Description
Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a creamy, crunchy delight featuring fresh cucumbers, crisp red onions, juicy cherry tomatoes, and savory bacon bits all tossed in a flavorful ranch dressing. This quick and easy salad is perfect for a refreshing side dish or light meal, with its blend of creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures that meld beautifully after chilling.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 medium fresh cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Dressings and Seasonings
- 1 cup ranch dressing (preferably homemade or high-quality store-bought)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup bacon bits, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, finely chopped red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Ensure all vegetables are fresh and evenly cut for consistent texture.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the ranch dressing over the mixed vegetables. Gently toss the ingredients to coat all the vegetables evenly without bruising or crushing them.
- Incorporate Add-ins: Fold in the cooked and crumbled bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and freshly chopped dill carefully, so they are distributed evenly throughout the salad.
- Season to Taste: Sprinkle salt and pepper according to your preference, mixing gently to combine the seasoning without disturbing the salad’s texture.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the taste.
- Final Toss and Serve: Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled for best flavor.
Notes
- For added crunch, consider topping with toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts just before serving.
- Use thick-cut bacon for a smokier flavor, and cook until crispy.
- Homemade ranch dressing can elevate the freshness; see recipe for homemade ranch dressing for best results.
- Can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated to deepen flavors.
- Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or a sharp white cheddar for a different cheese profile.
