If you’re looking for a refreshing, vibrant, and slightly unexpected salad, this Strawberry Cucumber Salad is about to become your new favorite. It’s crisp, juicy, and bursting with flavors that scream summer! The sweetness of strawberries, the crunch of cucumbers, and a light, tangy dressing make this dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a barbecue or enjoying it as a light snack, trust me, you’ll love every bite!
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cucumber Salad
Versatile Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light meal on a hot day.
Budget-Friendly Uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find.
Quick and Easy Takes just minutes to put together—no cooking required!
Customizable Add feta, nuts, or herbs to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing The sweet and tangy combination is always a hit at gatherings!
Ingredients
Ingredients in Strawberry Cucumber Salad
This salad is all about fresh, vibrant flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Strawberries Juicy, sweet, and slightly tangy—the star of the dish! Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Cucumber Adds the perfect refreshing crunch. English cucumbers work best since they have fewer seeds.
Red Onion Thinly sliced for a mild, slightly sharp contrast to the sweetness.
Fresh Mint or Basil Adds a burst of freshness that takes this salad to the next level.
Feta Cheese (Optional) Crumbled for a creamy, salty contrast.
Balsamic Glaze or Honey-Lime Dressing A drizzle of balsamic reduction or a mix of honey and lime juice enhances the flavors beautifully.
Salt & Black Pepper Just a pinch to balance out the flavors.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Chop the Ingredients Slice the strawberries, cucumbers, and red onion thinly. Chop the mint or basil leaves.
Mix the Salad In a large bowl, gently toss the strawberries, cucumbers, and red onion. If using feta, sprinkle it in at this stage.
Add the Dressing Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey-lime dressing. Toss lightly to coat everything evenly.
Season & Garnish Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
Serve Immediately Enjoy fresh for the best taste and texture!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Calories per serving 120
(Note: The full nutritional breakdown, including macros, is provided in the recipe card below.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
How to Serve Strawberry Cucumber Salad
This dish pairs wonderfully with various meals and occasions. Here are a few ideas:
- As a Side Dish Perfect for grilled chicken, fish, or barbecue.
- With Bread Serve alongside crusty bread or pita for a light and satisfying meal.
- Over Greens Add it to a bed of arugula or spinach for an extra-nutritious salad.
- With Nuts Sprinkle with toasted almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
Additional Tips
- Use Ripe Strawberries The sweeter, the better! Avoid underripe ones for the best flavor.
- Slice Thinly Thin slices blend flavors better and create the perfect bite.
- Don’t Overdress Too much dressing can make the salad soggy—just a light drizzle will do!
- Chill Before Serving For an extra refreshing touch, refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Experiment with Flavors Try adding a squeeze of lemon, a handful of pomegranate seeds, or even a little drizzle of honey for a unique twist.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, add the dressing just before serving.
2. What’s the best cucumber to use?
English cucumbers are best since they’re seedless and have thinner skin.
3. Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even quinoa make great additions.
4. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 1 day.
5. Can I use a different dressing?
Yes! A light lemon vinaigrette or a poppy seed dressing also works well.
6. Is feta necessary?
No, but it adds a nice salty contrast. Goat cheese is another great option.
7. What herbs work best?
Fresh mint or basil add the best flavor. Cilantro can also work if you like a more unique twist.
8. Can I add nuts or seeds?
Yes! Toasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds add great texture.
9. Can I make it sweeter?
If you want more sweetness, drizzle with honey or add more strawberries.
10. What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
Use a mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a little honey instead!
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cucumber Salad is fresh, light, and bursting with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer picnic, as a side dish, or just because, it’s an easy and delicious way to bring a little color and crunch to your plate. Give it a try—you’re going to love it!
Print
Strawberry Cucumber Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant salad made with juicy strawberries, crisp cucumbers, and a tangy honey-lime dressing. Perfect as a light summer dish or a healthy side for any meal!
Ingredients
**For the Salad:**
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
**For the Dressing:**
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Salad:**
– In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, cucumber, and red onion.
– Add chopped mint leaves and toss gently.
2. **Make the Dressing:**
– In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Salad:**
– Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
– Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped nuts, if using.
4. **Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.**
Notes
– For extra freshness, chill the salad ingredients before assembling.
– Substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan version.
– Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
– Best served immediately but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg