Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad Recipe
This Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and flavorful side dish combining fresh Persian cucumbers, spicy jalapenos, sharp cheddar, and a tangy, herby cream cheese dressing. Inspired by the classic jalapeno popper flavors in a refreshing salad format, it’s perfect for a quick snack, light lunch, or picnic accompaniment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 Persian cucumbers
- ½ red onion
- 1 jalapeno
Dressing and Toppings
- 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
- Slice the cucumbers: Use a mandolin or sharp knife to slice the cucumbers into ½ cm (¼ inch) thick rounds without peeling them. This ensures uniform slices for even flavor distribution and texture.
- Combine cucumbers and aromatics: Place the sliced cucumbers into a mixing bowl or a jar. Dice the red onion and jalapeno, then add them on top of the cucumbers to layer in the heat and pungency.
- Prepare the creamy dressing: Add cream cheese, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, coarse sea salt, and sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl or jar. For an optional umami boost, add a splash of soy sauce.
- Mix thoroughly: Toss everything together in the bowl until evenly coated with the creamy dressing, or if using a jar, seal the lid and shake vigorously so the flavors meld perfectly.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the salad to a serving plate and sprinkle generously with both black and white sesame seeds for added texture and a nutty finish. Serve chilled and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For best flavor, use cream cheese with herbs or add your own fresh herbs like dill or chives.
- If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeno before dicing.
- Greek yogurt can be substituted with sour cream for a richer taste.
- This salad is best consumed fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- For extra crunch, lightly toast the sesame seeds before garnishing.
Keywords: jalapeno popper cucumber salad, creamy cucumber salad, jalapeno salad, no-cook salad, summer salad, vegetarian salad
