Summer heat, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner — this Chilled Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad fits every occasion. Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh flavors, it’s a salad that practically eats itself.
The crisp cucumbers meet a luscious ranch dressing, shredded cheese, and crunchy crackers, creating a combination that’s refreshing yet indulgent. It’s cool, flavorful, and addictive — one bite, and you’ll understand why it’s called “crack” salad!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥒 Ultra-refreshing: Perfect chilled for hot days or after a spicy meal.
- 🧀 Cheesy goodness: Shredded cheese adds creamy richness.
- 🍽️ Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, and parties.
- ⏱️ Quick prep: Ready in under 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
- 🌿 Versatile: Add tomatoes, bacon bits, or herbs to personalize.
Ingredients
- 4–5 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (Ritz or similar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh dill or parsley
- Cherry tomato halves for color
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice cucumbers. Place them in a large mixing bowl. If desired, lightly salt the cucumbers and let them sit for 5 minutes to remove excess water, then pat dry.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine:
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Ranch seasoning
Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
Add shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions to the cucumbers. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Add the Crackers
Just before serving, gently fold in crushed crackers for that signature crunch. Avoid adding them too early — they’ll get soggy if left in the fridge for hours.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures it’s perfectly cool and refreshing.
Garnish with fresh herbs or cherry tomatoes for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for Success
- Prevent soggy crackers: Add them right before serving.
- Cucumber prep: Thin slices work best, but you can dice for bite-sized pieces.
- Extra creamy: Mix in a little cream cheese with the dressing for a richer texture.
- Flavor boost: Add a dash of garlic powder or lemon juice to the dressing.
- Make ahead: Prep all ingredients except crackers 1 day in advance.
Variations & Add-Ons
🌿 Veggie-packed: Add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cherry tomatoes.
🥗 Protein boost: Toss in cooked chicken, turkey, or ham cubes.
🧀 Cheese upgrade: Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
🌶️ Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.
🥬 Green salad version: Mix with fresh lettuce or spinach for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
- Potluck star: Serve chilled in a colorful salad bowl with extra crackers on the side.
- Weeknight side: Perfect with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches.
- Snack attack: Spoon into small cups for easy grab-and-go portions.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Don’t add crackers yet: Keep them separate until serving for crunch.
- Serve cold: This salad is best chilled for maximum flavor and texture.
Why This Recipe Works
The Chilled Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad is a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures. The crisp cucumbers contrast beautifully with the creamy, tangy ranch dressing. Cheddar cheese adds richness, while the buttery crackers give that irresistible crunch.
It’s refreshing yet indulgent, simple yet crowd-pleasing, and always a hit at gatherings. One forkful and it’s easy to see why this salad gets rave reviews wherever it’s served. 🥒🧀✨
