Jalapeño popper-inspired cucumber salad Recipe
A fusion salad inspired by the classic jalapeño popper, combining fresh cucumbers with cream cheese, jalapeños, bacon bits, and cheddar for a spicy, crunchy delight.
Equipment
- Mandoline slicer (optional for uniform slices)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing Bowl
- Large deli container or bowl with a lid
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers seeded and finely diced
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup bacon bits or crumbled cooked bacon
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions thinly sliced
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- MSG for extra flavor optional
Instructions
- Prepare Cucumbers: Using a mandoline slicer or knife, thinly slice the cucumber into approximately 1/8-inch thick slices. Place them in a large deli container or mixing bowl.1 large English cucumber
- Make the Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and MSG (if using). Stir until smooth and well mixed.4 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 clove garlic, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, MSG for extra flavor
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cream cheese mixture to the container with the cucumber slices.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the diced jalapeños, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions to the container.2-3 jalapeño peppers, 1/4 cup bacon bits, 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 green onions
- Mix: Secure the lid on the container and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to mix everything together, ensuring the cucumber slices are well coated.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to soften slightly.
- Serve: Before serving, give the container another quick shake. Serve chilled directly from the container or transfer to a serving bowl.
Notes
- For a milder heat level, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For more spice, leave some seeds in.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- For added texture, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs on top before serving.
- Best consumed within 24 hours to maintain the cucumber’s crunch.
Nutrition
Calories: 249kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 10gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 569mgPotassium: 216mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 689IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 130mgIron: 0.5mg
Ingredient Costs: Cost of Recipe by Ingredient Measurements
Shopping Costs: Cost of Recipe with Brand New Ingredient Purchases
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