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Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad

Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad: Your Summer Side Dish Essential

Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is the perfect summer side dish that combines refreshing cucumbers, savory bacon, and creamy ranch dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 large English Cucumbers A refreshing crunch; use for fewer seeds.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Chop finely for an even mix.
  • 2 cups Rotini Pasta Cook it al dente for the best texture.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Feel free to substitute with any small tomatoes.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Can use chives or green onions as alternatives.
  • 6 slices Cooked Bacon Introduce a savory, crispy element.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Forms the creamy dressing base.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Enhances the richness.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Dill Imparts a herby flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds depth and aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Complements the dressing.
  • to taste Salt Season to taste, bringing out all flavors.
  • to taste Black Pepper Season to taste, bringing out all flavors.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Adds richness; use freshly grated for best flavor.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Mandoline slicer
  • Pot

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Rinse and dry the cucumbers thoroughly before slicing them into ¼-inch rounds.
  2. Finely chop the red onion, ensuring you have small, even pieces.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rotini, cucumbers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
  6. Gently fold the dressing into the salad mixture until combined without over-mixing.
  7. Mix in the cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
  8. Garnish before serving with extra parsley and bacon crumbles, then serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 7gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 540mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; the flavors will develop further, making it even tastier the next day.

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