Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
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.
- 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
