Introduction

This Cucumber Caesar Salad offers a refreshing twist on the classic Caesar by swapping out romaine for crisp, thinly sliced cucumber. It’s a light, creamy salad perfect for warm days or as a crunchy side dish to your favorite meal.

The image shows a bowl filled with a creamy cucumber salad. The main layer is made of green cucumber slices with white creamy dressing coating them. Mixed in are crispy brown bacon pieces and thin, pale white flakes of cheese scattered on top. The salad is sprinkled with small, crumbly bits of golden-brown seasoning, adding a textured look. A metal fork with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl, ready to scoop the salad. The bowl is white, and the background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large English cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
Optional: Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cucumber by peeling and slicing it thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. For a less watery salad, you can lightly salt the slices and let them sit in a colander for 15-20 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese to the dressing mixture.
Step 4: Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Whisk all ingredients until the dressing is creamy and smooth. If it feels too thick, add one or two teaspoons of water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: In a large bowl, gently toss the cucumber slices with the Caesar dressing until they are evenly coated.
Step 7: Just before serving, add the croutons and gently toss again to combine.
Step 8: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. If desired, top with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Step 9: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispness, chill the cucumber slices before tossing with dressing.
Try substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten the flavor.
Homemade croutons enhance the texture and flavor but store-bought work well too.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumber might release water and soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, toss the salad gently before serving again. Avoid adding croutons until ready to serve to keep them crunchy.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a salad of thick cucumber slices coated in creamy dressing, topped with crispy brown bacon bits and thin, uneven shavings of pale yellow cheese. The salad is sprinkled with golden-brown breadcrumbs, giving a crunchy texture on top. A silver fork with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl, which sits on a soft beige cloth on a white marbled surface. The mixture of green cucumber, white creamy dressing, brown bacon, and cheese layers creates a fresh, textured look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, but English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin, making them ideal for this salad as they stay crisp and less bitter.

Is it necessary to peel the cucumber?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture and to avoid any bitterness from the skin, but you can leave it on if you prefer more fiber and a rustic look.