Busy moms, this Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad gives you a fresh, no-fuss side dish that comes together fast and tastes like you spent more time on it than you did. It uses simple fridge staples and a creamy ranch twist that kids usually love.
If you want another crunchy, seasonal option to serve with this, try the Apple Arugula Salad with Maple Pecans for a sweet contrast to the cool cucumbers.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad Recipe
You need recipes that save time and please picky eaters. This salad needs almost no chopping and no cooking. You mix the dressing and toss. That makes it perfect for last-minute dinners, potlucks, or school events.
It stays bright in the fridge for a day or two, so you can make it ahead while you finish homework, clean up, or pack lunches. The ranch flavor keeps kids coming back for seconds, and the dill adds a light, fresh touch for adults.
How to Make Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
Ingredients
2 large cucumbers, chopped, 1 cup ranch dressing, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/2 red onion, diced, 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh dill.
- In a separate bowl, mix the ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Enjoy as a side dish or a light meal.
Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad
A fresh, no-fuss salad with crunchy cucumbers and a creamy ranch dressing, perfect for busy evenings and picky eaters.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh dill.
- In a separate bowl, mix the ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Enjoy as a side dish or a light meal.
Notes
For a milder bite, soak the diced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain. Replace dill with parsley if preferred. Store dressing separately for better texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
How to Serve
Serve this salad with grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken for an easy weeknight meal. It pairs well with sandwiches or wraps for a quick packed lunch.
For a heartier family dinner, place it next to baked fish or use it alongside roasted potatoes. It also works as a crunchy topper for bowls. Try serving it alongside Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage for a comforting, crowd-pleasing plate.
Keep small bowls out so kids can add or skip the onions. That helps picky eaters get on board without extra fuss.
How to Store
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays best for up to 48 hours. The cucumbers release water over time, so give the salad a quick toss before serving again.
If you plan to make it ahead, store the dressing separately and toss right before serving. That keeps the cucumbers crisp for longer.
Do not freeze this salad. The texture will break down when thawed.
Tips and Variations
- For a milder bite, soak the diced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain. That cuts the sharpness for kids.
- Swap fresh dill for chopped parsley if you prefer a different herb.
- Add a drained can of corn or sliced radishes to boost color and crunch.
- Use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of ranch seasoning to lighten the dressing.
- Cut cucumbers into larger chunks if your family likes chunkier textures.
Keep prep simple. Use a good chef knife and a large bowl so you can toss everything without spills.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this without ranch dressing?
A: Yes. Use plain Greek yogurt and add 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning or a little garlic and onion powder to mimic the flavor.
Q: Will this salad get soggy?
A: It can soften after a day. To avoid sogginess, toss the dressing in just before serving or store the dressing separately.
Q: Is this kid-friendly if they do not like dill?
A: Yes. Omit the dill or replace it with parsley. The ranch flavor still carries the dish.
Q: How long does it need to chill?
A: Chill for at least 30 minutes so flavors blend. You can chill up to 2 hours for a better meld.
Conclusion
This Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad gives you a fast, family-friendly side that feels fresh and homemade without extra work. Try it with simple weeknight mains or bring it to your next potluck. Save this recipe so you have a quick, crunchy option ready when life gets busy.
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