This creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing mix of crunchy cucumbers, crispy bacon, and rich cheese, all dressed in a smooth sauce. It’s perfect for picnics or as a side dish for any meal!
Honestly, who can resist that crispy bacon? I always end up adding a little extra! 😄 Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own for a tasty treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Choose large, firm cucumbers for the best crunch. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try using Persian cucumbers. They’re smaller and have fewer seeds!
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for its extra crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon is a great option, though it won’t be as crisp.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang, but you can swap it with any cheese you like. Monterrey Jack or even crumbled feta cheese work beautifully!
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mix in some avocado for creaminess. Vegans can use a plant-based mayo and yogurt.
Dill: Fresh dill adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use dried dill or even fresh parsley for a different taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Crunchy?
To keep your cucumber salad crisp and refreshing, it’s essential to remove excess moisture from the cucumbers. Here’s how:
- After slicing, sprinkle the cucumbers with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This draws out water.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the salad. This keeps your salad from getting watery!
- If you’re using red onion, you can soak it in cold water for a few minutes to soften the flavor.
These simple steps can make a big difference in the texture of your salad, ensuring each bite is as crunchy as it should be!
How to Make Creamy Cucumber Salad With Bacon and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cucumber salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour of chilling time. So, in total, you’ll be looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes to get it ready and let those flavors blend perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
First, grab a skillet and cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crisp. This might take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. After it cools, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces. Set aside for later!
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, toss in the thinly sliced cucumbers. If you’re using red onion, add that in as well. The onion gives a nice crunch and a little bite that complements the other flavors.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, pour that tasty dressing over your cucumbers and onions. Toss everything together so that the cucumbers are fully coated in that creamy goodness!
5. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Next, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon. This is where the salad gets super delicious!
6. Chill and Serve:
If you’re using fresh dill, sprinkle it on top at this point and give it a light toss. Now, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps all those fantastic flavors mix together.
7. Time to Enjoy!
Once chilled, give the salad a final stir and serve it up cold! This creamy cucumber salad with bacon and cheese is perfect as a side dish at your next barbecue or gathering. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Bacon for This Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-cooked bacon can save you a step. Just crumble it and mix it in with the cucumbers and dressing. It won’t have the same crispy texture as freshly cooked bacon, but it will still add great flavor!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your creamy cucumber salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container. The cucumbers may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt is a fantastic option that offers a similar tanginess and texture. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or some mashed avocado for creaminess!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this salad a day in advance! Just prepare everything but the dressing, and mix it in right before serving. This helps maintain the freshness and crunch of the cucumbers!
