Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad combines fresh cucumbers with a creamy, spicy dressing inspired by the classic jalapeno popper flavors. It’s a refreshing and flavorful side dish perfect for summer or as a unique twist at your next barbecue.

Ingredients

• 2 Persian cucumbers
• ½ red onion
• 1 jalapeno
• 3-4 tbsp cream cheese (preferably with herbs)
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ⅓ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp coarse sea salt
• 3-4 tbsp sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ tsp soy sauce (regular or light, optional)
• Sesame seeds (black & white, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Thinly slice the Persian cucumbers and red onion. Remove the seeds from the jalapeno and finely dice it. Adjust the amount of jalapeno according to your heat preference.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and soy sauce if using. Mix well to create a creamy dressing.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and diced jalapeno to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat all the vegetables evenly.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese over the top and mix lightly to incorporate. Leave some cheese on top for garnish if desired.
5. Step 5: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of black and white sesame seeds for a bit of crunch and visual appeal.
6. Step 6: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Tips & Variations

• Use regular cucumber if Persian are unavailable, but peel if the skin is tough or waxed.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
• Add fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or chives for extra brightness.
• If you like it spicier, leave some jalapeno seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh as the cucumbers may release water over time. Give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing as the texture will suffer.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled. Just be aware that cucumbers may become watery if stored for too long, so it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days.

What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with a thicker Greek yogurt, labneh, or a soft ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture and mild tang.

Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 97 reviews

This Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad combines the fresh crunch of Persian cucumbers with the spicy kick of jalapenos and the creamy richness of herb-infused cream cheese and sharp cheddar. Enhanced by Greek yogurt, smoked paprika, and a hint of soy sauce, this salad is a flavorful, cooling side dish perfect for summer meals or light lunches.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 2 Persian cucumbers
• ½ red onion
• 1 jalapeno

Dairy & Creamy Ingredients

• 3–4 tbsp cream cheese (preferably with herbs)
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 3–4 tbsp sharp cheddar cheese

Spices & Seasonings

• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ⅓ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp coarse sea salt
• ¼ tsp soy sauce (regular or light, optional)

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds (black & white, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the Persian cucumbers, the red onion, and finely chop the jalapeno. Be sure to remove seeds from the jalapeno if you prefer less heat.
2. Make the creamy dressing: In a bowl, combine 3 to 4 tablespoons of herb-flavored cream cheese with 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ⅓ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of coarse sea salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine salad ingredients: Add the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and jalapeno to the dressing bowl. Toss gently to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Add cheese: Sprinkle 3 to 4 tablespoons of sharp cheddar cheese over the salad and fold it in to distribute the cheese throughout.
5. Optional flavor boost: Stir in ¼ teaspoon of soy sauce if desired, to add a subtle umami depth to the salad.
6. Garnish and serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle black and white sesame seeds on top for a crunchy finish and visual appeal. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving for a refreshing experience.

Notes

• Use Persian cucumbers for their thin skin and crisp texture; regular cucumbers can be substituted but peel them if needed.
• Adjust jalapeno quantity based on your spice tolerance; remove seeds for milder heat.
• Herb-flavored cream cheese adds extra flavor but plain cream cheese can be used with added fresh herbs.
• Chilling the salad for 10–15 minutes before serving can enhance flavors.
• For a vegan alternative, replace cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and cheddar with plant-based versions.

Keywords: Jalapeno popper cucumber salad, spicy cucumber salad, creamy cucumber salad, fresh vegetable salad, jalapeno cucumber recipe