Easy Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Easy Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a fresh, creamy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side for dinner. With crisp cucumbers, sharp red onions, and a tangy ranch dressing, it’s a refreshing salad that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup bacon bits (optional)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the cucumbers thinly. You can leave the skin on for extra color and crunch or peel them if you prefer.
- Step 2: Thinly slice the red onion to add a sharp contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onions, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon bits if using. Mix well.
- Step 4: Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Step 5: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Step 6: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and to chill the salad.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, use a low-fat or Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing.
- Try adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra freshness and color.
- To make it vegetarian, simply leave out the bacon bits or use a smoked paprika seasoning for a smoky flavor.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving again. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and fresh, so avoid keeping it longer to maintain crispness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best to prepare the salad and let it chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
PrintEasy Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
This Easy Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a healthy, refreshing, and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining crisp cucumbers, sharp red onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and optional bacon bits with a tangy ranch dressing, this salad is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s chilled before serving to enhance the taste, making it an ideal cool and creamy salad to enjoy year-round.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup bacon bits (optional)
Dressing & Seasoning
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Cucumbers: Start by slicing the cucumbers thinly. Leave the skin on for added color and texture or peel them if you prefer a milder taste and smoother texture.
- Slice the Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion to add a sharp, balancing flavor against the creaminess of the dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the sliced cucumbers, red onion, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon bits if using. Stir gently to combine evenly.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the ranch dressing over the combined ingredients. Toss gently to coat all the components in the creamy dressing for a cohesive flavor.
- Season It Right: Taste your salad and add salt and pepper to your preference, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Let It Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad wonderfully refreshing when served.
Notes
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped celery or bell peppers.
- Bacon bits can be replaced with cooked crispy bacon pieces for richer flavor.
- Use store-bought or homemade ranch dressing according to your preference.
- This salad is best served chilled but can be kept refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- To make it vegetarian, omit bacon bits entirely or substitute with vegetarian bacon alternatives.
Keywords: Cucumber Salad, Ranch Salad, Easy Salad Recipe, Healthy Salad, No-Cook Salad, Refreshing Salad, Summer Salad
