This Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad is a cool and crunchy treat! Made with fresh cucumbers, ranch dressing, and tangy pickle juice, it’s perfect for hot days.
Trust me, the crunch of juicy cucumbers mixed with that zesty dressing will make you smile! I love serving it as a side at barbecues—it’s always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star of this salad! English cucumbers are a great choice as they are less seedy and have thin skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. Just peel them if they’re waxed!
Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch dressing gives this salad its flavor. If you want a lighter option, use a Greek yogurt ranch dressing, or even make your own to control the ingredients.
Pickle Juice: The acidity of pickle juice is key for flavor. If you’re out, you can use apple cider vinegar mixed with a little sugar for a similar tang. It adds that yummy zest!
Red Onion: Adding red onion gives a great crunch and flavor. If you prefer milder onions, use green onions instead or skip them altogether.
Dill: Fresh dill adds a nice herbaceous note. If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill works in a pinch. I find fresh really brightens the dish!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Has Lots of Flavor?
To get the most flavor out of your cucumber salad, let it chill! When you mix the cucumbers with the dressing and let it sit, the cucumbers soak up all those tasty spices.
- Combine cucumbers with the ranch dressing mix in a bowl.
- Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- If possible, toss it again just before serving to ensure even coating!
This resting time really allows the flavors to meld and makes each bite refreshing. Enjoy the crunch!
Refreshing Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup pickle juice (from a jar of dill pickles)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cucumber salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes in the fridge to chill and let the flavors mix. So in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and the optional red onion if you like a little extra crunch and flavor. This will be the base of your salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, pickle juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended and smooth. This dressing is what gives the salad its tasty zing!
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and gently toss to make sure all the slices are coated evenly. You want every bite to be flavorful!
4. Add the Dill:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over your salad. If using dried dill, mix it in at this stage. Give the salad another light mix to incorporate the dill.
5. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to combine and makes the salad wonderfully refreshing!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Then, enjoy your chilled Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad as a delicious side dish at your next meal!
FAQ – Refreshing Pickle Juice Ranch Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are recommended for their mild flavor and thin skin, regular cucumbers work just as well. Just peel them if they’re waxed or if you prefer a softer bite!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will release moisture over time, so you might want to give it a gentle toss to mix the flavors again before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, making it a few hours in advance or the night before can enhance the flavors. Just make sure to cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you want a healthier option, try using Greek yogurt mixed with a little buttermilk and dried herbs to mimic the ranch flavor. You could also use a homemade yogurt ranch dressing or another creamy dressing like blue cheese for a different twist!
