This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is a bright, refreshing mix! Juicy pineapple and crisp cucumbers come together for a burst of flavor that’s perfect for warm days.
Oh, and if you’re like me, you might just enjoy standing by the bowl, snacking on this tasty salad while pretending it’s for a gathering! 🍍🥒
It’s super easy to whip up, just chop, toss, and enjoy! I love serving it as a side dish at summer BBQs—it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple brings sweetness and juiciness that is hard to match. If you can’t find fresh, use canned pineapple in juice, but drain it well to keep this salad crisp.
Cucumber: English cucumbers work best here since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find those, regular cucumbers will do, but consider peeling them for a softer texture.
Red Onion: This adds a nice crunch and a mild bite. For a sweeter flavor, you can swap it with green onions or shallots.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, try using mint or parsley for a different but equally tasty flavor.
Jalapeño: This is optional for heat. If you prefer less spice, consider using bell pepper instead for crunch without the kick.
How Do I Get the Perfect Balance of Flavors?
To ensure your salad has a balanced taste, measuring the dressing ingredients is crucial. The tangy lime juice should complement the sweetness of the pineapple while the cilantro adds freshness. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with lime juice and gradually add honey until it tastes balanced. If it’s too sour, add a bit more honey.
- Always taste the dressing before pouring it on the salad—this way, you can adjust salt or pepper too!
- Let it chill in the fridge after mixing. This helps the flavors blend together beautifully, making every bite delicious.
Following these tips will ensure your salad is refreshing and delicious every time! Enjoy!
Refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for a mild kick)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes. However, it’s best to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, plan for about 45 minutes in total from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the diced pineapple, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño pepper if you’re using it. This colorful mix is what makes the salad so vibrant!
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of one lime, honey (or agave syrup), salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed. This dressing adds a lovely zing to the salad!
3. Mix It Up:
Pour the dressing over the pineapple and cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
4. Chill Out!
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to blend beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the salad in individual bowls or on a platter. It makes for a refreshing side dish or light snack that’s perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy the crisp and sweet flavors of this vibrant salad!
FAQ about Refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple. Just make sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the salad. Fresh is ideal for texture, but canned will work in a pinch!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. The cucumbers may release some water over time, so you might want to pat them dry before serving again.
What If I Don’t Like Cilantro?
No problem! If cilantro isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with fresh mint or parsley for a different flavor profile. Both will add a nice freshness to the salad.
Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want more heat, you can add more jalapeño or even include a pinch of chili flakes or some diced serrano peppers. Just adjust to your spice tolerance!
Enjoy making your salad! 🍍🥒
