Cucumber Snack That Hits Spot

This simple cucumber snack has become my go-to solution for those afternoons when I need something satisfying yet light. The combination of cool cucumber with savory toppings creates the perfect balance of refreshment and indulgence.

I first created this recipe during a particularly hot summer when I needed something refreshing but substantial. It's since become my husband's favorite afternoon snack, and he often makes it himself when working from home.

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: Provide the perfect crunchy base and hydration. Choose firm ones without soft spots for best results
• Shredded cheese: Adds satisfying protein and richness. Freshly grated melts more evenly than pre-packaged
• Bacon bits: Bring savory depth. Real bacon bits offer better flavor than imitation
• Black pepper: Adds classic spice that complements the cool cucumber
• Old Bay seasoning: Introduces a complex flavor profile with its blend of herbs and spices
• Salad Supreme seasoning: Provides color and tangy notes. Look for it in the spice aisle
• Avocado lime ranch dressing: Ties everything together with creamy texture and brightness. The avocado base makes it richer than standard ranch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the cucumbers:

Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water to remove any residue. Pat them dry with a paper towel before slicing. Cut into rounds approximately ¼ inch thick for the perfect bite size that balances crunch with tenderness. For an elegant presentation, you can use a crinkle cutter to create ridged edges that will hold more dressing.

Create the base:

Place the cucumber slices in a medium bowl that gives you enough room to toss without spillage. If preparing in advance, pat the slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture which can make the dish watery.

Add the flavor builders:

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the cucumbers. Follow with the bacon bits, distributing them so every bite will have some savory goodness. The seasonings come next black pepper, Old Bay, and Salad Supreme should be added with a light hand as they can be adjusted later after tasting.

Finish with dressing:

Drizzle the avocado lime ranch dressing over everything, starting with less than you think you need. The cucumbers will release some moisture as they sit, so a light coating works best. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold everything together, ensuring each cucumber slice gets coated without breaking them.

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The Old Bay seasoning is truly the secret ingredient here. I discovered this combination when I ran out of my usual seasonings and grabbed whatever was in my spice cabinet. The distinctive blend of herbs and spices in Old Bay usually reserved for seafood turned out to be magical with cucumbers. My daughter now refuses to eat this snack without it.

Make Ahead Options

This cucumber snack is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain its crunch and texture. However, you can prep components ahead of time to make assembly quick when needed. Slice cucumbers and store them in a container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Keep refrigerated for up to 24 hours. The cheese can be shredded in advance and stored in a separate container. When ready to eat, simply assemble as directed in the recipe.

Customize Your Creation

The beauty of this cucumber snack lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit different tastes or what you have available. Try substituting feta or blue cheese for a more tangy flavor profile. Vegetarians can replace bacon bits with roasted sunflower seeds or crushed nuts for that essential crunchy element. For a spicier version, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. Those watching sodium can reduce the bacon bits and season with herbs like dill or chives instead.

Nutritional Benefits

Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this snack extremely hydrating. They also contain vitamin K, which supports bone health, and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. The cheese provides calcium and protein, turning this simple dish into something more substantial. By using a moderate amount of bacon bits and dressing, you get maximum flavor while keeping calories in check. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to increase vegetable intake without sacrificing satisfaction.

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Enjoy this quick and refreshing snack that feels indulgent while staying light and healthy!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this cucumber snack ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Slice the cucumbers and store them separately from the other ingredients. Combine everything just before serving to maintain the crisp texture and prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.

→ What are good substitutes for avocado lime ranch dressing?

If you don't have avocado lime ranch on hand, you can substitute with regular ranch, Greek yogurt with lime juice, or even a light vinaigrette. Each alternative will create a different flavor profile while still complementing the cucumbers and toppings.

→ Where can I find Salad Supreme seasoning?

Salad Supreme is commonly found in the spice or salad dressing aisle of most grocery stores. If unavailable, you can substitute with a blend of paprika, celery salt, and Italian seasoning for a similar flavor profile.

→ How can I make this cucumber snack more filling?

To make this snack more substantial, consider adding diced avocado, hard-boiled eggs, or cooked quinoa. You could also serve it over a bed of mixed greens or alongside whole grain crackers for a more complete mini-meal.

→ Is this cucumber snack keto-friendly?

Yes, this snack is generally keto-friendly as cucumbers are low in carbs while cheese and bacon provide healthy fats. Just verify that your specific dressing and seasonings don't contain added sugars or starches that might increase the carb count.

→ What other vegetables work well with this topping combination?

Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, celery sticks, or jicama slices would all work well with these toppings. You could create a variety platter with multiple vegetables using the same cheese, bacon, and seasoning combination.