Can I make cucumber salad with bacon ahead of time?

Yes, but store the components separately. Keep the sliced cucumbers and onions in one container, the dressing in another, and the bacon in a zip bag. Combine everything no more than an hour before serving so the bacon stays crispy.

What kind of cucumbers work best for this salad?

English cucumbers are the top choice. They have thinner skin, fewer seeds, and a mild flavor that works perfectly with the tangy dressing. Regular garden cucumbers also work, but you may want to peel them first.

Can I make this cucumber salad without bacon?

Absolutely. Leave out the bacon and the salad is still really good. You can add toasted sunflower seeds or croutons for a similar crunch, or just enjoy it as a light vegetable side.

How long does cucumber salad with bacon last in the fridge?

It is best eaten within one day. After that, the cucumbers release moisture and the texture softens significantly. If you want it to last a little longer, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.

Cucumber Salad with Bacon: Easy, Crispy, and So Refreshing

Description

A cool, crisp cucumber salad with smoky bacon and a tangy honey-Dijon dressing that is simple, fresh, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium cucumbers (preferably English cucumbers)
4 slices bacon
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

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Instructions

Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
Transfer bacon to paper towels and let cool completely.
Slice cucumbers into thin rounds.
Thinly slice the red onion.
Add cucumbers and onion to a large mixing bowl.
Crumble half of the bacon and add to the bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.
Pour dressing over the vegetables and toss gently.
Stir in chopped fresh dill.
Transfer to a serving dish.
Top with remaining crumbled bacon.
Chill for 10 minutes before serving if desired.

Notes

Slice cucumbers evenly for best texture. Let bacon cool before adding. Add bacon last if making ahead to keep it crispy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: No Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 165
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg