Pineapple Cucumber Salad with Lime and Chili Recipe
Introduction
This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm days. The combination of sweet pineapple, crisp cucumber, and a zesty chili-lime dressing creates a delightful balance of flavors that’s both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh cilantro or mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the diced pineapple, thinly sliced cucumber, and finely sliced red onion.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the chili powder, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), and salt until well blended.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the pineapple and vegetables, then gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Step 4: Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 5: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or mint leaves before serving, if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add toasted pepitas or chopped walnuts just before serving.
- Adjust the chili powder amount to suit your spice preference, or substitute with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
- Use agave syrup as a vegan alternative to honey.
- Try adding thinly sliced jalapeño for a spicier kick.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if stored, give it a gentle toss before serving again. Avoid adding fresh herbs until just before serving to keep them bright and fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While fresh pineapple offers the best texture and flavor, canned pineapple drained of its juice can be used in a pinch. The salad may be a bit sweeter and softer in texture.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be prepared in advance. However, to keep it crisp and fresh, store the dressing separately and toss it with the pineapple and cucumber just before serving.
PrintPineapple Cucumber Salad with Lime and Chili Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant Pineapple Cucumber Salad combining sweet pineapple, crisp cucumber, and a zesty chili-lime dressing that balances sweetness and spice perfectly. This salad is an easy-to-make, healthy dish ideal for summer or as a side to grilled meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15-20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh cilantro or mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the diced pineapple, thinly sliced cucumber, and finely sliced red onion, mixing gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the chili powder, freshly squeezed lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), and salt until well incorporated, creating a balanced sweet and tangy dressing with a hint of spice.
- Toss the salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pineapple, cucumber, and onion mixture, then toss gently to coat all pieces evenly without bruising the fruit and vegetables.
- Let flavors meld: Allow the salad to rest for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature so the flavors can mix and intensify, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or mint leaves over the salad to add a fresh herbal note and visual appeal.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Adjust chili powder quantity according to your preferred spice level.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- Optional herbs like cilantro or mint add fresh flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For an extra crunch, add toasted nuts like cashews or almonds.
Keywords: pineapple cucumber salad, fresh fruit salad, healthy salad, no cook salad, spicy lime dressing, summer salad
