The first bite of summer often comes as a bright crunch — sweet strawberries mingling with cool cucumbers, and that’s the magic of this Cucumber Strawberry Salad. It’s hard to believe that with just ten minutes of prep, you can whip up such a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and freshness. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but a playful yet healthy addition to your table, making it perfect for those sunny days when you crave something light and invigorating. Packed with vitamins and low in calories, it’s an ideal quick-prep option for anyone looking to steer clear of fast food. So grab your freshest ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress at picnics or as a side for dinner! Ready to explore how easy and satisfying homemade can be?
Why is this salad a summer essential?
Vibrant colors: The vivid combination of red and green not only looks beautiful but also entices your taste buds!
Quick prep time: In just 10 minutes, you can have this amazing salad ready to go, making it a lifesaver for busy days.
Healthy and low-calorie: Packed with vitamins, this salad is a guilt-free way to satisfy your cravings.
Endless versatility: Swap strawberries for blueberries or experiment with nuts and cheese to personalize your dish. Discover more refreshing ideas like our Feta Avocado Salad or Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for a delightful mix of flavors!
Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, this salad is sure to impress family and friends alike with its deliciousness!
This Cucumber Strawberry Salad Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightfully refreshing salad!
For the Salad
- Cucumber – Adds crunch and freshness; use English cucumbers for fewer seeds.
- Strawberries – Provide natural sweetness; substitute with blueberries or peaches if desired.
- Fresh Mint – Introduces a refreshing aroma; basil or cilantro can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
For the Dressing
- Olive Oil – Acts as a light dressing base; can use avocado oil as an alternative.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Adds tanginess; apple cider vinegar can be a milder substitute.
- Honey – Enhances sweetness; maple syrup serves as a vegan alternative.
- Salt – Balances flavors; use sea salt or kosher salt for the best taste.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; freshly ground is preferred for better flavor.
This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a vibrant way to enjoy fresh ingredients while keeping things light and healthy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for This Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
Start by washing the cucumber and strawberries thoroughly under cool, running water. Using a sharp knife, slice the cucumber into 1/8-inch thick rounds for that perfect crunch. Next, hull the strawberries and slice them into 1/4-inch thick pieces, ensuring that their vibrant red color shines through in your fresh salad.
Step 2: Make Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth and emulsified, creating a light dressing that will elevate this Cucumber Strawberry Salad.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cucumber slices and strawberry pieces. Once well mixed, pour the prepared dressing over the salad. Using a large spoon, carefully toss the ingredients together to ensure each piece is evenly coated, enhancing the flavors of both the cucumbers and strawberries.
Step 4: Add Mint
Wash and chiffonade a handful of fresh mint leaves, which will add a refreshing aroma to the salad. Gently fold the mint into the salad mixture, making sure it’s well distributed throughout. This step is essential as it perfectly complements the sweet strawberries and crunchy cucumbers in this Cucumber Strawberry Salad.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, take a moment to taste the salad and see if the flavors need further enhancement. Add a bit more salt, pepper, or honey as per your preference to achieve the perfect balance of flavors, ensuring that the salad shines and feels refreshing.
Step 6: Let Sit
Allow the assembled salad to rest for about 5-10 minutes at room temperature. This resting period is critical as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious taste in this delightful Cucumber Strawberry Salad, making it truly irresistible when served fresh!
Make Ahead Options
This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its fresh flavors while saving time during busy weeks! You can slice the cucumbers and strawberries up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess. The dressing can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply give it a good shake before mixing it with the salad. To enjoy the best quality, combine the components just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness and vibrant taste. This way, you can delight your family with a delicious, refreshing salad without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for This Cucumber Strawberry Salad
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers and strawberries.
- Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, allow the salad to sit out for no more than 2 hours to ensure freshness and safety.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold; avoid reheating as it may alter the texture and flavor of the fresh ingredients.
- Freezer: Avoid freezing this Cucumber Strawberry Salad, as it can make the cucumbers mushy and compromise the salad’s refreshing taste.
Expert Tips for This Cucumber Strawberry Salad
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumber and strawberries make all the difference in taste. Look for vibrant, unblemished produce to elevate this Cucumber Strawberry Salad.
- Don’t Overdressing: A light hand is key! Too much dressing can drown out the fresh flavors; drizzle a little, then adjust if necessary before serving.
- Mind the Mint: Adding mint should be a gentle fold, not a heavy mix. This preserves the fresh aroma and prevents bruising the leaves, enhancing your salad’s experience.
- Taste Before Serving: It’s essential to taste before you serve. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to perfect the balance, ensuring each bite is a delight.
- Chill for Flavor: Letting the salad sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to marry. This step can transform your dish from good to great!
What to Serve with This Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the fresh, vibrant flavors of this Cucumber Strawberry Salad.
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Grilled Chicken: The smoky, savory profile of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the salad’s sweet strawberries, creating a balanced plate. A light lemon marinade works wonders!
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Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy side dish adds a nutty flavor and hearty texture that harmonizes well with the crispness of the salad.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, freshly baked baguette offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender strawberries and cucumbers, making each bite a joy.
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Feta Cheese: Sprinkle some feta on top to introduce a tangy creaminess that complements the sweetness of the strawberries brilliantly, adding depth to your meal.
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Pasta Primavera: A light vegetable pasta complements the fresh vibe of the salad. The seasonal veggies add a colorful and wholesome twist.
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Lemonade: Serve a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade on the side. The citrusy brightness enhances the salad’s flavors while keeping the meal light.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet finish, treat yourself with some chocolate-dipped strawberries. They tie in beautifully with the salad’s main ingredient, creating a delightful dessert experience!
This Cucumber Strawberry Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Cucumber Strawberry Salad and tailor it to your preferences!
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Nuts: Add walnuts or almonds for an added crunch. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the sweet strawberries.
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Cheese: Introduce feta or goat cheese for a savory twist. This adds a creamy element that complements the salad beautifully.
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Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it heartier. This satisfying addition will turn your salad into a complete meal!
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Fruit Swaps: Replace strawberries with blueberries or peaches for a unique flavor profile. Each fruit brings its own delightful sweetness, so feel free to mix up the fruit flavors!
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Dressing Alternatives: Try a creamy yogurt dressing instead of the balsamic for a refreshing change. It adds a tangy richness that enhances the overall experience.
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Heat Level: Spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Just a touch will elevate the flavor profile without overpowering the salad.
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Herb Variations: Swap fresh mint for basil or cilantro for a different aromatic experience. Each herb brings a unique fragrance that can transform the dish.
For more delicious ideas, explore options like our Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake or Cucumber Smoked Salmon for a delightful combination of flavors!
Cucumber Strawberry Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cucumbers and strawberries?
Absolutely! For cucumbers, look for those that are firm, smooth, and without dark spots. English cucumbers are a fantastic choice since they’re less seedy. When selecting strawberries, choose ones that are bright red and fragrant with no soft spots — they should feel slightly firm to the touch.
How should I store leftovers from this Cucumber Strawberry Salad?
Very! You can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s key to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crunch of the cucumbers and the freshness of the strawberries.
Can I freeze this Cucumber Strawberry Salad?
I recommend avoiding freezing this salad, as it can change the texture of the cucumbers, making them mushy when thawed. If you have leftover ingredients, consider freezing them separately and using them in smoothies or other dishes instead.
What if my salad becomes soggy?
Don’t worry! If your salad gets a bit soggy, you can try draining off excess dressing. To revive it, you can add fresh ingredients like cucumber and strawberries to rejuvenate the texture. Next time, remember to add the dressing just before serving, allowing it to stay fresh and crunchy!
Is this salad suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, it’s a versatile option! Always double-check for potential allergies, especially with the dressing ingredients. If you’re avoiding honey, you can easily substitute with agave nectar or maple syrup for a vegan option. Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on dietary restrictions!
This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is Your New Summer Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the cucumber and strawberries thoroughly. Slice the cucumber into 1/8-inch thick rounds and hull the strawberries, slicing them into 1/4-inch pieces.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and emulsified.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together cucumber slices and strawberry pieces. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Chiffonade the mint leaves and gently fold into the salad mixture.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey as needed.
- Allow the salad to rest for 5-10 minutes at room temperature before serving.
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