This refreshing creamy cucumber salad is packed with crispy bacon and tasty cheese. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal and will have everyone coming back for seconds!
You can whip it up in no time, making it a favorite in my house. I love serving it at summer barbecues—everyone loves that crunchy, cheesy goodness. Yum! 🥒🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, firm cucumbers are key for this salad. English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. You can also use Persian cucumbers for a sweeter taste if you prefer!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works well, or you could use cooked pancetta for a flavorful twist. Vegetarian alternatives like roasted nuts can also add a nice crunch.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a rich flavor, but you can swap it for Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a lighter or vegan option.
Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. It’s thick and creamy with extra protein, or you can try tahini for a different flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crisp?
To keep your cucumber salad nice and crisp, follow these tips: First, slice the cucumbers thinly, but not too thin. This helps balance crunch with sweetness. Then, sprinkle a little salt on them and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before mixing. This draws out excess moisture, keeping your salad from getting soggy.
- Use a colander to drain the cucumbers before mixing with other ingredients.
- Refrigerate the salad before serving, as chilling helps everything firm up nicely.
- Serve immediately after mixing for the best texture!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Garnish (optional):
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy cucumber salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and keeps everything fresh. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes getting this tasty dish ready for your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Let it sizzle until it becomes nice and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. After it cools down, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is what gives the salad its delicious flavor!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the thinly sliced cucumbers and shredded cheddar cheese into the dressing bowl. Toss everything together gently until the cucumbers are well coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Add the Bacon:
Carefully fold in the crumbled bacon pieces into the salad mix. Make sure to mix this gently so you don’t break up the cucumbers too much.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to merge and keeps the cucumbers crispy!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the thinly sliced green onions on top for an extra splash of color and flavor. Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing side dish, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Plain Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes! Plain yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and can make your salad a bit lighter while still keeping it creamy. Just use the same amount, and you’ll hardly notice the difference!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Your creamy cucumber salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh since the cucumbers can release moisture over time, making it less crisp.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and add in some roasted chickpeas or crispy tofu for added texture and protein. You could also sprinkle in some sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the dressing and chop the cucumbers the day before. Just remember to keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure the cucumbers stay crisp!
