This Fresh and Zesty Mexican Cucumber Salad is a refreshing mix of cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a sprinkle of lime juice. It’s like summer in a bowl!
Pair it with tacos or enjoy it all by itself. I love how quick it comes together—just chop, toss, and you’re ready to munch! Perfect for hot days! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers are the star of this salad. English cucumbers are great as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds. If you don’t have them, any cucumbers will work. Just make sure to peel and dice them for the best texture.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add juiciness. I suggest using vine-ripened or Roma tomatoes for their flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, substitute canned tomatoes, but drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
Red Onion: The red onion adds a bit of zing. You might prefer green onions for a milder taste. If you need a sweeter flavor, go for a shallot instead, but use it sparingly.
Jalapeño: If you want to skip the spice, leave this out. For a milder kick, try using a poblano or a few dashes of hot sauce instead.
Cilantro: This herb gives a fresh flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or mint can work as substitutes, giving a different but still refreshing taste.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a delightful salty flavor. Feta cheese works as a great alternative. If you want to keep it vegan, leave it out entirely or use avocado for a creamy touch.
How Do You Properly Mix and Marinate the Salad?
Mixing and marinating this salad is where the magic happens! To get that vibrant flavor, follow these steps:
- After chopping all ingredients, combine them gently in a bowl. This keeps the cucumbers crisp.
- Make your dressing in a separate bowl to ensure it’s well mixed before adding it.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently. This prevents squishing the ingredients.
- Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving, as some juices will settle.
By following these tips, your salad will be bursting with flavor in every bite!
Fresh and Zesty Mexican Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Produce:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let all those bright flavors mix together. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients:
Start by washing and peeling the cucumbers. Then, dice them into bite-sized pieces. Do the same for the tomatoes and chop the red onion and jalapeño (if using). Finally, chop the cilantro. All these colorful veggies will make your salad vibrant and tasty!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. This tangy dressing will enhance the freshness of the vegetables.
3. Combine Everything Together:
In a large bowl, combine your chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together. Make sure each piece is coated with the dressing for maximum flavor!
4. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using avocado, gently fold it into the salad now. Reserve the cotija cheese for sprinkling on top later!
5. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and make the salad nice and refreshing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss again to mix everything up. If you like, sprinkle the cotija cheese on top. Now it’s ready to be enjoyed as a side dish or stand-alone snack. Dive into this fresh and zesty goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Yes! While this recipe calls for regular cucumbers, you can use English cucumbers for a sweeter and less-seedy option. If you prefer a crunchier texture, persian cucumbers work wonderfully too!
Is There a Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
Absolutely! Feta cheese is a great substitute, offering a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast or simply omit the cheese for a lighter salad.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the avocado separate until ready to eat to prevent browning. Before serving, give it a quick stir to freshen up the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare this salad up to a day in advance. Just wait to add the avocado until right before serving to keep it fresh and looking great. If the salad sits for too long, it might become watery, so give it a quick toss before serving!
