Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and crunchy dish packed with savory flavors. Combining crisp cucumbers, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing, it’s perfect as a quick side or light lunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced (English or Persian cucumbers preferred)
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (4–5 slices)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix (like Hidden Valley)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the bacon until crisp in a pan or microwave, then crumble it and let cool.
- Step 2: Slice cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. Peeling is optional if using English or Persian cucumbers.
- Step 3: In a bowl, stir together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and dill.
- Step 5: Add the ranch dressing and gently mix until all ingredients are well coated.
- Step 6: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, or chill for 10–15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add chopped celery or radishes.
- Use smoked paprika or a little cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Swap fresh dill for fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor.
- Try substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier dressing and lighter texture.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water, so give the salad a gentle stir before serving again. It is best enjoyed chilled and fresh for optimal crunch and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English or Persian?
Yes, but regular cucumbers have thicker skins and more seeds, so you might want to peel and seed them for a better texture.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
It can be prepared ahead, but cucumbers tend to get watery over time, so it’s best made the same day or stored separately and mixed just before serving.
PrintClassic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and savory side dish featuring crisp cucumbers, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a creamy homemade ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick snack or a light meal, this salad combines crunchy textures with a rich, tangy flavor that is sure to delight your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups cucumbers, sliced (English or Persian cucumbers preferred)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
- 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
Dairy
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
Meat
- ⅓ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (4–5 slices)
Seasonings
- 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix (like Hidden Valley)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook and crumble bacon. Crisp the bacon in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until crispy. Once cooked, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside to cool.
- Prepare cucumbers. Slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch thick rounds. There is no need to peel them if using English or mini cucumbers, which have a mild skin.
- Make ranch dressing. In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning mix until smooth and creamy.
- Combine salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, cooled crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and fresh dill. Gently toss to combine these ingredients evenly.
- Add dressing and mix. Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the salad mixture. Gently mix until all ingredients are well coated with the creamy dressing.
- Season and serve. Taste the salad and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Serve immediately for the freshest taste or chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- English or Persian cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and mild flavor, eliminating the need to peel.
- Cooking bacon in the microwave is a convenient alternative to pan-frying.
- For extra flavor, chilling the salad before serving helps the dressing to blend with the ingredients.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to your taste preference.
- This salad is best served fresh as the cucumbers can release moisture over time.
Keywords: cucumber salad, ranch salad, bacon salad, cheddar cheese salad, quick cucumber salad, easy side dish
