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Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe

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3.9 from 11 reviews

A refreshing and indulgent American salad featuring diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, crispy cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and a creamy ranch dressing blend. Perfect for gatherings, this chilled salad combines crisp vegetables with savory and creamy flavors for a delightful appetizer or side dish.

  • Author: Zara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 Large cucumbers, diced
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 Red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup Ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup Sour cream
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion, ensuring even distribution of all fresh ingredients.
  2. Add bacon and cheese: Incorporate the crumbled cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese into the vegetable mixture, mixing gently to combine all elements without breaking down the cheese or bacon.
  3. Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and uniformly blended, creating the creamy base for the salad.
  4. Toss salad with dressing: Pour the ranch and sour cream dressing over the combined salad ingredients, then gently toss everything together until all pieces are evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Season the salad: Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning to your preference while maintaining balance with the creamy dressing.
  6. Garnish and chill: Optionally garnish with fresh dill or parsley for added color and flavor. Serve immediately for a crisp texture or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
  7. Optional additions: For extra crunch and flavor, consider folding in chopped bell peppers or sprinkling sunflower seeds over the salad before serving.

Notes

  • This salad can be served immediately or chilled to enhance flavor melding.
  • Add chopped bell peppers or sunflower seeds for additional crunch.
  • Use freshly cooked bacon for best flavor and texture; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • Fresh herbs like dill or parsley elevate the salad’s freshness and presentation.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially if your ranch dressing is seasoned.