If you are craving a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious side dish, this Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly blends crisp English cucumbers, sweet grape tomatoes, savory bacon, and creamy ranch dressing into an irresistible salad that bursts with flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a summer crowd-pleaser or an easy-to-make salad to accompany your weeknight meals, this recipe is simple, quick, and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe. Each item plays a vital role in balancing flavors and textures, creating a refreshing yet hearty dish.
- 16 oz grape or cherry tomatoes: These bite-sized tomatoes add juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- 2 English cucumbers: Their firm yet tender crunch brings freshness and coolness to the salad.
- ¾ cup prepared ranch dressing: This creamy dressing ties everything together with its tangy, herby flavor.
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, savory depth that complements the veggies and dressing beautifully.
- 6 slices cooked chopped bacon: Brings a smoky crispness and irresistible salty bite that elevates the salad.
How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Start by slicing the English cucumbers with a sharp knife into rounds or half-moons, whichever you prefer. Then, halve the grape or cherry tomatoes and add them to a large mixing bowl. This fresh vegetable base will give your salad that crisp, garden-fresh taste that makes it so satisfying.
Step 2: Combine the Dressing and Add-Ins
Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the cucumbers and tomatoes. Then sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped, cooked bacon. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is well coated with creamy ranch and scattered with flavorful cheese and crispy bacon bits. Finish with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the refrigerator for at least an hour. This rest time allows the flavors to meld together perfectly and the salad to chill, making it even more refreshing and delicious when served.
How to Serve Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful presentation and an extra touch of freshness, garnish the salad with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley. You might also consider a few extra crumbles of bacon or a light dusting of paprika for visual appeal and flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a vibrant side alongside hearty sandwiches and burgers. Its cool, creamy nature balances smoky, spicy, or richly flavored mains with effortless grace.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve this Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe in a hollowed-out cucumber boat or glass jars for a rustic-chic feel. Layering it with extra cheese and bacon on top can create an inviting look that makes everyone eager to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cucumber tomato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness, as cucumbers can release water and make the salad soggy over time.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, so freezing is not recommended. The cucumbers and tomatoes will lose their crisp texture and become watery upon thawing.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold, reheating is unnecessary. Simply give it a gentle stir after taking it out of the fridge to redistribute the dressing and toppings before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use a different dressing instead of ranch?
Absolutely! While ranch dressing adds a creamy, tangy touch, you can substitute it with a vinaigrette or even a yogurt-based dressing to suit your taste preferences.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it, but for best texture, add the bacon and cheese right before serving to keep them crisp and flavorful.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely. Red onions, bell peppers, or avocado chunks can be fantastic additions that add extra color and flavor complexity.
What makes English cucumbers different from regular cucumbers?
English cucumbers are longer, thinner, and have a smoother, thinner skin with fewer seeds, making them ideal for a salad because they’re less bitter and more tender.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Yes! Simply replace ranch dressing with a vegan version, omit the bacon, or use plant-based bacon alternatives, and skip the cheese or use vegan cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe is such a joyful burst of flavor and color that it’s sure to become a stable part of your summer menu or anytime you want something light yet satisfying. It’s so easy to make, wonderfully fresh, and endlessly adaptable, making it a personal favorite I’m excited for you to try at home.
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Cucumber Tomato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make cucumber tomato salad featuring crisp English cucumbers, juicy grape tomatoes, creamy ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, and savory bacon. Perfect as a quick side dish or a light snack, this salad combines fresh vegetables with rich flavors for a delightful summer treat.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 16 oz grape or cherry tomatoes
- 2 English cucumbers
Dressing & Toppings
- ¾ cup prepared ranch dressing
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked chopped bacon
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers and tomatoes: Using a sharp knife, slice the English cucumbers into thin pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Cut the grape or cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the bowl.
- Add dressing and toppings: Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the sliced vegetables. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon. Toss everything gently to evenly coat all ingredients. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Chill before serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, optionally garnish with fresh parsley for added color and taste.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative.
- The salad can be prepared a few hours ahead to enhance flavor but is best served fresh.
- Use full-fat ranch dressing for richer flavor or a light version to reduce calories.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
