Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and utterly addictive side dish, the Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is an absolute must-try. This vibrant salad brings together crisp cucumbers, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy ranch dressing that’s bursting with herbaceous goodness. Every bite is a satisfying blend of crunchy, tangy, and savory notes that will have you coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds. It’s the perfect way to brighten up any meal or serve as a show-stopping dish at your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to bringing the Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad to life. Each one adds a unique element—whether it’s the crisp texture of the cucumber, the rich creaminess of the sour cream, or the salty crunch of the bacon—that makes this salad so irresistibly delicious.
- 2 cups cucumbers (sliced): Using English or Persian cucumbers adds a tender crunch without the need to peel, keeping the salad light and fresh.
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This brings a bold, tangy flavor and a smooth texture that complements the cool cucumbers perfectly.
- ⅓ cup cooked bacon (crumbled): Crisp and smoky bacon adds savory depth and a crunchy contrast to each mouthful.
- ½ cup sour cream: Provides a luscious, creamy base that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix: Classic ranch mix brings that signature herby, zesty flavor that makes this salad a true crowd-pleaser.
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion: Adds a subtle bite and vibrant color, enhancing both taste and appearance.
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill): Dill infuses the salad with a bright, slightly sweet herbal note that’s utterly refreshing.
- Salt & black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the flavors in every bite.
How to Make Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
Start by crisping the bacon in a pan or microwave. Once it’s delightfully crunchy, crumble it into small pieces and set aside to cool. This step is crucial because the bacon’s crispness adds an amazing texture contrast against the cool, juicy cucumbers.
Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers
Slice your cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. If you’re using English or mini cucumbers, there’s no need to peel them—the thin skin adds a beautiful color and extra crunch to the salad.
Step 3: Make the Ranch Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This simple combination packs all the classic ranch flavors directly into your salad.
Step 4: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced cucumbers, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, and dill. This colorful medley creates the base of your salad.
Step 5: Toss with the Dressing
Pour the ranch dressing over the bowl and gently mix everything together until every piece is coated with that creamy, flavorful goodness. Be careful to mix gently so the cucumbers stay crisp and the bacon doesn’t crumble too much.
Step 6: Season and Chill
Finally, season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately if you want a crisp bite or chill it for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld and intensify for an even better experience.
How to Serve Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped dill or some freshly cracked black pepper on top adds an inviting finishing touch. For a bit of color and crunch, try adding a few halved cherry tomatoes or a few scallion rings. These little extras make the Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or even as a zesty side to your favorite sandwich. Its light, fresh profile complements heavier mains perfectly, balancing out any meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad in hollowed-out cucumber boats or crisp lettuce cups. You can also layer it in a clear glass bowl as a vibrant salad parfait, showcasing all the lovely colors and textures to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind cucumbers release moisture, so give the salad a gentle toss before serving again to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
Because of the fresh cucumbers and creamy dressing, this salad doesn’t freeze well—freezing will affect the texture and flavor. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer, just let leftovers come to room temperature for a bit before serving for optimum flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cucumbers for Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad?
Absolutely! English and Persian cucumbers are preferred for their thin skins and mild flavor, but you can substitute with Kirby or regular cucumbers—just peel them if the skin is thick or bitter.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the sour cream for a plant-based alternative, use vegan cheddar-style shreds, and omit the bacon or replace it with smoked tempeh bits for that smoky crunch.
Can I make the ranch dressing from scratch?
Certainly! A homemade ranch mix made from dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt can be whisked into sour cream or a yogurt base to create a fresher, personalized dressing.
How long can I prepare the salad in advance?
This salad is best prepared the same day you plan to serve it. If needed, you can mix it a few hours ahead and refrigerate but avoid making it the day before as cucumbers release water and can make the salad soggy.
What can I serve the salad with for a light meal?
Try pairing the Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad with crispy bread, grilled shrimp, or a light protein like turkey breast for a perfectly balanced and satisfying light meal.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad truly shines as a simple yet irresistible dish that’s easy to whip up and share with loved ones. I encourage you to try this salad soon—it’s the kind of recipe that turns casual lunches or family dinners into something special with very little effort. Once you taste that creamy, crunchy, smoky combination, it’s hard to go back!
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Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing, crunchy, and creamy side dish featuring crisp cucumbers, sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a tangy ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a quick snack, it combines simple ingredients for a flavorful and satisfying salad.
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
- Prepare the bacon: Crisp the bacon in a pan or microwave, then crumble it into small pieces and let it cool completely to avoid wilting the salad.
- Slice cucumbers: Cut the cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. There’s no need to peel if you are using English or mini cucumbers, keeping the skin for extra crunch and nutrients.
- Make ranch dressing: Stir together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning mix in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This creates the flavorful dressing that ties the salad together.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and fresh dill.
- Add dressing and mix: Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything until all the ingredients are well coated with the creamy dressing.
- Season and chill: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for a crisp experience or chill the salad for 10–15 minutes to deepen the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Using English or Persian cucumbers ensures a crisp texture and minimal peeling is needed.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Make sure bacon is thoroughly cooled before adding to maintain salad crunchiness.
- Chilling the salad before serving allows flavors to meld and enhances taste.
- Can be served as a side dish or a topping for baked potatoes or sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook (except bacon crisping)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: cucumber salad, ranch salad, bacon salad, cucumber ranch recipe, easy side dish, picnic salad, quick salad recipe
