Hey y’all! If you love the bold flavor of a classic Caesar salad but crave something lighter and extra refreshing, you’ve got to try this Cucumber Caesar Salad. Crisp cucumbers are tossed with garlicky Caesar dressing, crunchy homemade croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for the perfect twist on a favorite. This easy salad is the ultimate side dish for summer barbecues, weekday lunches, or anytime you want something fresh and satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Caesar Salad
- Super Refreshing: Cool, crisp cucumbers deliver irresistible crunch and freshness in every bite.
- Quick to Make: Prep and assemble the salad in just 20 minutes!
- Lighter Alternative: Swapping lettuce for cucumbers lowers calories but keeps all the Caesar flavor you love.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for entertaining or meal prep—everybody loves this modern Caesar salad twist.
- Versatile: Easily adapt with your favorite add-ins for a main or side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups English cucumbers, sliced into half-moons (about 2 large cucumbers)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Caesar croutons
- 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 2 anchovy fillets, minced
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Wash and slice the cucumbers into half-moon pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and minced anchovy fillets (if using) until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Add the croutons and shaved Parmesan. Toss lightly again just before serving so the croutons stay crisp.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately for the freshest texture, and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crunch, chill the cucumber slices before assembling the salad.
- You can make the salad ahead, but add the croutons just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the amount of Caesar dressing to your taste—add more for extra creaminess!
Variations
- Greek Twist: Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, and replace croutons with pita chips.
- Grilled Chicken Caesar: Top with grilled chicken slices for a heartier main course.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free Caesar dressing and vegan Parmesan.
Required Equipment
- Large salad bowl
- Cutting board and knife
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Vegetable peeler (for shaved Parmesan)
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, keep croutons and dressing separate and mix just before serving.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve beside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a bowl of tomato soup for a light and satisfying lunch.
- This salad is also delicious with a glass of crisp white wine.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cucumber Caesar Salad
- Use English or Persian cucumbers for the best crunch and minimal seeds.
- For beautiful presentation, use a vegetable peeler to make pretty Parmesan ribbons.
- Taste your dressing before tossing to adjust seasoning as needed.
FAQ
- Can I use another type of cucumber?
Yes! Persian cucumbers also work well and are extra crisp. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be—just use gluten-free croutons and double-check your Caesar dressing. - Can I make this ahead?
Prep the veggies and dressing, but store separately and toss with croutons just before serving to maintain crispness.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 4 cups English cucumbers, sliced into half-moons (about 2 large cucumbers)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Caesar croutons
- 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 2 anchovy fillets, minced
Instructions
-
1Wash and slice the cucumbers into half-moon pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Set aside.
-
2In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and minced anchovy fillets (if using) until smooth.
-
3In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
-
4Add the croutons and shaved Parmesan. Toss lightly again just before serving so the croutons stay crisp.
-
5Serve immediately for the freshest texture, and enjoy!
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
190cal
Protein:
6 gg
Fat:
10 gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
17 gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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