This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing blend of crunchy cucumbers, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese. It’s perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack!
I love how the bacon adds a nice crunch to this salad. It’s hard to resist going back for seconds— or maybe even thirds! 😄 Perfect for a picnic or barbecue!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for crunch. English cucumbers are great because their skin is thinner and they have fewer seeds. If you can’t find cucumbers, zucchini can work in a pinch for a twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious salty crunch. Turkey bacon is a lighter option if you’re watching fat, or you can skip it entirely for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a different taste or lower fat. Just make sure they’re shredded or crumbled for easy mixing.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These provide creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative for both ingredients—just use plain to avoid extra sweetness.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds tang. White vinegar or lemon juice can be substituted if you don’t have it on hand.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crisp?
Keeping cucumbers crunchy can be a challenge. Here are some tips!
- Salt the cucumbers before mixing everything. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, then drain any excess liquid. This helps reduce moisture in your salad.
- Mix the dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess. If you can, prepare the cucumbers and bacon ahead of time, but combine it all right before you eat.
- Chill the salad in the fridge, but don’t leave it too long. Serving it cold is best for freshness!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 6 slices of bacon
Creamy Dressing Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Optional Extras:
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped chives or green onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick process of cooking, mixing, and letting the flavors blend together nicely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. After it cools, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Creamy Dressing:
In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients until they’re well combined and creamy.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
To the bowl with the dressing, add the thinly sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Gently toss everything together, making sure each piece is coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Add Freshness:
If you like, stir in chopped chives or green onions. This adds a lovely color and extra flavor to your salad.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad refreshingly cool!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled, serve the salad cold as a delicious side dish. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any meal! Enjoy your creamy, crunchy treat!
FAQ for Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. It adds a nice tanginess and makes the salad a bit healthier as well. Just use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt for the best flavor.
How Can I Keep the Cucumbers Crunchy?
To maintain the crispness of cucumbers, slice them and sprinkle a little salt over them, allowing them to sit for about 15 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture. Drain any excess liquid before adding them to the salad.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the salad a few hours in advance! Just prepare everything and keep it covered in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, try to dress it no more than a few hours before serving to avoid sogginess.
What Are Some Alternatives to Bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option or don’t eat bacon, you can use chopped, toasted nuts for crunch or smoked tofu for a similar smoky flavor. You can also omit it altogether and still enjoy a tasty salad!
