Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and flavor-packed dish that combines crisp cucumbers with creamy ranch dressing, cheese, and crunchy add-ins for a side that truly lives up to its name. It’s cool, tangy, and satisfying, making it perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet irresistible. The fresh crunch of cucumbers paired with savory ranch and bold toppings creates a salad that feels indulgent but still light. It comes together in minutes, travels well, and is guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering.
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Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad – A Cool, Creamy, and Addictive Side Dish
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A refreshing and addictive salad made with crisp cucumbers, creamy ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions – a crunchy, flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 large cucumbers, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dice cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, combine ranch dressing, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add cucumbers, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Toss until evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve cold as a side dish or light lunch.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add sunflower seeds or crushed crackers on top before serving.
- Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Best served fresh, as cucumbers release water when stored too long.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins (for bacon)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cucumbers – Fresh, crisp, and hydrating, they form the base of the salad.
Ranch dressing – Creamy and tangy, coating the cucumbers with flavor.
Cheddar cheese – Shredded, adding sharpness and richness.
Bacon – Crispy crumbles for smoky, savory crunch.
Green onions – Add freshness and a mild bite.
Cherry tomatoes – Juicy bursts of sweetness for balance.
Salt and black pepper – Enhance and balance the flavors.
Fresh dill (optional) – Brightens the salad with a herby touch.
Directions
Wash and slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the green onions.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, green onions, shredded cheddar, and bacon crumbles.
Pour ranch dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Chill the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Garnish with fresh dill if desired. Serve cold.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, plus 20 minutes of chilling time. Total time: 35 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving, as the cucumbers release water over time. Best enjoyed fresh.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy kick – Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Greek-style – Swap ranch for tzatziki and add feta and olives.
Low-carb upgrade – Use ranch made with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Creamy avocado – Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
Herb boost – Mix in parsley, cilantro, or basil for freshness.
Southwest twist – Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning.
Crunch factor – Sprinkle with crushed crackers or croutons before serving.
Different cheese – Try pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar.
Protein boost – Mix in shredded chicken or turkey for a full meal.
Pickle lovers – Add chopped dill pickles for tangy crunch.
FAQs
Can I peel the cucumbers?
Yes, peeling is optional. Leaving the skin adds texture and nutrients.
Can I use bottled ranch?
Yes, store-bought works, but homemade ranch makes it extra fresh.
How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry before mixing.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, add ranch just before serving.
Can I use different cucumbers?
Yes, English or Persian cucumbers work well because they have fewer seeds.
Is this served cold?
Yes, it tastes best chilled.
Can I skip the bacon?
Yes, substitute with turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian option.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales up easily for parties or gatherings.
What pairs well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, steak, burgers, or barbecue dishes.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free ranch and cheese alternatives.
Conclusion
Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is cool, creamy, and completely addictive, making it the perfect side for any meal or occasion. With crisp cucumbers, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy ranch, it delivers the ultimate mix of textures and flavors. Quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always a hit, this salad is destined to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
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