Kickstarting your meal prep with a refreshing twist, this Cucumber Cobb Salad is your go-to for a light yet satisfying dish. Perfect for those warm summer days or when you’re craving something crunchy and colorful. Let’s dive into making this vibrant salad that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Why This Recipe Works
- The crispness of fresh cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy avocado and tender chicken.
- Hard-boiled eggs and crispy bacon bring a protein-packed punch, making this salad a hearty meal on its own.
- A homemade buttermilk dressing ties all the flavors together with a tangy and herby note that’s irresistibly delicious.
- It’s customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or your dietary preferences.
- Perfect for meal prep, as the components can be prepared ahead and assembled when ready to eat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cucumbers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- For the dressing: 1/2 cup buttermilk, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by dicing the cucumbers, avocado, and chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the hard-boiled eggs and crumble the cooked bacon. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the assembly process a breeze.
Make the Buttermilk Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, avocado, hard-boiled eggs, chicken breast, bacon, blue cheese, and red onion. Drizzle with the buttermilk dressing and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Serve Immediately
For the best texture and flavor, serve the salad immediately after assembling. If you need to prepare it ahead, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feta or goat cheese make excellent substitutes. To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and bacon and add more avocado or chickpeas for protein. For a low-carb version, skip the croutons and add more cucumbers and tomatoes. Always taste your dressing before adding it to the salad to ensure it’s perfectly seasoned.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.
- Add quinoa or farro for an extra grain component that makes the salad even more filling.
- Use a mix of different colored cherry tomatoes for a more visually appealing dish.
- Try a different dressing, like a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy ranch, to change up the flavor profile.
- Incorporate different herbs like dill or cilantro for a fresh flavor boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep all the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
How long does the dressing last in the fridge?
The buttermilk dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before using.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While blue cheese adds a distinct flavor, feta, goat cheese, or even cheddar can be used as substitutes based on your preference.
Summary
This Cucumber Cobb Salad is a refreshing and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy buttermilk dressing, it’s a delightful twist on the classic Cobb salad that’s sure to impress.
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