This Cucumber Caesar Salad is cool, crunchy, and creamy all at once. Thinly sliced cucumbers meet tangy Caesar dressing and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a light take on a classic. It’s refreshing, easy to eat, and feels a little indulgent without the heaviness.
Top reasons to make it: it’s fast, uses few ingredients, and cleans up in minutes. If you enjoy quick salads, you might also like these easy pasta sides try this orzo salad recipes for another simple option to bring to work or a potluck.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 10 minutes
- Made with simple, store‑cupboard ingredients
- Great for packed lunches or a quick side
- Light, fresh, and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup croutons
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving of Cucumber Caesar Salad
Step-by-Step Instructions of Cucumber Caesar Salad
- Wash and dry the cucumbers, then slice them thinly on a cutting board.
- Place the cucumber slices in a large bowl.
- Pour the Caesar dressing over the cucumbers and toss until evenly coated.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste remember the dressing may already be salty.
- Sprinkle croutons on top right before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright squeeze if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use firm, chilled cucumbers for the best crunch.
- Toss with dressing just before serving to avoid soggy cucumbers.
- Grate fresh Parmesan for a better taste than pre‑shredded.
- Add lemon slowly a little brightens the salad without overpowering it.
Substitutions & Variations of Cucumber Caesar Salad
To Make It Vegan/Gluten-Free:
- Vegan: Use a vegan Caesar dressing and dairy‑free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten‑free croutons or omit them entirely.
Variations:
- Add chopped romaine or kale for more volume.
- Stir in cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
- Swap croutons for toasted nuts (almonds or walnuts) for crunch and flavor.
- Mix in chopped dill or parsley for a fresh herb twist.
Storage Instructions of Cucumber Caesar Salad
Refrigerator:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep croutons separate and add before serving.
Freezer:
- Not recommended; cucumbers become watery when frozen.
Make-Ahead:
- Slice cucumbers and refrigerate them in a sealed container. Keep dressing and croutons separate until ready to toss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Cucumber Caesar Salad
Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
- Yes. Store-bought dressing works fine and saves time. Taste and adjust salt or lemon if needed.
Will this salad stay crisp after dressing?
- It’s best eaten within a few hours after dressing. For leftovers, store undressed cucumber slices and add dressing later.
Can I add protein to make it a meal?
- Absolutely. Grilled chicken, salmon, or canned tuna turn this into a light main dish.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber Caesar Salad is a fresh, fast side that fits busy lives perfect for moms, professionals, and anyone who wants a tasty salad without fuss. It’s easy to tweak, easy to love, and makes weeknights feel just a bit brighter. If you try it, leave a comment and a star rating so others know how it turned out!
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Cucumber Caesar Salad
A refreshing and crunchy Cucumber Caesar Salad that combines cool cucumbers with tangy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese, perfect for quick lunches or as a side dish.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup croutons
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Wash and dry the cucumbers, then slice them thinly on a cutting board.
- Place the cucumber slices in a large bowl.
- Pour the Caesar dressing over the cucumbers and toss until evenly coated.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste—remember the dressing may already be salty.
- Sprinkle croutons on top right before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright squeeze if desired.
Notes
Use firm, chilled cucumbers for the best crunch. Toss with dressing just before serving to avoid soggy cucumbers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian