Introduction

This Cucumber Caesar Salad is a fresh, crunchy twist on the classic Caesar. With a creamy, tangy dressing and crisp cucumber slices, it’s a light and refreshing dish perfect for warm days or as a vibrant side.

A white bowl holds a creamy cucumber salad with three main layers: the bottom layer is bright green cucumber slices coated in a white creamy dressing, the middle layer has small brown bits of crispy bacon scattered unevenly, and the top layer is sprinkled with light brown breadcrumbs and several thin, pale yellow cheese shavings placed mostly on top of the cucumbers. The salad looks fresh and textured, with a wooden handled fork resting inside the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth nearby. 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 extra crunch, lightly salt the slices and let them sit in a colander for 15-20 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese to the dressing mixture.
Step 4: Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Whisk all ingredients until the dressing is creamy and smooth. If it feels too thick, add a teaspoon or two of water to thin it to your preferred consistency.
Step 6: In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced cucumber with the Caesar dressing until evenly coated.
Step 7: Just before serving, add the croutons and toss gently to combine.
Step 8: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Top with grilled chicken or shrimp if desired.
Step 9: Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and fresh flavors.

Tips & Variations

Salting the cucumber slices helps draw out moisture, making the salad less watery and more flavorful.
For a lighter dressing, swap half the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt.
Add anchovy paste to the dressing for a more traditional Caesar flavor.
Try adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
Use gluten-free croutons or nuts like toasted almonds for a crunchy alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumber may release water and soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If refrigerated, add croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch. Reheating is not recommended.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a salad in a white bowl. The salad has several layers: thick slices of green cucumbers form the main base, coated with a creamy white dressing. Scattered on top are brown crispy bacon pieces and thin, off-white cheese slices. A crunchy-looking, crumbly mix of light brown and specks of black seasoning is sprinkled throughout the salad, adding texture. A silver fork with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl, partially buried in the salad. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cucumbers?

English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and few seeds, but you can substitute with regular cucumbers peeled and seeded for best results.

Is this dressing dairy-free?

The dressing contains Parmesan cheese, so it’s not dairy-free. You can omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative if needed.