This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a bright and fresh mix that’s perfect for warm days! With crunchy cucumbers and sweet strawberries, it’s a tasty treat that’s easy to whip up.
Every bite feels like summer! I love serving it as a light side dish or even as a refreshing snack. Plus, it takes just a few minutes to make—who doesn’t love quick and yummy meals? 🥗🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are the star of this salad! If cucumber isn’t available, you could swap in zucchini for a similar texture.
Strawberries: Sweet strawberries add a delightful taste. If they’re out of season, feel free to use raspberries or blueberries instead for a different, yet tasty twist!
Red Onion: The red onion adds a nice sharpness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use green onions or shallots instead.
Fresh Mint: Mint gives a refreshing burst. If you don’t have fresh mint, consider using basil for an interesting change!
Honey/Agave: Both sweeteners work well. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try a bit of maple syrup, or simply omit it if the fruit is sweet enough.
Cheese: Feta or goat cheese adds creaminess. You could easily skip this for a dairy-free option or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
How Do You Make Sure the Salad Stays Fresh and Crisp?
To keep your cucumber strawberry salad fresh, focus on timing and preparation. Make sure to prepare the salad just before serving or keep it chilled. Here are some tips:
- Slice cucumbers and strawberries shortly before serving to prevent them from getting mushy.
- Store the dressing separately; add it only right before serving to keep everything crisp.
- Chill the salad in the fridge, but avoid exceeding an hour to keep the cucumbers from losing their crunch.
Refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Just slice and combine the ingredients, mix your dressing, and let the flavors mingle in the fridge for a refreshing treat. Total time including chilling: around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Begin by washing all your fresh produce. In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, hulled and sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped mint leaves. This colorful mix will make your salad visually appealing!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or agave syrup) and fresh lemon juice until it’s well blended. This will provide a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
3. Combine Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and strawberry mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat the salad evenly with the dressing. You want all the flavors to come together without squishing the fruit!
4. Season the Salad:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper over the salad to taste. Don’t be shy, as a little seasoning can really enhance the flavors!
5. Add Optional Cheese:
If you’d like, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for an extra creamy, tangy contrast. It adds a nice richness to the salad!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite more delicious.
7. Enjoy Your Refreshing Salad:
Once chilled, serve your cucumber strawberry salad cold as a refreshing side dish or light snack. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the refreshing crunch!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can swap them for other berries like blueberries or raspberries. You could even try peaches or mandarin oranges for a unique twist.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! Just stick to agave syrup as your sweetener and omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative for a delicious vegan salad option.
Can I Prepare the Salad in Advance?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to ensure everything stays crisp and fresh!
