Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients) is a delightful dish that brings together two fresh ingredients for a refreshing summer salad. This simple yet vibrant recipe is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light side dish at dinner. With just six ingredients, this salad showcases the sweet juiciness of strawberries alongside the crispness of cucumbers, all enhanced by a tangy lime honey vinaigrette and fragrant mint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only six ingredients, this salad can be whipped up in just 15 minutes.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of strawberries and cucumbers offers a refreshing taste, perfect for warm weather.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side salad or as an appetizer at gatherings; it pairs well with many main courses.
- Healthy Option: Low in calories but high in flavor, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal.
- Minimal Cleanup: Easy to prepare means less time spent cleaning up afterward—just one bowl and a whisk!
Tools and Preparation
To make your Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or mason jar with lid
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
- Whisk or mason jar with lid: Using a whisk helps emulsify the dressing quickly, while a mason jar makes it easy to store any leftover dressing.
Ingredients
Starwberry Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a vibrant, simple ingredient refreshing spring or summer salad. Fresh strawberries burst with sweet, juicy flavor, cucumbers give their signature refreshing crunchiness, topped with lime honey vinaigrette and mint. 2 salad ingredients + 4 for the dressing!
For the Salad
- 1 ½ cup strawberries (chilled, hulled, and quartered or sliced into 3-4 pieces)
- 2 cups sliced cucumber (chilled, thinly sliced)
For the Dressing
- 1 ½ tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (good quality)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 1/2 teaspoon fresh mint + more for garnish
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl or mason jar, mix together honey, olive oil, lime juice, and fresh mint.
- Stir or shake well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, add chilled cucumber slices and quartered strawberries.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top—be sure not to overdress; you want to lightly coat the ingredients.
Step 3: Season and Serve
- Lightly season with salt and pepper to enhance flavors—just a pinch will do!
- Top with additional fresh mint for garnish before serving immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients) as a refreshing complement to any meal!
How to Serve Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)
Cucumber Strawberry Salad is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want it as a refreshing side dish or part of a larger meal, here are some creative serving suggestions.
As a Light Appetizer
- Serve small portions in individual bowls for a charming start to any meal. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will impress your guests.
With Grilled Proteins
- Pair this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish. The freshness of the cucumber strawberry salad complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
At Summer Picnics
- Take this salad to your next picnic! It’s easy to transport and pairs excellently with sandwiches or wraps, making it a hit for outdoor gatherings.
As a Breakfast Topping
- Add this salad on top of Greek yogurt for a nutritious breakfast option. The sweetness of strawberries adds a lovely contrast to the creamy yogurt.
In Wraps or Tacos
- Use it as a filling in wraps or tacos. The crunchiness and freshness add a delightful texture and flavor profile, perfect for quick lunches.
How to Perfect Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)
To elevate your Cucumber Strawberry Salad, keep these tips in mind for an outstanding dish every time.
- Choose ripe strawberries: Select strawberries that are bright red and fragrant for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Use fresh mint: Fresh mint leaves enhance the salad’s aroma and taste; dried mint just won’t do!
- Slice cucumbers evenly: Thin, even slices ensure each bite has the right amount of crunch without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- Make dressing ahead: Prepare the lime honey vinaigrette in advance to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Chill ingredients: Keep strawberries and cucumbers chilled before mixing. This enhances their fresh taste and makes the salad more refreshing.
- Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving; add salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)
Cucumber Strawberry Salad makes an excellent accompaniment to many dishes. Here are some fantastic side options that pair wonderfully with it.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy grilled shrimp seasoned with herbs make a flavorful match.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds heartiness while keeping things light and healthy.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth, complementing the freshness of the salad.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create another refreshing option full of flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful crunch that balances well with fruity salads.
- Pasta Primavera: A light vegetable pasta dish enhances your meal without overshadowing the star salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients), avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overdressing the salad: Drizzling too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Aim for a light coat to enhance flavors without drowning the ingredients.
- Using unripe strawberries: Unripe strawberries lack sweetness and flavor. Always choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best taste.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh mint adds a delightful flavor to this salad. Omitting it can lessen the overall freshness. Always include fresh herbs for added depth.
- Neglecting to chill ingredients: Using warm cucumbers or strawberries can affect the salad’s refreshing quality. Chill your ingredients beforehand for a crisp, cool experience.
- Not seasoning properly: A sprinkle of salt and pepper can elevate flavors significantly. Don’t skip this step; just a pinch enhances the overall taste.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Ensure cucumbers and strawberries are dry before storing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)
- Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in cucumbers and strawberries.
- If absolutely necessary, freeze the dressing separately for up to 1 month.
Reheating Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)
- Oven: Not recommended as it may wilt the salad.
- Microwave: Not suitable; this salad is best served cold.
- Stovetop: Also not recommended; enjoy it fresh and chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)?
Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a simple, vibrant dish made with just six ingredients that deliver a refreshing taste perfect for spring and summer meals.
Can I customize my Cucumber Strawberry Salad?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, cheese, or other fruits based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different dressings too!
How long does Cucumber Strawberry Salad last in the fridge?
This salad stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For best quality, consume it sooner rather than later.
What should I serve with Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood dishes, or as part of a picnic spread. Its lightness complements heavier main courses beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients) is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and freshness. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your liking while maintaining its delicious essence. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its vibrant taste at your next gathering!
Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients)
Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Just 6 Ingredients) is a delightful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. This vibrant salad combines the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries with the crispness of fresh cucumbers, all topped with a zesty lime honey vinaigrette and fragrant mint. With minimal preparation and just six simple ingredients, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also a healthy addition to any meal. Whether served as a light appetizer, paired with grilled proteins, or enjoyed at picnics, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the burst of flavors while keeping things simple and nutritious!
- Total Time: 2 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup strawberries (hulled and quartered)
- 2 cups cucumber (thinly sliced)
- 1 ½ tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 ½ teaspoon fresh mint
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together honey, olive oil, lime juice, and fresh mint in a small bowl or mason jar until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled cucumber slices and quartered strawberries.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients, lightly coating without overdressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; garnish with additional mint if desired before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For best results, choose ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness. Chill all ingredients before preparation for an extra refreshing taste. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or cheese as per your preferences.
