Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish: pineapple cucumber salad! This refreshing salad is the perfect way to cool down on those hot days. The sweet, juicy pineapple pairs beautifully with the crisp, hydrating cucumber, creating a flavor explosion that just screams summer. I remember picnicking at the beach with this salad in tow, each bite bringing back the sound of waves and laughter. Plus, it’s a fun fusion of flavors that really brightens up any meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming of sunny days and beach vibes!
Ingredients for Pineapple Cucumber Salad
To whip up this delightful pineapple cucumber salad, you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients that come together in a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh is best for that juicy sweetness)
- 1 cup diced cucumber (I love using English cucumbers for their crunch!)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion (adds a lovely zing)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (this really elevates the whole dish)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed, if you can!)
- Salt to taste (just a pinch to enhance those flavors)
These simple yet vibrant ingredients come together to create a refreshing bowl of sunshine! You can easily adjust the quantities based on your taste or the number of guests. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors as you prep this delicious summer salad!
How to Prepare Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Getting this pineapple cucumber salad ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
First, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the diced pineapple and cucumber. I like to add the pineapple first because it really gives that sweet base to the salad. Make sure to use a spatula to mix them gently, so you don’t smash the fruit. You want those lovely, juicy cubes to shine!
Step 2: Add Flavor
Next, it’s time to amp up the flavor! Add the chopped red onion and cilantro to the bowl. The onion brings a delightful crunch and a little kick, while the cilantro adds that fresh, herby twist that elevates the whole salad. I can’t tell you how much I love that burst of flavor!
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Now, let’s dress it up! Drizzle the freshly squeezed lime juice all over the salad—2 tablespoons should do the trick. This is where the magic happens; the acidity brightens everything up! Don’t forget to sprinkle a pinch of salt to really enhance those vibrant flavors.
Step 4: Toss and Chill
Gently toss everything together until it’s well combined. You want the ingredients to mingle without losing their shape. After that, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This chilling time not only lets the flavors meld together but also makes it super refreshing when you serve it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly refreshing taste that’s perfect for hot summer days
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Healthy ingredients packed with vitamins and flavor
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a light meal
- Great for picnics, barbecues, or just a simple weeknight dinner
- Beautifully colorful, making it a feast for the eyes as well!
Tips for Success
To make your pineapple cucumber salad absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the lime juice to your taste—some like it zesty while others prefer a milder flavor. And if you can, use freshly squeezed lime juice for that extra pop! Also, make sure to serve this salad cold; it’s the key to that refreshing crunch. If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, but try to enjoy it within a day for the best taste and texture. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
Nutritional Information for Pineapple Cucumber Salad
This pineapple cucumber salad is not only delicious but also light and nutritious! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 80
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind these values are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your specific ingredients. Enjoy a guilt-free, refreshing treat that’s bursting with flavor!
FAQ About Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Got questions about this delicious pineapple cucumber salad? I’ve got you covered! One common question is, “Can I add other fruits?” Absolutely! Mango, kiwi, or even strawberries would be fantastic additions, so feel free to get creative! As for storing leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’s best enjoyed within a day for optimal freshness. If you’re wondering how to serve it, this salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Serving Suggestions
This pineapple cucumber salad is the perfect sidekick for so many dishes! It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside tacos for a vibrant twist or enjoy it as a light topping on a bed of greens. Trust me, it’s versatile!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For a similar refreshing dish, you might enjoy our creamy cucumber salad.
For more information on the health benefits of cucumbers, visit Healthline.
Print
Pineapple Cucumber Salad: 5 Refreshing Summer Delights
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing pineapple cucumber salad perfect for summer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced pineapple
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine diced pineapple and cucumber.
- Add chopped red onion and cilantro.
- Drizzle lime juice over the salad.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Toss gently to combine.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- This salad is best served cold.
- Adjust lime juice and salt according to your taste.
- Can be served as a side dish or light meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pineapple cucumber salad