Introduction

Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and flavorful mix perfect for warm days or as a tasty side dish. Combining crisp cucumbers, tangy ranch dressing, and savory bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly. Its creamy texture and bright flavors make it a memorable addition to any meal.

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad showing three main layers: the bottom layer is bright green cucumber slices arranged around the bowl's edge, the middle layer contains vibrant red cherry tomato halves mixed with small white cubes of cheese, and the top layer is covered in a creamy white dressing speckled with green herbs and black pepper, garnished with thin pale yellow cheese shavings and a small green mint leaf placed in the center. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
½ cup ranch dressing
¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Wash and prepare the vegetables by dicing the cucumbers and halving the cherry tomatoes.
Step 2: Finely chop the red onion to add a zesty crunch.
Step 3: Cook bacon in a pan until crispy if raw, then crumble into small pieces. If using pre-cooked bacon, crumble it directly.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
Step 5: Add the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese to the bowl.
Step 6: Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture, add chopped dill, and stir until everything is well-coated.
Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 8: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 9: Toss the salad before serving to redistribute dressing and ingredients evenly.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, in-season cucumbers and tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
For a lighter dressing, substitute ranch with a Greek yogurt-based version.
Add chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots to increase crunch.
Make ahead by prepping the salad a few hours in advance, but add bacon just before serving to keep it crisp.
Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an herbed twist.
Incorporate fruits such as diced apples or strawberries for a sweet contrast.
Spice it up with sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Give it a Mediterranean flair by including feta cheese and Kalamata olives.
Boost protein by substituting bacon with diced rotisserie chicken or chickpeas.

Storage

Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Because of the fresh vegetables’ texture, freezing is not recommended. To prep ahead, store vegetables separately from dressing and bacon. When ready to serve, combine all ingredients and toss well. Reheat is not necessary as this salad is best served chilled.

How to Serve

A fresh salad is served in a white bowl on a white marbled surface, showing many layers and colors. The base layer is made of thin cucumber slices, bright green with a moist texture. Above this are halved cherry tomatoes, red and shiny, mixed with small cubes of white cheese covered in a white, creamy dressing with green herbs. Thin shavings of light yellow cheese are scattered on top, and crushed black pepper and red spices add specks of color. A small sprig of fresh mint, dark green, sits on the very top as a garnish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, pepper jack, goat cheese, or any shredded cheese you prefer to suit your taste.

How long can I leave this salad out?

For food safety, avoid leaving the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.

What if I don’t like ranch dressing?

If ranch isn’t your favorite, try substituting with a vinaigrette, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs, or your preferred dressing to customize the flavor.