This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing treat! It combines crunchy cucumbers, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness, bringing a fun twist to your summer meals.
Trust me; this salad is so easy to whip up, you might find yourself making it more than once a week! It’s perfect as a side dish or just a tasty snack when you’re feeling peckish. 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Grab fresh, large cucumbers for the best crunch. If you’re short on time, English cucumbers are great because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, so no peeling is necessary.
Bacon: Crisp bacon adds flavor and crunch. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, although it may lack some richness. You can also try vegan bacon for a plant-based version.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for its bold flavor. If you prefer something milder, you can use regular cheddar. A sprinkle of feta can add a nice twist too!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: This combo creates the creamy base. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute, giving smoothness and extra protein.
How Do I Get My Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting crispy bacon is all about the right cooking technique. Here’s how to ensure you achieve that perfect crunch:
- Cook the bacon on medium heat instead of high; this allows the fat to render out slowly, making it crispier.
- Leave some space between bacon strips in the skillet so they cook evenly.
- Flip the bacon occasionally for even crispness, and watch it closely during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Let the crispy bacon drain on paper towels afterward to reduce excess grease. Enjoy the satisfying crunch in your salad!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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
For Garnish (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon! Heat a skillet over medium heat, and add the bacon strips. Cook until they’re nice and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on paper towels to drain the excess grease. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
2. Making the Creamy Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the creamy base for your salad!
3. Mixing in the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the sliced cucumbers, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. If you’re using green onions, add them in as well. Gently toss everything together, ensuring all the cucumbers are coated in that creamy dressing.
4. Adding Fresh Herbs:
If you’re using fresh dill, sprinkle it over the top. Give it a gentle mix if you like, to distribute the dill flavor throughout the salad.
5. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the bowl or transfer the salad to a serving dish and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, your salad is ready to serve! Scoop it into individual bowls or serve it straight from the dish and enjoy this crunchy, creamy delight as a tasty side or snack!
Enjoy your creamy, crunchy, savory salad that balances refreshing cucumbers with rich bacon and sharp cheese!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor or even use additional sour cream. This will still keep the creamy texture while adding a unique taste!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the salad up to a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. The flavors will actually get better as they meld, but you might want to add the bacon right before serving for extra crunch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again. If it seems a little dry, feel free to add a splash of sour cream or mayonnaise to refresh it!
Can I Add Additional Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even shredded carrots for more color and crunch. Just keep the dressing balanced so the flavors harmonize!
