
Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheddar: A Fresh and Flavorful Dish
Looking for a refreshing yet hearty side dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor? This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheddar is just what you need! Crisp cucumber slices, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese come together in a creamy, tangy dressing that’s sure to please. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side for any meal.
Ingredients
To make this delicious salad, you’ll need:
- 3 medium cucumbers (sliced)
- 4 strips of bacon (crispy and crumbled)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Large spoon for mixing
- Skillet for cooking bacon (optional)
- Salad serving bowl
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash and peel the cucumbers if desired. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform pieces.
- Place the cucumber slices in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps to draw out excess water from the cucumbers, making your salad crispier.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- While the cucumbers are draining, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. After it cools, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar. Stir well until the dressing is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of tang, you can add a splash more vinegar.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber slices, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Crispy Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures even crispiness without the need to flip the bacon.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
- Customize the Flavor: Add a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of hot sauce to give the dressing a unique twist.
This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon and Cheddar is the perfect combination of fresh and savory, with a satisfying crunch from the cucumbers and a creamy, tangy dressing that ties it all together. It’s sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering!
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your results with us on social media—tag us in your photos so we can see how your delicious salad turned out! 🥒🧀🥓