If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and simple dish to whip up, this Easy Cucumber Bacon Salad is the perfect choice! Combining the crispness of cucumbers with the smoky, savory goodness of bacon, this salad is a delightful blend of textures and tastes. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and works as a fantastic side dish or light meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just want a refreshing addition to your weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
Fast and Simple: Prepared in only 15 minutes, it’s ideal for hectic schedules.
Bold Flavors: The salty bacon pairs beautifully with the cool, crisp cucumber.
Adaptable: Enjoy it as a side dish, a quick snack, or a light midday meal.
Customizable: Easily tweak it with your favorite ingredients or dressings.
Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings!
Ingredients :
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
6 bacon slices, fried to a crisp and broken into bits
1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
One teaspoon of dried dill or one tablespoon of freshly chopped dill
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for bacon, if not pre-cooked)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Method :
Cook the Bacon: If not using pre-cooked bacon, fry the strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Let it drain on paper towels and break into pieces after cooling.
Prep the Cucumbers: Rinse and thinly cut the cucumbers. For a drier texture, dab them with a paper towel.
Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine: In a large bowl, toss the sliced cucumbers, crumbled bacon, and red onion (if using). Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Cool and Enjoy: For optimal taste, refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes prior to serving. Garnish with extra dill or bacon bits, if desired.
Storage and Serving Suggestions :
Keep It Fresh: Place leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release water over time, so give it a quick stir before serving again.
Serving Suggestions: Pair this Easy Cucumber Bacon Salad with grilled chicken, burgers, or a hearty sandwich. It doubles as a standalone option for a crisp, refreshing snack.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Cup):
Calories: 180
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 320mg
Sugar: 2g
Variations & Substitutions :
Lighter Version: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and use turkey bacon.
Veggie Boost: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or shredded carrots.
Dressing Twist: Try ranch dressing or a splash of lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, just double-check your bacon ingredients.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Additional Tips :
For extra crunch, toast the bacon until it’s super crispy.
Slice evenly with a mandoline for consistent, thin cucumber rounds.
If making ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid soggy cucumbers.
Fresh dill really elevates the flavor, so opt for it over dried if possible!
FAQ :
1- Is it possible to prepare Easy Cucumber Bacon Salad in advance?
Yes! Prep the components (cucumbers, bacon, and dressing) separately and mix them just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
2- Is Easy Cucumber Bacon Salad keto-friendly?
Absolutely! With low carbs and high fat from the bacon and dressing, it fits well into a keto diet.
3- How long does Easy Cucumber Bacon Salad last in the fridge?
It’s best within 2 days. Over time, the dressing might cause the cucumbers to lose their crunch.
4- Can I use a different dressing for Easy Cucumber Bacon Salad?
Definitely! Ranch, vinaigrette, or even a creamy Caesar dressing would work wonderfully.
Conclusion :
This Easy Cucumber Bacon Salad is a must-try for anyone who loves a quick, delicious, and satisfying dish. The combination of crunchy cucumbers and smoky bacon, tied together with a creamy, tangy dressing, makes it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to something tasty, this salad delivers every time. Give it a whirl, and enjoy the fresh, savory goodness!