other savory ingredients like toasted nuts or seeds for added texture.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, this salad is low-carb and keto-friendly. Just be sure to double-check the ranch dressing and bacon to ensure they align with your dietary preferences.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is the ultimate crunchy, creamy, and satisfying side dish. With minimal prep and no cooking required, it’s the perfect addition to any meal, especially on a hot day when you need something refreshing. The combo of cucumbers, bacon, cheddar, and ranch dressing is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy this addictive salad at your next gathering or as a quick snack!

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