Why Make This Recipe

Cucumber Caesar Salad is a light and refreshing side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. It’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or even just a simple family dinner. This salad is not only easy to make but also packed with healthy ingredients. The crisp cucumber combined with romaine lettuce and a creamy Caesar dressing creates a delicious and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s a great way to get your veggies in while enjoying a classic flavor.

How to Make Cucumber Caesar Salad

Ingredients:

1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
1 medium head romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Cracked black pepper, to taste
Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Optional: croutons or crushed pita chips for added crunch

Directions:

Cut the cucumber into thin rounds using a mandoline or knife.
Wash, dry, and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cucumber, and Caesar dressing. Toss gently until everything is coated.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and add cracked black pepper to taste. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad if desired.
Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch.

How to Serve Cucumber Caesar Salad

Serve the Cucumber Caesar Salad as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or your favorite protein. The salad is best enjoyed fresh. You can also serve it in a chilled bowl to keep it cool and refreshing.

How to Store Cucumber Caesar Salad

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the cucumber can release water and make the salad soggy. It’s best to eat it within a day for the best flavor and crunch.

Tips to Make Cucumber Caesar Salad

For extra crunch, consider adding croutons or crushed pita chips to the salad just before serving.
If you want to make your own Caesar dressing, use anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, egg yolks, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese for a homemade twist.
Experiment with other toppings like cherry tomatoes or avocado for added flavor.

Variation

You can switch up the greens by adding spinach or kale for a different taste. For a twist, try using a yogurt-based Caesar dressing for a lighter version.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of cucumber?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but English cucumbers are preferred because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.

2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the base of the salad is gluten-free, but make sure to choose gluten-free croutons or avoid them if you need to keep it gluten-free.

3. How long can I keep leftovers?
Leftovers are best eaten within one day, but they can be refrigerated for up to two days if stored properly. The texture may change as the vegetables release moisture.