Cucumber Salad with Cheese and Crispy Bacon

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Cucumber Salad with Cheese and Crispy Bacon — fresh, crunchy, cheesy, and savory!

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

• 4-6 strips of bacon

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.

2. Prepare Cucumbers:
   Thinly slice cucumbers (you can peel them if you like, but leaving the skin adds color and crunch). If you want, sprinkle a pinch of salt on the cucumber slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess moisture to keep the salad crisp.

3. Mix the Salad:
   In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, red onion (if using), crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped herbs.

4. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper.

5. Toss and Serve:
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Tips:

• For extra zing, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing.

• Add cherry tomatoes or radishes for color and flavor variation.

• Serve chilled for a refreshing side dish.