Creamy Cucumber Salad with Cheese and Bacon

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Cucumbers:** Start by peeling the cucumbers (if preferred) and slicing them into thin rounds. You can also slice them into half-moons if you prefer larger pieces. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl.

2. **Cook the Bacon:** In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet and drain on a paper towel. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

3. **Make the Dressing:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, white vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic powder, dried dill (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

4. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and thinly sliced red onion to the bowl with the cucumbers. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and toss everything together gently, ensuring the cucumbers are coated evenly.

5. **Chill and Serve:** For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to get nice and cold. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and extra freshness.

6. **Serve:** Serve the creamy cucumber salad as a side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or alongside a hearty meal. It also makes a great lunch or light dinner on its own.

#### Tips for Success:

– **Make it lighter:** If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, or use a reduced-fat sour cream for fewer calories.
– **Add extra veggies:** Feel free to add more veggies to the salad, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture.
– **Cheese variety:** While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta, gouda, or parmesan, to create a unique twist.
– **Bacon alternatives:** If you’re not a fan of bacon or prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute crispy bacon with roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.

#### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

– **Fresh and crunchy:** The cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch that’s perfect for warm weather or alongside any grilled dish.
– **Creamy and indulgent:** The dressing adds a creamy richness that’s balanced with the sharpness of the cheese and the smoky flavor of the bacon.
– **Versatile:** This salad can be made ahead of time and chilled, making it a great option for busy days or when you need a make-ahead side for a party.

**Creamy Cucumber Salad with Cheese and Bacon** is the perfect combination of fresh, creamy, and savory flavors that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear. Enjoy this delicious, refreshing salad at your next gathering or as a perfect complement to any meal!