Save In the world of salads, sometimes the most unexpected swaps create the most delightful surprises. This Cucumber Caesar Salad reimagines the beloved classic by replacing traditional romaine lettuce with crisp, hydrating cucumber. The result is a refreshing twist that maintains all the creamy, tangy goodness of a Caesar salad while offering a lighter, more cooling experience. Perfect for warm summer days or as a side dish that won't weigh you down, this innovation proves that culinary creativity often comes from simple substitutions.
Save This salad comes together in minutes but delivers complex flavors that belie its simple preparation. The crisp, cool cucumber provides the perfect canvas for the rich, garlicky Caesar dressing. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from both the fresh vegetables and the toasty croutons, while the Parmesan adds that signature umami depth that makes Caesar salad so universally beloved.
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Optional additions: grilled chicken or shrimp, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, crispy bacon, fresh herbs, anchovy fillets, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber
- Peel the cucumber fully or in stripes for added texture, then slice thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). Optional but recommended: Sprinkle slices with a little salt, let sit in a colander for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then rinse and pat dry.
- Make the dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt until creamy. Add anchovies, red pepper flakes, or adjust seasonings to taste if desired. If the dressing is too thick, thin with 1–2 teaspoons of water.
- Assemble the salad
- In a large bowl, gently toss cucumber slices with enough Caesar dressing to coat. Add optional cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, bacon, or herbs if using.
- Finish and serve
- Just before serving, add croutons and toss gently. Transfer to a serving bowl or plates, garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper. Top with grilled chicken or shrimp if desired.
- Serve immediately
- For the best texture, enjoy right away.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the crispest cucumber slices, use a mandoline slicer if you have one available. This ensures uniform thickness and perfect texture in every bite. If you're preparing components ahead of time, store the cucumber slices and dressing separately, combining them just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy. The dressing can be made up to three days in advance and kept refrigerated in an airtight container.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile salad welcomes many adaptations. For a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise, omit the Parmesan and Worcestershire sauce, and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For additional texture, try mixing in thinly sliced fennel or celery. If you enjoy spice, increase the amount of black pepper or add more red pepper flakes. For a heartier meal, top with grilled salmon or tuna instead of chicken or shrimp.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this cucumber Caesar salad as a light starter before a Mediterranean-inspired main course, or as a refreshing side dish with grilled meats at a summer barbecue. For an elegant presentation, arrange the dressed cucumber slices in overlapping circles on individual plates, then top with croutons, Parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This salad also makes a perfect light lunch when paired with a slice of crusty bread.
Save This Cucumber Caesar Salad might become your new go-to for a quick weeknight side or an impressive addition to your entertaining menu. The familiar flavors of Caesar dressing paired with the cool crispness of cucumber create a harmonious balance that appeals to salad lovers and skeptics alike. Plus, with its vibrant appearance and versatility, it's as beautiful as it is delicious - proving that sometimes the simplest innovations create the most memorable dishes.
Recipe Questions
- → What makes this salad lighter than the classic version?
Swapping romaine with thinly sliced cucumber reduces heaviness while maintaining crunch and moisture, creating a refreshing texture.
- → Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dressing in advance and store separately. Combine with cucumber slices just before serving to keep freshness.
- → How do I get a creamy texture without overpowering flavors?
Balancing mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard achieves a rich but tangy dressing that complements crisp cucumber perfectly.
- → Are there options for adding protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken or shrimp can be added to boost protein, enhancing this salad’s appeal as a satisfying meal.
- → What are some suitable toppings for extra flavor?
Cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, red onion, crispy bacon, or fresh herbs like dill and parsley bring additional layers of taste and texture.
- → How do I make homemade croutons for this salad?
Toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.