This cooling Pineapple Cucumber Salad is perfect for warm days! It’s bright and refreshing with juicy pineapple, crisp cucumbers, and a hint of lime.
Making this salad is a breeze! I usually toss it together in just minutes, and it always impresses my friends at summer picnics. Who doesn’t love a little crunch and sweetness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple brings sweetness and juiciness. If fresh isn’t available, use canned pineapple in juice, but drain it well to avoid sogginess. My personal favorite is using small, ripe pineapples for the best flavor.
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds crunch and hydration. If you want something crunchier, try using English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. I often leave the skin on for extra nutrients.
Red Onion: It gives a nice mild sharpness. If you prefer something sweeter, substitute it with green onions or even sweet onions. I love using shallots for a milder flavor if I have them on hand.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides a vibrant taste. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute. Sometimes, I’ll use mint for a refreshing twist!
Jalapeño: If you like it spicy, leave the seeds in! For a milder spice, use a bit of bell pepper instead. I usually adjust the spice level depending on my guests’ preferences.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in This Salad?
The key to a flavorful salad lies in how you combine and chill your ingredients. Make sure to toss everything well so the dressing coats each piece. Letting the salad chill for at least 15 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Chop all the ingredients into uniform sizes for even mixing.
- Mix lime juice, honey, and salt until fully blended before adding to the veggies.
- Give the salad a gentle toss rather than a vigorous mix to keep the pineapple and cucumber intact.
By allowing it to sit, it transforms into a refreshing dish bursting with flavor!
Refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 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, seeds removed and finely chopped (optional, for a mild kick)
Dressing Ingredients:
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad is quick to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, plus an additional 15 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the fresh pineapple into bite-sized cubes, peel and dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the cilantro. If you’re using jalapeño, remove the seeds and finely chop it as well. Place everything in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, add the juice of one lime, the honey (or agave), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until everything is well combined. This dressing will add a lovely tangy sweetness to your salad!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pineapple mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until the pineapple and vegetables are well coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the ingredients; you want to keep that fresh crunch!
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle, making each bite that much more delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir and taste for seasoning. Add more salt if needed. Serve the salad cold as a refreshing side dish or a light snack. Enjoy the tasty combination of flavors!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple if fresh isn’t available! Just make sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the salad. Fresh pineapple will give a brighter flavor, but canned can work in a pinch.
What if I Don’t Like Cilantro?
No problem! If cilantro isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or even fresh mint for a different twist. Just chop it finely and mix it in as you would with cilantro.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving. However, if making it much earlier, I recommend waiting to add the dressing until just before serving to keep the cucumber crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but keep an eye on the cucumbers as they may soften. Give it a stir before serving!
