This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is a cool and zesty treat perfect for hot days. It mixes juicy pineapple with crunchy cucumbers and a splash of lime for a tasty twist!
Every bite is refreshing, and it’s super easy to whip up. I love to serve it as a side at picnics or BBQs—it adds a cheerful touch to any meal! 🍍🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness and juiciness. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple works too—just drain it well. You might also try mangos for a different flavor.
Cucumber: A large cucumber brings crunch and hydration. You could swap it for zucchini for a similar texture or use seedless varieties to avoid bitterness.
Red Onion: This onion variety gives a mild bite and color. If you want less heat, use green onions or shallots instead. For sweetness, consider sweet onions like Vidalia.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a fresh taste. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative. It will change the flavor a bit, but still adds freshness.
Jalapeño: Using jalapeño gives a lovely spice. If you prefer no heat, skip it or use sweet bell peppers instead for color and crunch.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Tastes Great?
To enhance the flavor of your salad, let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to blend nicely. Here are a few tips:
- Balance the sweetness of pineapple with lime juice and honey.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as you like—add more lime juice for tartness or honey for sweetness.
- Gently toss the salad right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for a mild kick)
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’ll spend a little time mixing the ingredients, and then just let it sit and chill out!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the fresh pineapple chunks, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, and the finely chopped jalapeño (if you like a bit of heat). Stir everything together gently to mix.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk the lime juice, honey (or agave syrup), olive oil (if using), and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir until well blended. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or seasoning if needed.
3. Mix the Dressing with the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pineapple and cucumber mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to coat all the salad ingredients evenly with the dressing.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This makes it extra refreshing!
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss again to make sure everything is mixed well. Taste and add any extra salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled as a delightful side dish or a light snack. It’s perfect for hot weather, BBQs, or picnics. Enjoy the refreshing flavors!
FAQ for Refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple if fresh is not available! Just make sure to drain it well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. Fresh pineapple does add a nice crunch, though!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some crunchiness over time, so try to eat it within a day for the best texture!
What Can I Substitute for Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley for a milder taste or even mint for a fresh twist. Just chop it finely and mix it in like you would with cilantro.
How Can I Make This Salad More Filling?
To make the salad heartier, consider adding cooked quinoa, black beans, or diced avocado. These ingredients will add healthy fats and protein, turning it into a more substantial meal!
