Name: Cucumber Tomato Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 5 slices thick-cut bacon cooked and diced; 1 –2 tsp bacon drippings optional; 1 cup Ranch dressing; 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved; 2 large English cucumbers diced

This cucumber tomato salad with bacon and Ranch dressing is a bold twist on a summer classic.

Cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing come together for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing.

It’s the perfect side dish for picnics, BBQs, or easy weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tomato Salad

Loaded with flavor – bacon, Ranch, and veggies are a killer combo

Quick and easy – ready in just 10 minutes

Low carb & gluten-free – great for keto-friendly meals

Make-ahead friendly – even better after chilling

Crowd-pleasing – perfect for potlucks and cookouts

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Thick-cut bacon – crispy and salty, adds smoky flavor

Bacon drippings – optional, for even more flavor

Ranch dressing – creamy and tangy, store-bought or homemade

Cherry tomatoes – sweet, juicy, and colorful

English cucumbers – crisp and seedless, perfect for salad

Pro Tips Before You Start

Cook bacon until crispy – for the best texture

Reserve a little bacon fat – adds smoky depth to the dressing

Use English cucumbers – they’re less watery and more crisp

Chill before serving – gives the flavors time to blend

Cut tomatoes in half – they soak up more dressing that way

How to Make Cucumber Tomato Salad

Prepare the ingredients
Cook 5 slices of thick-cut bacon until crisp, then chop.

Halve one pint of cherry tomatoes and dice 2 large English cucumbers.

Make the dressing
In a small bowl, stir together 1–2 tsp bacon drippings with 1 cup Ranch dressing and the chopped bacon until fully combined.

Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, add tomatoes and cucumbers.

Pour the bacon-Ranch mixture over the veggies.

Toss gently to coat evenly.

Season and chill
Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

What to Serve It With

Grilled chicken, steak, or burgers

BBQ ribs or pulled pork

Tacos or fajitas

Cornbread or biscuits

Iced tea or lemonade

Variations / Substitutions

Use turkey bacon for a lighter option

Add avocado chunks for extra creaminess

Sprinkle shredded cheddar for a loaded salad vibe

Swap Ranch for Caesar or blue cheese dressing

Include chopped red onion or bell pepper for extra crunch

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days

Best chilled: Let sit 1 hour before serving for best flavor

Avoid freezing: The veggies lose texture

Re-toss before serving: To redistribute dressing

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

Can I skip the bacon drippings?
Absolutely. They’re optional but add flavor.

What kind of cucumber is best?
English cucumbers are preferred because they’re crisp and seedless.

Can I use bottled Ranch?
Yes! Use your favorite brand or homemade Ranch.

How long does this salad last?
It’s best within 3 days, but store it well covered.

Can I add other veggies?
Definitely! Try bell peppers, red onion, or avocado.

Is it keto-friendly?
Yes, especially if you use a low-carb Ranch dressing.

Final Thoughts

This Cucumber Tomato Salad with Bacon & Ranch is everything you want in a side dish—fresh, crunchy, creamy, and downright craveable.

Whether it’s for a backyard BBQ or a quick weekday lunch, it’s sure to be a hit.