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Creamy cucumber salad with bacon and cheese is shown in a recipe delight image.

Creamy Bacon Cucumber Delight

This creamy bacon cucumber salad elevates a classic side dish with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy dressing. The key is salting and draining the cucumbers to prevent a watery salad, resulting in a refreshing and flavorful delight.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp Knife or Mandoline
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Paper towels
  • Whisk
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

  1. Thinly slice the cucumbers using a sharp knife or mandoline.
  2. Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. After 20 minutes, rinse the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for preventing a watery salad.
  4. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  5. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  7. Add the drained and dried cucumber slices, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped red onion (if using) to the mixing bowl with the dressing.
  8. Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated.
  9. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, chill for 1-2 hours.
  10. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir.

Notes

For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality, thick-cut bacon. Ensure the bacon is thoroughly drained to avoid a greasy salad. Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar in the dressing to your preference. The salad is best served fresh, as the cucumbers will lose their crispness over time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For a variation, try adding fresh dill or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.