This refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad is a vibrant combination of sweet, tangy, and crisp flavors that create a perfect balance of textures. Ideal as a light appetizer or a side dish, this salad features the tropical sweetness of pineapple paired with the cool, hydrating crunch of cucumber.
It’s a versatile dish that works wonderfully for summer picnics, BBQs, or as a healthy snack. The addition of fresh herbs and a zesty dressing takes this salad to a new level, making it not only a nutritious option but also a flavorful one. With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation, this recipe is quick to whip up and bound to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or chili powder for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Start by preparing the ingredients: peel and thinly slice the cucumber, dice the pineapple into small chunks, and thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumber, pineapple, and red onion.
- Chop the cilantro and mint leaves finely, then add them to the bowl with the other ingredients.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey (or agave syrup), salt, and pepper. This will be your dressing for the salad.
- Pour the dressing over the pineapple, cucumber, and onion mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Gently toss the ingredients together, being careful not to break up the pineapple too much.
- If you like a little heat, sprinkle chili flakes or chili powder over the salad and mix well.
- Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, give the salad one last toss before serving. Garnish with extra fresh mint or cilantro if desired for a burst of color.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, sweet, and savory flavors!
This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is a fantastic way to cool off during the warmer months. It offers a satisfying mix of sweet and savory tastes, while being light and healthy. The crunch of cucumber complements the juicy pineapple, while the fresh herbs add layers of flavor. You can customize the recipe by adding other fruits or spices if you wish, making it your own!