This creamy cucumber salad gets a tasty boost from crispy bacon and cheese. It’s refreshing and perfect as a side dish for any meal!
I love how quickly this salad comes together—just mix, toss, and enjoy! It’s a crowd-pleaser at picnics and barbecues. Who can resist bacon, right? 🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are key for crunch. I prefer using English cucumbers since they’re less seedy and have a thicker skin, but regular cucumbers work too. Just make sure to slice them thin for the best texture!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds delicious flavor. You can try turkey bacon or pancetta if you want a different taste or need a healthier option. Make sure to cook it until it’s crispy for that perfect crunch!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is my go-to, but feel free to swap in your favorite cheese—blue cheese adds a nice tang, or even feta would work! Just be aware that different cheeses can change the salad’s flavor a bit.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: This creamy dressing combo is a winner! If you’re looking for lighter options, try Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can reduce the mayo or use a light version if you want fewer calories.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar gives a nice tang, but white vinegar also works. You could even use lemon juice for a fresher taste!
How Can I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crunchy?
The key to keeping your creamy cucumber salad crunchy is in how you prepare the cucumbers. Here’s what to do:
- Salt your sliced cucumbers and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This draws out extra moisture, so your salad isn’t watery.
- After their time is up, rinse and pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels before adding them to the dressing.
- Mix the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy. If you have leftovers, store the dressing separately and combine again before serving.
With these tips, your salad will stay crisp and delicious for everyone to enjoy! ត
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional)
- Fresh dill or chives for garnish (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time to make, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes nice and crispy. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess fat. After it cools, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious base that brings your salad together!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the sliced cucumbers, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped red onion (if you’re using it) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers and other ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows all the flavors to meld and makes the salad refreshing.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to mix everything again, and garnish with fresh dill or chives if you like. Serve chilled, and enjoy this yummy and creamy side dish!
Enjoy your Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheese!
FAQ for Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great healthier substitute for sour cream. It adds creaminess while also offering a little extra protein. Just make sure to pick a plain variety to keep the flavors balanced!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the bacon for plant-based bacon or skip it altogether. Use a vegan mayonnaise and yogurt alternative in place of the sour cream and mayonnaise. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that cucumbers may release water, so it’s best to consume the salad sooner for optimal freshness!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of serving. Just be sure to store it in the fridge, and give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
