This refreshing salad combines crisp cucumbers and sweet strawberries for a perfect summer treat! Toss them together with a light dressing to brighten up any meal.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this salad. I love serving it at picnics or barbecues—it always disappears fast! Plus, it’s so colorful that it brightens any table! 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, any type of cucumber will work. Just peel them if you prefer a smoother texture.
Strawberries: Look for ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.
Red Onion: The red onion adds a nice crunch and sharpness. If you’re sensitive to raw onion, you could swap it out for green onions or omit it altogether.
Mint: Fresh mint adds a bright flavor, but if you don’t have it, try using fresh basil instead for a different but delightful taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Feel free to adjust the sweetness level to your taste. Agave syrup also works well here as a vegan option.
How Do I Make This Salad Extra Refreshing?
To really boost the freshness of this salad, chilling it for 15-20 minutes before serving is key! This gives the flavors a chance to meld together nicely.
- Make sure to slice the cucumbers and strawberries evenly for a consistent bite.
- Toss the salad gently; this keeps the strawberries intact and prevents mushiness.
- Add a squeeze of additional lemon juice right before serving for an extra citrus kick.
Enjoy making this salad! It’s versatile and can be adjusted to your taste, so have fun with it.
Fresh Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Estimated Time:
This delicious salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare. Plus, be sure to chill it for 15-20 minutes for the best flavor! It’s an easy and quick dish, perfect for picnics or barbecues.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Begin by washing the cucumbers well. You can peel them if you prefer; however, leaving the skin on adds a nice crunch and color. Slice the cucumbers thinly and set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare the Strawberries:
Next, wash the strawberries, remove the green tops (hull them), and slice them into smaller pieces. Add these to the bowl with the cucumbers.
3. Combine Ingredients:
If you’re using red onion, thinly slice it and add it to the bowl along with the chopped fresh mint leaves. Gently toss these ingredients together, being careful not to mash the strawberries.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined and smooth. This simple dressing really enhances the flavor of the salad!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and strawberry mixture. Toss everything gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated in that delicious dressing.
6. Chill Before Serving:
For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together nicely!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, if you like, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet strawberries and crisp cucumbers!
FAQ for Fresh Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile, so feel free to add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they complement the sweetness of the strawberries!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until about 30 minutes before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and fresh!
Is There a Vegan Option for the Dressing?
Yes, the dressing is almost vegan! Just use maple syrup instead of honey, and you’re all set. It maintains the sweet and tangy flavor profile that works wonderfully with the salad!
