Name: Refreshing Cucumber Caesar Salad: A No-Lettuce Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 medium English Cucumbers (Sliced into thin rounds); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (For drawing out moisture); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (For crunchy topping); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Shaved); 1/2 cup Neutral Oil (Canola or grapeseed); 2 fillets Anchovy Fillets (Omit for vegetarian version); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (Or Greek yogurt); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Or yellow mustard)

As the sun begins to shine brighter and the temperatures rise, I find myself craving something light and refreshing—but not just any salad will do. Enter the Cucumber Caesar Salad, a delightful twist on the classic favorite! This quick, no-lettuce salad perfectly showcases the simple joy of crisp cucumber slices, paired with a creamy dressing that dances on the palate. It’s an ideal choice for those warm summer evenings or a fantastic make-ahead option for potlucks and picnics. With its low-carb profile, this salad not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps your meal plans on track. Curious how this vibrant dish can elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Cucumber Caesar Salad a Must-Try?

Light and Refreshing: This salad takes the classic Caesar to new heights by eliminating lettuce and letting the crisp cucumbers shine.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip this dish up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dressing in advance and simply toss it with the cucumbers before serving, saving you time when you need it most.

Versatile & Customizable: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for a personalized twist. You could also try swapping in some hearty ingredients from our Quinoa Chickpea Salad for extra nutrition!

Crispy Texture: The toasty panko breadcrumbs and shaved Parmesan provide delightful crunch and flavor, ensuring every bite is packed with goodness!

So why not elevate your next meal with this refreshing take on a beloved classic? You deserve it!

Cucumber Caesar Salad Ingredients

• Get ready to create a refreshing dish!

For the Salad
• English Cucumbers – A crunchy base that adds a refreshing twist to your Cucumber Caesar Salad.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor while drawing out excess water from cucumbers for better texture.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – For a delightful crunchy topping; try crushed crackers for a different flavor profile.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option if needed.

For the Dressing
• Neutral Oil (e.g., canola or grapeseed) – Helps emulsify the dressing and cook the breadcrumbs; avoid extra virgin olive oil for neutrality.
• Anchovy Fillets or Paste – Adds umami richness; omit for a vegetarian version or replace with capers.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic delivers aromatic depth; powdered garlic can work in a pinch.
• Black Pepper – Freshly cracked for the best flavor; adds a gentle kick.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens up the dressing; vinegar can be used in its place if needed.
• Mayonnaise – Creates creaminess in the dressing; Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute.
• Dijon Mustard – Contributes zest and aids in emulsifying; swap with yellow mustard if necessary.

With these ingredients ready to go, you’ll soon savor a deliciously unique Cucumber Caesar Salad that will impress family and friends alike!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cucumber Caesar Salad

Step 1: Prepare Cucumbers
Begin by thoroughly washing the English cucumbers. Slice them into thin rounds and place them in a colander. Sprinkle kosher salt over the cucumber slices and let them drain for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it draws out excess water, ensuring your Cucumber Caesar Salad maintains a perfect texture.

Step 2: Toast Breadcrumbs
In a small skillet over medium heat, pour in a tablespoon of neutral oil and let it warm for a moment. Add the panko breadcrumbs, stirring frequently, and toast them until they turn golden brown—this should take about 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, then remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make Dressing
In a mixing bowl, finely chop the anchovy fillets and garlic. Add the chopped items along with lemon juice, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Gradually drizzle in neutral oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. This rich dressing will beautifully coat your Cucumber Caesar Salad.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
After the cucumbers have drained, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Place the cucumbers in a large mixing bowl and pour the prepared dressing over them. Toss the mixture gently until the cucumber slices are evenly coated, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Transfer the dressed cucumber mixture onto a serving plate, creating an inviting presentation. Sprinkle the toasted panko breadcrumbs generously over the top, followed by shavings of Parmesan cheese. Serve your Cucumber Caesar Salad immediately to enjoy the delightful crunch and creamy flavor in every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Cucumber Caesar Salad components are perfect for meal prep! You can slice cucumbers and salt them up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to drain excess water overnight. Meanwhile, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just be sure to re-whisk it before use to restore its creamy texture. Toasted breadcrumbs should be made fresh as they can lose their crunch over time, but you can prep the panko and oil mixture the day prior. When ready to serve, simply combine the prepared cucumbers and dressing, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and enjoy a delightful salad with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Cucumber Caesar Salad

Looking to create a delightful meal around this refreshing dish? Discover the perfect pairings that will elevate your dining experience.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These succulent skewers add a smoky flavor that beautifully complements the creamy dressing in the salad, enhancing its seaside vibe.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears tossed with olive oil and garlic provide a savory element, contrasting with the cool, crisp cucumbers for a balanced plate.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread serves as a delightful accompaniment, inviting you to savor every last bite of the delicious dressing. The warmth melds beautifully with the salad’s chill.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, protein-packed side pairs wonderfully with your Cucumber Caesar Salad, adding heartiness without overshadowing its refreshing nature.
Sliced Watermelon Feta Salad: A fruity, slightly salty salad transports your taste buds, creating a refreshing medley that works harmoniously with the Caesar-ness.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, acidic white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, refreshes the palate with every sip, enhancing the salad’s bright flavors while providing a soothing experience.
Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note with this light dessert. Its citrus notes echo the lemon juice in the salad, offering a harmonious finish.

Embrace these pairings to create a memorable meal that whispers summer while ensuring each bite is as delightful as the last!

How to Store and Freeze Cucumber Caesar Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that cucumbers will soften and the dressing may separate over time.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as cucumbers do not thaw well and will become mushy. Enjoy fresh for the best texture!

Reheating: If you’ve added grilled chicken or shrimp, you can reheat proteins separately and then toss them back with the salad. Keep the Cucumber Caesar Salad cold for optimum taste and crunch.

Cucumber Caesar Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful Cucumber Caesar Salad your own with these tasty twists and swaps!

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to transform it into a more filling meal while keeping it refreshing.
Veggie Swap: Replace cucumbers with grilled zucchini or colorful bell peppers for a fun summer twist that’s still crunchy and delightful.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a completely dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.
Zesty Dressing: Mix in a teaspoon of capers or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra layer of flavor and kick.
Crunchy Alternatives: For a different crunch, try toasted nuts or seeds instead of panko breadcrumbs, adding a delightful nutty flavor.
Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or dill for a fragrant lift that pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing. You could also incorporate flavors from a refreshing Spring Confetti Salad to elevate your dish!
Vegan Version: Swap the mayo for silken tofu blended until smooth, and skip the anchovies for a completely plant-based dressing.
Tangy Add-ins: Consider mixing in a handful of cherry tomatoes or olives to introduce a burst of color and flavor that complements the salad beautifully.

These variations can help you recreate the recipe time and again while keeping it exciting! Plus, if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out the vibrant Easy Fruit Salad for a refreshing side to any meal!

Expert Tips for Cucumber Caesar Salad

Drain Well: Ensure to let the cucumbers drain and pat them dry after salting. This prevents the dressing from becoming watery and keeps your Cucumber Caesar Salad crisp.
Make Ahead: The dressing can be prepared days in advance. Store it in the fridge and give it a quick whisk before tossing with cucumbers.
Breadcrumb Watch: When toasting panko breadcrumbs, keep an eye on them. They can burn quickly—remove them from heat when they’re golden for perfect crunch.
Customize Wisely: If adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, make sure they are well-seasoned and cooked before incorporating them into the salad for the best flavor.
Storage Tip: Although this salad is best served fresh, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Note that cucumbers may soften overnight.

Cucumber Caesar Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of cucumbers should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! English cucumbers are ideal due to their crisp texture and fewer seeds. However, you can substitute with Persian cucumbers or even classic slicing cucumbers if needed. Just ensure the cucumbers are firm and free from any dark spots for the best experience!

How should I store leftovers of Cucumber Caesar Salad?
Very good question! Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers will soften and the dressing may separate, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you’re planning to have leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Cucumber Caesar Salad?
Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended for this salad. Cucumbers have a high water content and will turn mushy when thawed. Instead, I suggest enjoying it fresh or preparing the dressing ahead of time to save effort later on!

How can I make the dressing in advance?
Absolutely, you can make the dressing a couple of days in advance! Simply whisk together the anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper as instructed, then store it in a sealed container in the fridge. When you’re ready to toss your salad, just re-whisk the dressing as it may separate a bit when chilled.

Is there a vegetarian option for the dressing?
Very much so! If you’re looking for a vegetarian version of the dressing, simply omit the anchovies and use capers instead. They offer a similar umami punch while keeping it plant-based! You can also use vegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.

What should I do if my dressing is too thick?
If you find your dressing is too thick after making it, don’t fret! Simply add a teaspoon of water or extra lemon juice to thin it out. Whisk again until you achieve your desired consistency—it should be creamy yet pourable to beautifully coat the cucumbers.