Introduction
This Creamy Cucumber and Bacon Salad is a perfect blend of crunchy cucumbers, savory bacon, and creamy dressing. It’s quick to prepare and makes a delicious side dish or light snack. With the addition of cheddar cheese, garlic, and onion flavors, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit at picnics, barbecues, or any gathering.
-Ingredients
2 cups sliced cucumbers
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/3 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
-Instructions
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. For added crunch, leave the peel on, or peel them if you prefer a softer texture.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then crumble it into small pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Serve:
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra bacon or shredded cheese, if desired.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
-Serving Suggestions
This salad is versatile and pairs beautifully with:
Grilled meats like steak, chicken, or burgers.
Sandwiches or wraps for a light and refreshing side.
Barbecue spreads as a cool contrast to smoky flavors.
-Tips for Success
1. Use Fresh Cucumbers: Crisp cucumbers work best for this salad. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are excellent options as they have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
2. Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a splash of milk or lemon juice to the mixture.
3. Make It Ahead: Prepare the dressing and cook the bacon in advance for faster assembly. However, mix the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
-Variations
1. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped dill, parsley, or chives for an herbaceous twist.
2. Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
3. Keto-Friendly Option: Substitute the cheddar cheese with parmesan and reduce the mayonnaise for a lower-carb version.
4. Vegetarian Alternative: Replace bacon with crispy fried onions or toasted nuts for a similar crunch.
-Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~210 kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 15 minutes.
Flavorful and Versatile: A perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and smoky flavors.
Customizable: Easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
-Conclusion
This Creamy Cucumber and Bacon Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes