It was a sun-soaked afternoon, and the vibrant colors of summer surrounded me as I wandered through the farmers’ market, my basket growing fuller with each stop. As I meandered past stalls brimming with fresh, ripe produce, I couldn’t resist the crisp allure of cucumbers and juicy cherry tomatoes. My mind sparked with the possibility of a quick, delicious salad that would sing of summer. A blend of cool cucumbers, bursting tomatoes, and a creamy dressing seemed like just the dish to serve at our weekend picnic. Thus was born my love for the Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad—a dish that’s not only easy to whip up but also colorful and satisfying!
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking: 0 minutes
- Total Duration: 40 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Portion Size: Serves 4
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 180 calories
- Protein: 4g per serving
- Carbs: 8g per serving
- Fats: 15g per serving
- Fiber: 1g per serving
- Sugars: 3g per serving
- Sodium: 700mg per serving
Why You’ll Love This Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
This salad embodies the essence of summer—a friendly gathering of bright flavors that come together to create a refreshing, crisp side dish that elevates any meal. It’s not just the taste; it’s the experience of enjoying a salad that feels hearty yet light at the same time. The ranch dressing, with its robust creaminess, dances with the freshness of cucumbers and the zing of red onions, while the feta cheese adds a satisfying salty kick. Plus, the hint of dill infuses the entire dish with a delightful herbal note that you’ll love!
The Complete Cooking Journey
Let’s embark on this flavorful salad adventure. With just a few effortless steps, you’ll create a fresh, tasty dish perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or simply as a light dinner side.
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
### Step 1: Combine Fresh Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. This colorful trio is the base of your salad, and the crunch from the cucumbers and the sweetness of the tomatoes will create that perfect summer bite.
### Step 2: Create the Creamy Dressing
In a separate small bowl, mix the ranch dressing with feta cheese and fresh dill. This creamy mixture will add a rich depth of flavor that complements the freshness of your vegetables perfectly.
### Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Every cucumber and tomato should be coated in that luscious ranch mixture, ensuring you get a burst of flavor in every bite.
### Step 4: Season It Right
Season with salt and pepper to taste. A little sprinkle of seasoning will enhance the flavors beautifully, making sure everything shines.
### Step 5: Chill for Perfection
Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. This step not only allows the flavors to meld together beautifully but also serves up a refreshingly cool dish that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, or even a spread of cold cuts. It’s versatile enough to stand alone or complement nearly any main dish, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 2-3 days, but for the best texture, enjoy it fresh. If you find the dressing thickens too much when chilled, a little splash of buttermilk or a drizzle of olive oil can bring back the creamy consistency.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Make sure to wash your vegetables thoroughly before dicing and slicing.
- For extra crunch, add bell peppers or radishes to the mix.
- If you prefer a lighter dressing, a yogurt-based ranch can be a healthier alternative.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to experiment! Toss in some sliced olives, a handful of corn, or even diced avocado for an extra boost of flavor and texture. You can swap out dill for fresh parsley or basil if you’d like a different herbal note.
Reader Questions & Solutions
- What if I don’t have ranch dressing? You can make a homemade version using yogurt, sour cream, garlic powder, and your favorite herbs.
- Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely! Try goat cheese for a creamy tang or even cheddar for a sharper flavor.
- How do I make this vegan-friendly? Substitute the ranch with a vegan dressing and leave out the feta or replace it with a plant-based option.
- What can I add to make it a complete meal? Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa can be delicious additions for a more filling dish.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crunchy.
Wrapping Up
Creating this Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is not just about throwing ingredients into a bowl; it’s about bringing a burst of summer into your kitchen. It’s a testament to what simple, fresh ingredients can achieve, making it a go-to for mealtime joy. I encourage you to try this recipe, let it chill, and prepare for the compliments that will come your way. Happy cooking and enjoy every refreshing bite!
Print
Classic Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing summer salad featuring cool cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a creamy ranch dressing, perfect for picnics or BBQs.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the ranch dressing with feta cheese and fresh dill.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, add bell peppers or radishes. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
