Recipe Card
Hook – Quick Description:
Cool cucumbers, smoky bacon, zesty seasoning, and creamy avocado lime ranch — a refreshing salad that’s anything but boring!
Servings & Timing:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Dietary Badges:
🥒 Low-Carb Friendly
🥓 Bacon Lover’s Salad
🧀 Cheese Optional
Ingredients (Checklist Style):
For the Salad:
2 cucumbers, sliced
¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
2 tbsp bacon bits (real or turkey bacon)
Black pepper (pinch)
Old Bay seasoning (sprinkle)
Salad Supreme seasoning (dash, recipe below)
2 tbsp avocado lime ranch dressing
For Salad Supreme Seasoning (Homemade Blend):
1 ½ tsp sesame seeds
1 tsp paprika
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp poppy seeds
½ tsp celery seed
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp coarse black pepper
1 dash cayenne pepper
2 tbsp Romano cheese (optional, can skip for dairy-free)
Instructions (Concise & Numbered):
Slice cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, add to a bowl.
Add shredded cheese, bacon bits, pepper, Old Bay, and Salad Supreme seasoning.
Drizzle with avocado lime ranch dressing.
Toss gently until evenly coated.
Serve immediately for crisp freshness.
Additional Notes:
Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and thinner skin.
If making ahead, slice cucumbers just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Salad Supreme seasoning can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Brief Introduction
This Zesty Cucumber Bacon Salad is a crunchy, refreshing salad with a flavor kick from Old Bay and Salad Supreme. The bacon adds smokiness, cheese adds creaminess, and the avocado lime ranch pulls it all together. It’s a quick, easy side dish for summer BBQs, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Prepping Cucumbers
Wash and slice cucumbers into bite-sized chunks.
Pat dry to prevent watery salad.
Building the Salad
Add cucumbers, cheese, bacon, and spices.
Adjust seasonings to taste — more cayenne for heat, or extra Old Bay for zest.
Dressing It Up
Drizzle avocado lime ranch over the mix.
Toss gently so cucumbers stay crisp.
Tip: Serve cold for the most refreshing crunch.
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Regular or English both work; zucchini can be swapped in.
Bacon: Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for lighter option.
Cheese: Cheddar = sharp, mozzarella = mild, feta = tangy.
Seasonings: Salad Supreme can be homemade (recipe included) or store-bought.
Dressing: Swap avocado lime ranch for Greek yogurt ranch or a squeeze of lemon for lighter option.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, feta, and lemon vinaigrette.
Southwest Style: Add corn, black beans, and extra cayenne.
Extra Crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or roasted nuts.
Serving Ideas:
Perfect alongside grilled chicken or steak.
Great as a BBQ side dish.
Works as a light lunch with toasted pita.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can refrigerate up to 24 hours.
Make-Ahead Tip: Mix seasoning and bacon in advance; add cucumbers + dressing just before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated, per serving, 2 servings)
Calories: ~180 kcal
Protein: 7g
Carbs: 8g
Fat: 14g
🥒 Low-Carb | 🥓 Keto-Friendly Option
FAQs
Q: Can I make this without cheese?
A: Yes — it’s still flavorful and crisp without cheese.
Q: What’s a good substitute for Old Bay?
A: Smoked paprika + celery salt gives a similar flavor.
Q: Can I use bottled Salad Supreme seasoning?
A: Absolutely — but homemade is fresher and customizable.
Q: How do I make it lighter for WW or calorie-conscious diets?
A: Use turkey bacon, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt ranch instead of creamy dressing.
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