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Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad

Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad: Your New Favorite Summer Side

Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and creamy side dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 2 medium Cucumbers Substitute with Persian cucumbers for a tender texture.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Opt for green onions for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Cherry/Grape Tomatoes Diced regular tomatoes can also work in a pinch.
  • 4 slices Beef Bacon Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can lighten it up.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt Can be adjusted for preference.
  • 1/4 cup Buttermilk Milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice can substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Vinegar can also work for acidity.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for a punchier flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adjust based on your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Dill Fresh herbs can intensify the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Flakes
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Optional to balance flavors; omit if preferred.
For Garnishing
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Substitute with mild cheese for a softer flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill Dried herbs can be used if fresh isn't available.
  • 2 tablespoons Chives

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Skillet or Oven
  • Box grater
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Start by peeling the cucumbers and slicing them into 1/4-inch rounds. If desired, sprinkle lightly with salt and let them sit for 15-20 minutes, then blot them dry.
  2. Thinly slice the red onion and halve the cherry or grape tomatoes.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and lemon juice until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley flakes, and salt.
  4. Cook the beef bacon until crispy, approximately 15-20 minutes in the oven or less on the stovetop; drain and crumble.
  5. Shred the sharp cheddar cheese and chop the fresh dill and chives.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, red onion, tomatoes, bacon, and cheese; fold together gently.
  7. Add the dressing to the salad mixture and toss gently. Chill in the refrigerator for an additional 15-30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best flavor, let the salad chill after combining ingredients and dress just before serving.

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