Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and savory side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With crisp cucumbers, tangy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar, it combines simple ingredients for a flavorful crunch everyone will love.

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 (such as Hidden Valley)
• 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
• 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Crisp bacon in a pan or microwave, then crumble it and let it cool.
2. Step 2: Slice cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. No need to peel if using English or mini cucumbers.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, stir together sour cream and ranch seasoning mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and dill.
5. Step 5: Add the ranch dressing and gently mix until all ingredients are well coated.
6. 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 a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the dressing.
• Add chopped fresh chives for an extra mild onion flavor.
• Use smoked cheddar for a deeper, smoky taste.
• If you prefer a spicier salad, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is best enjoyed fresh, but chilling allows the flavors to meld. If the salad releases water over time, gently drain it before serving. Do not freeze, as cucumbers will become watery and lose texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but they have thicker skin and more seeds. You might want to peel and deseed them for a better texture and less bitterness.

Is there a substitute for dry ranch seasoning mix?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning mix, you can make your own with a combination of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe

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4.9 from 143 reviews

Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish featuring crisp cucumbers, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing. This easy-to-make salad blends cool cucumber slices with tangy sour cream and herbs, making it perfect for potlucks, weekend lunches, or a light dinner addition.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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, about 4–5 slices)

Seasonings

• 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix (such as Hidden Valley)
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bacon: Crisp up the bacon either in a pan over medium heat or microwave until crispy. Once cooked, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside to cool completely.
2. Slice the Cucumbers: Cut cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. There’s no need to peel if using English or Persian cucumbers, as their skins are thin and tender.
3. Make the Ranch Dressing: In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and dill.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the ranch dressing over the combined ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Season and Serve: Taste the salad and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Serve immediately for a refreshing crunch, or chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld together for an even tastier experience.

Notes

• Use English or Persian cucumbers for their thin skin and minimal seeds to keep the salad crisp and fresh.
• Crisping bacon in a pan adds extra flavor, but microwaving is a quick alternative.
• Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavor fusion and keeps it refreshing.
• Fresh dill adds vibrant herbaceous notes, but dried dill can be substituted if fresh isn’t available.
• This salad is best eaten the same day to maintain cucumber crunchiness.

Keywords: Cucumber salad, ranch dressing, bacon salad, cheddar cheese salad, easy summer salad, crisp cucumber recipe