Cucumber Caesar Salad with Toasted Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Bacon Recipe

Introduction

This Cucumber Caesar Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Caesar, combining crisp mini cucumbers with savory bacon, tangy Parmesan, and crunchy toasted breadcrumbs. It’s a light, flavorful salad perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish to your favorite meal.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces mini seedless cucumbers
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
• 4 ounces bacon, cooked & crumbled
• 1/2 tablespoon salted butter
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing, or to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small skillet, melt 1/2 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring regularly, until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Step 2: Slice the mini cucumbers into thin 1/4-inch slices and transfer them to a large bowl.
3. Step 3: Add 1/2 cup of shaved Parmesan, 1/4 cup of crumbled bacon, 2 tablespoons of the toasted breadcrumbs, and Caesar dressing to the cucumbers. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Garnish the salad with the remaining Parmesan, bacon, and toasted breadcrumbs before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use any type of cucumbers you have available, like English or Persian cucumbers.
• Add sliced red or green onions for extra bite.
• Include chopped red pepper or tomatoes for additional color and flavor.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using extra cheese or croutons.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier salad.
• Substitute homemade croutons or Parmesan crisps for the toasted breadcrumbs.
• Use your favorite store-bought Caesar dressing if you prefer.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1 day for the best texture. Because cucumbers release moisture, the salad may become soggy if stored longer. Re-toss gently before serving if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of mini seedless cucumbers?

Yes, regular cucumbers work well. Just peel and deseed them if you prefer a less bitter taste and thinner slices for a more delicate texture.

How can I keep the breadcrumbs crispy?

Toast the breadcrumbs just before assembling the salad and add them last. You can also reserve some to sprinkle on top at serving to maintain crunchiness.

Cucumber Caesar Salad with Toasted Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Bacon Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 119 reviews

A refreshing and crunchy Cucumber Caesar Salad featuring mini seedless cucumbers, crispy bacon, shaved Parmesan, and toasted panko breadcrumbs tossed in classic Caesar dressing. This easy-to-make salad combines creamy, savory, and crispy elements for a delightful side or light meal.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad

• 16 ounces mini seedless cucumbers
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
• 4 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (or to taste)

Breadcrumbs

• 1/2 Tablespoon salted butter
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Toast Breadcrumbs: In a small skillet, melt 1/2 tablespoon of salted butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast, stirring regularly, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Slice Cucumbers: Thinly slice the mini seedless cucumbers into 1/4 inch slices and transfer them into a large mixing bowl.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon, 2 tablespoons of the toasted breadcrumbs, and Caesar dressing to the cucumber slices.
4. Toss Salad: Gently toss all ingredients in the bowl until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the dressing and other ingredients are well distributed.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the salad with the remaining Parmesan cheese, bacon, and toasted breadcrumbs before serving to add extra flavor and crunch.

Notes

• You can use any variety of cucumbers you prefer or have on hand.
• Optional additions include sliced red or green onions for extra zest.
• Add chopped red pepper or tomatoes to introduce more color and sweetness.
• Make the salad vegetarian by omitting the bacon.
• For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Substitute homemade croutons or Parmesan crisps in place of the toasted breadcrumbs.
• Use your favorite store-bought Caesar dressing if you do not have homemade dressing available.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1 day to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy due to high moisture.

Keywords: Cucumber Caesar Salad, crispy bacon salad, toasted breadcrumbs, Parmesan cucumber salad, easy summer salad, quick side dish