Sweet & Tangy Tropical Pineapple Cucumber Salad 🥗🍍🥒✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a light, refreshing, and delicious summer side dish, look no further than this pineapple cucumber salad. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe pineapple with the crispness of fresh cucumbers, this sweet and tangy salad offers a perfect balance of flavors. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and a hit for picnics, barbecues, or even weeknight dinners. Dive in to learn how to make this vibrant summer side dish that everyone will love!
2. Ingredients for the pineapple cucumber salad
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cubed
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped mint leaves for garnish
3. Step-by-step instructions to make the best pineapple cucumber salad
Preparation of the pineapple and cucumbers
Start by peeling and cubing the pineapple into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cucumbers thinly; you can use a mandoline for uniform slices to enhance presentation.
Making the tangy dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing will add the perfect sweet and tangy flavor profile to the salad.
Assembling the salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, cucumber slices, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Scatter chopped cilantro and additional mint leaves on top for a fresh finish.
Serving the tropical pineapple cucumber salad
Serve immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. This zesty citrus shrimp salad pairs well with seafood, and you can also check out sweet summer chicken recipes to complement your meal.
4. Storage tips for this pineapple cucumber salad
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the cucumber may release additional water, so give it a quick stir before serving again. Avoid storing with delicate toppings like mint for longer periods to maintain freshness.
5. Serving suggestions for this sweet and tangy salad
This summer side dish is perfect on its own or served alongside grilled meats, fish, or even as part of a vibrant vegan platter. Consider adding a handful of toasted coconut flakes for extra texture or a splash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick. For a complete meal, pair with roasted peach BBQ chicken or healthy veggie muffins.
6. Frequently asked questions about pineapple cucumber salad
Can I substitute the honey in the dressing?
Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a touch of coconut sugar as a natural sweetener that complements the tropical flavors.
Is this salad suitable for vegans or vegetarians?
Absolutely! This sweet and tangy salad is plant-based, made from fresh fruits and vegetables with a simple natural dressing.
What other ingredients can I add to customize the salad?
Feel free to include chopped mango, shredded coconut, toasted nuts, or even some crumbled feta cheese for added richness and texture.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes about 15-20 minutes, making it an ideal quick summer side dish for last-minute gatherings.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Investing in these tools can make your prep work smoother and more enjoyable, ensuring you get perfectly sliced fruits and a well-blended dressing every time!
8. Conclusion
This pineapple cucumber salad is a delightful summer side dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors with its sweet and tangy profile. Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and healthy, it’s an ideal addition to any warm-weather gathering. Plus, its flexibility means you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and add a splash of freshness to your meal!
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Sweet & Tangy Tropical Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Discover the refreshing and vibrant Sweet & Tangy Tropical Pineapple Cucumber Salad, a perfect summer side dish that combines juicy pineapple, crisp cucumbers, and zesty lime dressing for a delightful flavor experience. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or weeknight dinners, this healthy and easy-to-make salad will become your go-to summer recipe.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cubed
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Start by peeling and cubing the pineapple into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cucumbers thinly; you can use a mandoline for uniform slices to enhance presentation.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing will add the perfect sweet and tangy flavor profile to the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, cucumber slices, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Scatter chopped cilantro and additional mint leaves on top for a fresh finish.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. This salad pairs well with seafood, and you can also check out citrus shrimp or summer chicken recipes to complement your meal.
Notes
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the cucumber may release additional water, so give it a quick stir before serving again. Avoid storing with delicate toppings like mint for longer periods to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 120 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg