Refreshing Cucumber Cheese Bowl

This refreshing Cucumber Snack Bowl has become my go-to solution for hot summer afternoons when I need something light yet satisfying. The crisp cucumber paired with protein and a zesty dressing creates the perfect balance of flavors without weighing you down.

I first created this recipe during a particularly brutal heatwave when turning on the oven was absolutely out of the question. My family was instantly hooked on the cool, refreshing combination.

Ingredients

• Fresh cucumbers: the star of the show providing hydration and crunch choose firm ones with no soft spots
• Shredded cheese: adds creaminess and protein cheddar works beautifully but any variety will do
• Cooked diced chicken: provides satisfying protein use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra flavor
• Black pepper: enhances all the flavors with subtle heat
• Old Bay seasoning: brings a distinctive savory note with hints of paprika and celery salt
• Salad Supreme seasoning: a secret ingredient that adds color and umami depth
• Avocado lime ranch dressing: ties everything together with creamy tanginess look for one with real avocado oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cucumber Preparation:

Slice your cucumbers into bite-sized pieces ensuring they're uniform for even dressing coverage. I prefer half-moon shapes about 1/4 inch thick which provide the perfect cucumber to topping ratio. Place them in a bowl large enough to allow for gentle mixing.

Add Proteins and Cheese:

Sprinkle the shredded cheese and diced chicken evenly over the cucumbers. The warmth of freshly cooked chicken will slightly melt the cheese creating delicious little pockets of creaminess throughout the dish.

Season Thoughtfully:

Add your seasonings starting with a light touch. The beauty of black pepper Old Bay and Salad Supreme is their ability to enhance without overwhelming. I usually start with about 1/4 teaspoon of each and adjust to taste.

Dress and Combine:

Drizzle the avocado lime ranch dressing over everything making sure to get some on all ingredients. Two tablespoons is usually perfect for two servings but feel free to adjust if you prefer more or less dressing.

Gentle Mixing:

Use a large spoon to carefully fold everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated with dressing and the toppings are well distributed. Avoid overmixing which can cause the cucumbers to release too much water.

Save

The Salad Supreme seasoning is actually my grandmother's secret ingredient she used on practically everything. When I make this cucumber bowl I always think of summer afternoons in her kitchen where she taught me that simple food prepared with care is often the most delicious.

Make It Ahead

This cucumber bowl can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance if you keep the components separate. Slice the cucumbers and store them in a container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Keep your protein cheese and dressing separate then combine everything just before eating. This method preserves the crispness of the cucumbers and prevents the dish from becoming watery.

Easy Variations

The basic formula for this cucumber bowl is endlessly adaptable to your preferences or what you have on hand. Try Greek inspired with feta olives and oregano. Go Italian with mozzarella basil and balsamic glaze. Make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for chickpeas or edamame. The neutral base of cucumber works with almost any flavor profile you can imagine making this a perfect clean out the fridge recipe.

Serving Suggestions

While perfectly satisfying on its own this cucumber bowl pairs beautifully with additional sides for a more substantial meal. Serve alongside whole grain crackers crusty bread or a simple soup for lunch. For entertaining I often create a cucumber bowl bar with the base ingredients and various toppings allowing guests to customize their own bowls. This has been a huge hit at summer gatherings especially when the temperature climbs.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does this cucumber bowl stay fresh?

The cucumber bowl is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. However, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumbers may release water over time, which can dilute the dressing.

→ Can I make this cucumber bowl vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra cheese, or substitute with plant-based protein alternatives like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian version.

→ What can I use instead of avocado lime ranch dressing?

You can substitute with Greek yogurt mixed with lime juice, olive oil and herbs, a simple vinaigrette, tzatziki, or any creamy dressing of your choice. Each alternative will create a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

→ Are there other vegetables I can add to this bowl?

Yes! Consider adding cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, sliced radishes, red onion, or avocado chunks. These additions will increase the nutritional value and add different textures and flavors to your bowl.

→ How can I make this cucumber bowl more filling?

To make this more substantial, increase the protein portion by adding more chicken or including hard-boiled eggs. You could also incorporate quinoa, farro, or brown rice as a base, or add nuts and seeds for healthy fats and extra crunch.

→ What seasonings can I use instead of Old Bay or Salad Supreme?

Italian seasoning, Everything Bagel seasoning, lemon pepper, za'atar, or a simple mix of dried herbs like dill and parsley work well. You can also try paprika, cumin, or garlic powder for different flavor profiles.