Introduction

This Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that combines crisp cucumbers, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon with a creamy ranch dressing. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for summer gatherings or a simple snack.

A clear glass bowl filled with a creamy cucumber salad that has several layers of thick cucumber slices coated in white, herb-speckled dressing. Mixed throughout are small pieces of crispy reddish-brown bacon, finely chopped purple onion chunks, thin orange shredded cheese, fresh green dill sprigs, and some halved red cherry tomatoes peeking from underneath. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 (like 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

Step 1: Cook the bacon until crisp in a pan or microwave, then crumble and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. There’s no need to peel if you’re using English or Persian cucumbers.
Step 3: In a bowl, stir together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, and dill.
Step 5: Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh dill whenever possible for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
Add diced tomatoes or sliced radishes for extra crunch and color.
If you prefer, swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a twist.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water over time, so give the salad a gentle stir before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled but can be served at room temperature as well.

How to Serve

Two clear rectangular containers filled with a fresh cucumber salad are placed on a white marbled surface. Each container holds multiple round slices of bright green cucumber coated in a creamy white dressing with visible specks of dill. Thin strips of purple onion are scattered throughout, adding pops of color. Small pieces of crispy browned bacon are sprinkled over the salad, along with thin shreds of yellow cheddar cheese. Fresh green dill sprigs are also mixed in and lightly placed on top, adding texture and color contrast. The overall look is fresh and vibrant, with layers of creamy, crunchy, and savory elements. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and chill it to let the flavors develop. However, avoid making it more than a day ahead, as cucumbers may become watery and lose their crispness.

What can I substitute for ranch seasoning mix?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning mix on hand, you can combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to create your own blend.

Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.6 from 108 reviews

Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a refreshing and flavorful no-cook salad combining crisp cucumbers, sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as a quick snack, side, or light lunch, offering a delightful blend of textures and savory flavors.

Author: Ruby
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cucumbers, sliced (English or Persian cucumbers preferred, cut into ¼-inch rounds)
½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
⅓ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (4–5 slices)
2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
1–2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
Salt & black pepper, to taste

Dressing Ingredients

½ cup sour cream
1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix (like Hidden Valley)

Instructions

Cook and crumble the bacon: Crisp up the bacon either in a pan over medium heat or microwave until fully cooked and crispy. Once cooked, crumble the bacon into small pieces and let it cool completely.
Prepare the cucumbers: Slice cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds. Peel is not necessary if you are using English or Persian cucumbers as their skin is tender and thin.
Make the ranch dressing: In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream and dry ranch seasoning mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, shredded sharp cheddar, cooled crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh dill.
Mix the salad with dressing: Pour the ranch dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss everything together until every ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.
Season and serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve immediately for a fresh crunch, or chill for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Using English or Persian cucumbers eliminates the need to peel, which helps retain nutrients and color.
For a healthier alternative, consider using low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of regular sour cream.
Chilling the salad briefly enhances the flavors and texture, but it can be served right away if desired.
Bacon can be baked on a sheet pan for easy, evenly cooked crispiness and less mess.
Fresh dill gives the best flavor, but dried dill is a convenient substitute.
Adjust the ranch seasoning quantity to taste, especially if you prefer a milder dressing.

Keywords: Cucumber Salad, Ranch Salad, Bacon Salad, Quick Salad, Easy Side Dish, Summer Salad