Looking for a fresh and tasty dish that makes the perfect side for any meal? Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is here to save the day! This vibrant salad is ideal for busy families looking for quick yet delicious options that are sure to please everyone.
Imagine biting into crispy cucumbers and juicy cherry tomatoes tossed in a creamy ranch dressing, with just the right amount of crunch from bacon and cheese. It’s a delightful combination of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing! This salad is not just another leafy green; it’s filled with exciting textures and flavors that make it a standout.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 10 minutes: Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something delicious!
- Uses simple ingredients: You probably already have most of these in your kitchen.
- Great for gatherings: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it a go-to for potlucks or BBQs.
- Customizable: Easily adjust it to suit everyone’s taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
- 4 medium cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (can be substituted with your favorite cheese or omitted)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
- Combine the chopped cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and finely chopped red onion to the bowl.
- Incorporate the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese (if using).
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad ingredients and mix well.
- Sprinkle in the chopped dill (if using) along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss everything gently until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time for an even quicker assembly.
- Chill the salad for about 30 minutes in the fridge to let the flavors meld together.
- Add extra crunch by including some sunflower seeds or nuts if desired.
Substitutions & Variations of Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
- To Make It Vegan/Gluten-Free: Use a dairy-free ranch dressing and omit the bacon or replace it with coconut bacon or crispy chickpeas.
- Variations: Consider adding diced bell peppers for color, or even a pinch of cayenne for some heat. Toss in some kidney beans for added protein!
Storage Instructions for Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crunch but will still taste great!
- Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the cucumbers may become mushy when thawed.
- Make-Ahead: Chop all ingredients the day before, but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure your ranch dressing is gluten-free.
How long will leftovers last?
This salad is best enjoyed within 3 days, but the flavors will still be good for up to 5 days.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids usually love the creamy dressing, cheese, and bacon bits.
Final Toughts
This Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing treat that comes together in no time at all. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something quick but satisfying. Give it a try, and let your family fall in love with this delicious dish! If you make this salad, please share your experience in the comments and give it a star rating. Your feedback helps other readers discover this delightful recipe!
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Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
A vibrant salad featuring crispy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy ranch dressing with a crunchy finish from bacon and cheese.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (can be substituted with your favorite cheese or omitted)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine the chopped cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and finely chopped red onion to the bowl.
- Incorporate the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese (if using).
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad ingredients and mix well.
- Sprinkle in the chopped dill (if using) along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss everything gently until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Notes
For best flavor, chill the salad for about 30 minutes before serving. Customize the salad with add-ins like bell peppers or nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian