Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for any season. This salad not only showcases the vibrant colors of fresh produce but also combines the crispness of cucumbers with the sweetness of strawberries, elevating your meal to a new level. With just a handful of ingredients, this simple yet delightful recipe is quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or something to bring to a picnic, Cucumber Strawberry Salad is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Quick Cabbage Salad Recipe Cucumber and Beetroot Salad The combination of textures and tastes makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, offering a healthy boost to your diet without sacrificing flavor. So gather your fresh ingredients and get ready to whip up this delicious salad that will impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Strawberry Salad

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks For more inspiration, check out this Preserved Lemons Recipe recipe.
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Cucumber Strawberry Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cucumbers: Use fresh, firm cucumbers as they provide the perfect crunch and hydration in the salad.
• Strawberries: Look for ripe strawberries that are bright red; they’ll add natural sweetness and color.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a mild sharpness that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the fruit.
• Fresh Mint: Chopped mint leaves offer a refreshing herbal note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar provides acidity that ties all the flavors together seamlessly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

this recipe

How to Make Cucumber Strawberry Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing the cucumbers and strawberries thoroughly under cold water. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and hull the strawberries before cutting them into halves or quarters based on their size.

Step 2: Combine Vegetables and Fruits

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, strawberries, and thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss them together to ensure an even distribution of colors.

Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs

Chop fresh mint leaves finely and add them into the bowl with the cucumber-strawberry mixture. The mint will enhance freshness while providing an aromatic element.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad mixture. Start with about two tablespoons; you can adjust based on taste preference. Toss everything gently until all ingredients are well coated in dressing.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

For best results, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates or a serving bowl and enjoy as a light side or main dish packed with flavor!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Select Fresh Produce: Always choose ripe fruits and fresh vegetables for optimal flavor in your salad.
• Mince Mint Properly: To release essential oils from mint leaves, chop them finely instead of leaving them whole.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare all components ahead of time but only dress right before serving to maintain crispness.

How to Serve Cucumber Strawberry Salad

This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Grilled Chicken: The lightness of the salad complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken, creating a balanced meal.
• Quinoa: A nutritious base that adds texture and absorbs the refreshing dressing from the salad.
• Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can enhance the flavors of the salad, making it an ideal addition to any cheese board.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can chop cucumbers and strawberries up to one day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Prepare the dressing ahead and keep it refrigerated for up to three days.
• Storing: Leftover Cucumber Strawberry Salad should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Consume within two days for optimal freshness. The salad may lose its crispness over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating. If you prefer a warm dish, consider serving it alongside heated proteins instead.

Suggestions for Cucumber Strawberry Salad:

Choose Fresh Ingredients

When preparing a Cucumber Strawberry Salad, always opt for fresh ingredients. Fresh cucumbers and ripe strawberries not only enhance the flavor but also ensure a crisp texture. Overripe or mushy strawberries can ruin the salad’s overall appeal. When shopping, look for bright red strawberries without white or green spots. For cucumbers, choose those that are firm and free from blemishes. Storing your fruits and vegetables properly—keeping them cool and dry—can help maintain their freshness until you are ready to prepare your salad. For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad recipe.

Balance Flavors

Achieving a balance of flavors is crucial in any salad, especially in a Cucumber Strawberry Salad. The sweetness of strawberries should complement the refreshing crunch of cucumbers without overpowering each other. You can introduce elements like lemon juice or balsamic vinegar to add acidity, enhancing the overall taste profile. Spinach Salad with Brown Butter Dressing Additionally, consider adding herbs such as mint or basil to elevate the flavors further. Avoid using too much dressing; this can drown out the natural tastes of your main ingredients.

Cut Ingredients Properly

The way you cut your ingredients can significantly impact the presentation and texture of your Cucumber Strawberry Salad. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even mixing and a more appealing look. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, while strawberries can be quartered or sliced depending on their size. This uniformity not only makes for an attractive dish but also ensures that every bite delivers a balanced mix of flavors. Avoid overcrowding your bowl; allow enough space for the ingredients to mingle freely.

Serve at Optimal Temperature

Serving a Cucumber Strawberry Salad at the right temperature enhances its flavor and texture. Ideally, serve it chilled, which brings out the refreshing qualities of both cucumbers and strawberries. If you prepare it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator until serving but avoid letting it sit for too long after being dressed to prevent sogginess. A cold salad provides a crisp bite that is particularly enjoyable during warm weather.

FAQs:

What is a Cucumber Strawberry Salad?

A Cucumber Strawberry Salad combines fresh cucumbers and juicy strawberries with dressing and optional herbs or nuts for added flavor and texture. This salad is often served chilled, making it perfect for summer picnics or barbecues. The combination of sweet and savory elements creates a refreshing dish that pairs well with various main courses, adding color and nutrition to your meal.

How do I store leftover Cucumber Strawberry Salad?

To store leftover Cucumber Strawberry Salad properly, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat again. This helps maintain the salad’s crispness and prevents sogginess from excess moisture. Consume leftovers within 1-2 days for optimal freshness; always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Can I customize my Cucumber Strawberry Salad?

Absolutely! Customizing your Cucumber Strawberry Salad allows you to personalize it according to your taste preferences. Consider adding feta cheese or goat cheese for creaminess or nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch. You can also include other fruits such as blueberries or mangoes for added sweetness. Experimenting with different dressings will enhance flavors; try honey vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressings as alternatives.

Is Cucumber Strawberry Salad healthy?

Yes, a Cucumber Strawberry Salad is considered healthy due to its rich nutrient content from fresh produce. Cucumbers are low in calories yet high in water content, while strawberries provide essential vitamins like Vitamin C and antioxidants. This salad is an excellent option if you’re looking to enjoy a light meal while incorporating fruits and vegetables into your diet, making it ideal for weight management and overall health.

Conclusion for Cucumber Strawberry Salad:

In summary, creating a delightful Cucumber Strawberry Salad involves selecting fresh ingredients, balancing flavors effectively, cutting them uniformly, and serving at an optimal temperature. By avoiding common mistakes like overdressing or using stale produce, you can enhance both taste and presentation significantly. Remember that customization options exist, allowing you to tailor the salad to suit personal preferences while keeping it nutritious. Enjoy this vibrant dish as part of a meal or as a refreshing snack on warm days!

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Cucumber Strawberry Salad

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that beautifully blends the crispness of cucumbers with the sweetness of ripe strawberries. Perfect for warm weather, this salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for light lunches, side dishes, or picnics. With its vibrant ingredients and delightful flavors, it’s sure to impress your family and guests while providing a healthy boost to your meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cucumbers (sliced)
• 1 cup strawberries (halved)
• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh mint (chopped)
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

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Instructions

1. Wash cucumbers and strawberries thoroughly. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds and hull strawberries, cutting them in halves or quarters.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, strawberries, and red onion. Gently toss to mix.
3. Add chopped mint leaves and stir to incorporate.
4. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.
5. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled as a refreshing side or light main dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - Choose firm cucumbers and ripe strawberries for the best flavor. - For added texture, consider mixing in nuts or crumbled cheese like feta. - Prepare ingredients ahead of time but dress just before serving to maintain crispness.