This light and vibrant salad mixes crunchy cucumbers with sweet strawberries for a refreshing treat. It’s perfect for those hot summer days!
I love how quick it is to toss together. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! You can serve it at picnics or as a side dish—everyone loves this colorful delight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers for their crisp texture and thin skin, which you don’t need to peel. If unavailable, regular cucumbers work too, but you might want to peel them first to reduce bitterness.
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are key here. If they’re out of season, you can swap them for other berries, like blueberries or raspberries, which will still provide a sweet touch.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice crunch and flavor, but if you find it too strong, you can use green onions instead for a milder taste.
Fresh Mint: Mint gives a refreshing flavor that brightens the salad. If you don’t have mint on hand, parsley or basil can offer a different but pleasant flavor.
Honey or Agave Syrup: If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup works well. For a healthier alternative, you can use maple syrup or even a touch of stevia.
How Do You Get the Most Flavor from the Dressing?
Making a flavorful dressing is crucial for this salad. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with fresh lemon juice, as it brings brightness. You can also add zest for more intensity.
- Whisk the honey or agave with lemon juice until combined. This helps blend the flavors seamlessly.
- Don’t skip the salt and pepper! They enhance all the other flavors in the salad.
Let the dressing sit for a few minutes before mixing it with the salad. This allows the flavors to develop even more!
Refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Summer Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
Time Needed:
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes chopping the vegetables and mixing up the dressing, and then just let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let everything blend together nicely.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, hulled and sliced strawberries, and thinly sliced red onion. This colorful blend is not just pretty but also packed with flavor!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, honey (or agave syrup), salt, and freshly ground black pepper until everything is well combined and smooth. This dressing will add a refreshing zing to your salad.
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and strawberry mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the delightful dressing. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
4. Add Fresh Mint:
Now, sprinkle in the chopped fresh mint leaves. Toss everything lightly again to mix in the mint, which gives the salad an extra refreshing burst.
5. Optional Cheese Delight:
If you’d like, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top of the salad just before serving. This adds a creamy and tangy finish that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
6. Chill and Serve:
Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it cold. It’s the perfect refreshing salad for summer!
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or just a light summer meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While strawberries add a sweet touch, you can easily swap them for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches. Just keep the same fresh feel!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the cucumbers can become soggy over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to 4 hours in advance. Just wait to add the fresh mint and cheese until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Definitely! This salad can be a great addition to your meal prep. Just prepare it without the dressing and mint, and store in separate containers to add the dressing and mint just before serving.
