Ranch Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad with creamy ranch flavor, topped with green onions and a tangy vinegar dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or light, healthy meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and quarter the cucumbers, then slice them.
- Chop the green onions.
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers and green onions.
- Add ranch dressing to cover the vegetables.
- Add vinegar and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the vinegar with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. You can also use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative in place of ranch dressing for a healthier twist. If you're short on time, pre-sliced cucumbers can help speed up the prep. Make sure to slice the cucumbers just before serving to maintain their crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a summer BBQ spread. Serve alongside dishes like Top Blade Steak With Vegetables or as a light side to complement heavier main courses. For a more filling meal, consider adding chickpeas or quinoa to the salad for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ranch cucumber salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release water, so it's best to drain any excess liquid before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture will become mushy upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ranch Cucumber Salad contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, it's best to add the ranch dressing and vinegar just before serving to keep the cucumbers crispy. If making the night before, keep the dressing separate and combine them when ready to serve.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even radishes for extra crunch. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also enhance the flavor. Just remember to adjust the dressing to accommodate the additional ingredients.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by using a plant-based ranch dressing. There are many delicious vegan ranch options available at grocery stores, or you can make your own using ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and herbs for a creamy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).