Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad

If you love the creamy, spicy goodness of jalapeño poppers but want something lighter and more refreshing, this Jalapeño Popper Cucumber Salad is your new go-to recipe. Crisp cucumbers and spicy jalapeños are tossed with a tangy, creamy dressing, then topped with crunchy bits of seasoned breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of cheddar for that classic popper flavor—no frying needed!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh and Spicy – Cool cucumbers and bold jalapeños are a perfect pairing.
No Cooking Required – Just slice, mix, and serve.
Lighter Take on a Favorite – All the flavor of jalapeño poppers without the heaviness.
Perfect for Potlucks – A unique side dish that stands out.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for prepping a few hours ahead of time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
2–3 jalapeños, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup green onions, sliced

For the Creamy Dressing:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Crunchy Topping:
½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed baked crackers
1 tsp olive oil
½ tsp smoked paprika

Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl for dressing
Whisk or fork
Sharp knife and cutting board
Non-stick skillet (for topping, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

1. Thinly slice cucumbers, jalapeños, and red onion.
2. Place in a large bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together cream cheese, yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

1. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers, jalapeños, and red onion.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese and green onions.
3. Gently toss until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Topping

1. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers and paprika.
3. Stir for 2–3 minutes until golden and toasted.
4. Let cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Just before serving, sprinkle the crunchy topping over the salad.
2. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Tips for Success
Use English Cucumbers – They’re seedless and less watery, perfect for salads.
Adjust Spice Level – Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat or add more for extra kick.
Chill First – Let the salad sit in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
Top Just Before Serving – Keeps the crunchy topping from getting soggy.

Serving Suggestions
Grilled Meats – Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or burgers.
Picnic Side – A standout option at BBQs or outdoor gatherings.
Lettuce Wrap Filler – Use as a filling in crunchy lettuce cups for a fun twist.
Game Day Snack – Serve as a side with your favorite party appetizers.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Keep salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Separate Topping: Store crunchy topping in a zip-top bag or small container at room temperature.

Reheating:
Not needed – this dish is served cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
   Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese, yogurt, and shredded cheese alternatives.
2. What’s a good substitute for breadcrumbs?
   Try crushed cornflakes, baked tortilla chips, or roasted nuts for crunch.
3. Is this salad keto-friendly?
   Yes, just omit the breadcrumbs and use a low-carb alternative for the dressing.
4. Can I prep this salad ahead?
   Yes, just store the salad and topping separately and combine before serving.

Final Thoughts
This Jalapeño Popper Cucumber Salad brings together the bold flavors of a beloved appetizer in a cool, crunchy salad that’s perfect for warm weather and casual gatherings. Creamy, spicy, and irresistibly fresh, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves to add a little kick to their salads.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 330mg

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