🥒🍍 Tropical Cucumber Pineapple Salad 🥗🌿
📝 Description:
A bright, refreshing salad that brings together the crunch of cucumber, the sweetness of pineapple, and the zesty bite of red onion and lemon. Finished with herbs and a touch of spice, it’s a tropical twist that’s light, hydrating, and full of flavor. Ideal for summer picnics, BBQs, or as a palate-cleansing side to spicy dishes.
🍽️ Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed 🍍
- 1 large cucumber, sliced (peeled optional) 🥒
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced 🧅
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro 🌿
- Juice of 1/2 lemon 🍋
- Salt & black pepper, to taste 🧂
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Prep the produce:
Wash and cut the cucumber and pineapple into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion. - Combine ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine cucumber, pineapple, and red onion. - Add flavor:
Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro, squeeze the lemon juice over the top, and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. - Toss & chill:
Toss everything together gently. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes in the fridge before serving for best flavor. - Serve:
Serve chilled as a light salad or side dish. Perfect with grilled meats or tacos!
🍴 Servings:
Makes 2–4 servings depending on whether served as a side or main salad.
🧊 Notes & Tips:
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 4 hours in advance. Add lemon juice just before serving to keep cucumbers crisp.
- No cilantro? Swap with fresh mint or basil for a different herb profile.
- Onion too strong? Soak slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness.
- Chill it well: The colder it is, the more refreshing it tastes.
- Add-ons: Try avocado chunks, a handful of arugula, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an extra tropical spin.
🧮 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate for 4 servings):
- Calories: ~60 kcal
- Carbs: ~14g
- Sugars: ~9g (natural from fruit)
- Protein: ~1g
- Fat: ~0.5g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~100mg (depending on salt used)
🌟 Health Benefits:
- Hydrating: High water content from cucumber and pineapple
- Low in calories and fat-free
- Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants
- Natural digestive aid – pineapple contains bromelain, and cucumber soothes the stomach
- Anti-inflammatory benefits from onion, lemon, and herbs
- Naturally gluten-free, vegan, and paleo-friendly
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use canned pineapple?
A: Fresh is best for texture and flavor, but canned (in juice, not syrup) works in a pinch. Drain well before using.
Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Yes, but for best texture, store ingredients separately and combine before serving.
Q: What main dishes pair well with this?
A: Great with grilled chicken, fish tacos, jerk pork, or spicy Asian dishes. Also lovely with tofu or tempeh.
Q: Can I turn this into a full meal?
A: Yes! Add cooked quinoa, shrimp, or black beans to make it heartier.
Q: Can I use lime instead of lemon?
A: Absolutely. Lime adds a slightly sweeter, tropical tang.