If you love classic Caesar salad but want something lighter, fresher, and more refreshing, this Cucumber Caesar Salad is the perfect upgrade. Crisp cucumber slices replace romaine lettuce, creating a hydrating, low-carb salad that still delivers the creamy, tangy Caesar flavor everyone loves. It’s quick to make, incredibly versatile, and ideal for warm days when you want bold taste without a heavy meal.

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Ingredients

1 large English cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for best flavor)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, finely minced
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)

Optional Add-Ins

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Grilled chicken or shrimp
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Thinly sliced red onion
Diced avocado
Crispy bacon bits

Instructions for Cucumber Caesar Salad

1. Prepare the Cucumber

Peel the cucumber completely or leave a few green strips for texture.
Slice thinly (about ⅛ inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline.
Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a creamier salad.

2. Make the Caesar Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad

Gently toss cucumber slices with the dressing until evenly coated.
Add croutons just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and black pepper.

Pro Tips

Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a milder flavor.
Chill the cucumber slices before assembling for extra refreshment.
Always add croutons at the last minute to avoid sogginess.

Why This Recipe Works

Light yet satisfying alternative to traditional Caesar salad
Quick, no-cook recipe perfect for busy days
Refreshing texture with bold, creamy flavor
Easy to customize with protein or vegetables

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Substitutions & Variations

Healthier option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Vegan version: Substitute vegan mayo and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
Low-carb: Skip croutons or replace with roasted nuts.
Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Prepare dressing up to 3 days in advance and store refrigerated.
Slice cucumber ahead of time and keep wrapped in paper towels.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Best enjoyed fresh; reheating is not recommended.

Serving Ideas for Cucumber Caesar Salad

Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or steak
Enjoy as a light lunch with crusty bread
Pair with soups or sandwiches for a complete meal

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~180
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g

(Values are estimates and may vary.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing and cucumbers separate until serving.

What cucumber works best?

English cucumbers are ideal because they’re crisp and less watery.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely—grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu work perfectly.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, especially if you skip the croutons.

This Cucumber Caesar Salad is a refreshing, modern take on a beloved classic. Crisp, creamy, and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for quick lunches, healthy dinners, or elegant side dishes. Once you try it, this light Caesar variation is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.