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A fresh Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad in a bowl, with sliced cucumbers, creamy dressing, bacon, shredded cheddar, red onion, and dill.
Layla

Addictive Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad

This irresistible Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy bacon with a creamy homemade ranch dressing, creating an explosively flavorful and highly addictive side dish or light meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Creamy Ranch Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise full-fat for best creaminess
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream full-fat preferred
  • 1/4 cup Buttermilk or milk with 1/2 tsp lemon juice/vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Chives finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/8 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground, or to taste
For the Salad
  • 2 medium English Cucumbers peeled (optional), halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion thinly sliced or finely diced
  • 6 slices Bacon thick-cut, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese shredded or finely diced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Dill extra for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Air Fryer
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Prepare the Ranch Dressing
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, fresh dill, fresh chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook the Bacon
  1. If using an air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange bacon slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if necessary). Cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy. Cooking time may vary based on bacon thickness and air fryer model.
  2. Alternatively, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain excess fat on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the crispy bacon into small pieces.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
  2. Add the crumbled crispy bacon and shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the vegetable mixture.
  3. Pour the chilled homemade ranch dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until all the vegetables, bacon, and cheese are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Serve immediately. For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh dill or chives, if desired. Enjoy your irresistible Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad!

Notes

For best results, make sure your cucumbers and tomatoes are firm and fresh. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced red onion in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before adding to the salad. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers can release water over time, diluting the dressing. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving.