Pineapple Cucumber Salad : A Tropical Twist on Freshness
Looking for a vibrant, healthy salad that bursts with tropical flavor and requires almost no effort? Look no further than this Pineapple Cucumber Salad — a refreshingly crisp, sweet, and tangy dish that’s perfect for warm weather meals, BBQs, and quick lunches.
With juicy pineapple chunks, crunchy cucumber slices, and a bright lime-cilantro dressing, this salad will transport you to a sunny paradise with every bite. It's plant-based, naturally gluten-free, and comes together in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Quick & easy prep – ready in under 15 minutes
- Naturally vegan & gluten-free – no substitutes needed
- Fresh & hydrating – perfect for hot summer days
- Great for parties or meal prep – holds well in the fridge
- Customizable – turn up the heat or keep it cool
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Serving spoon
- Optional: Mandoline for slicing cucumbers thinly
Ingredients
Base Salad:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (peeled or unpeeled)
- ¼ cup red onion, very thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins (Choose Your Style):
- Sliced jalapeños – for a spicy kick
- Fresh mint – for a cooling twist
- Drizzle of honey – for added sweetness
- Pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes – for bold heat
- Zest of 1 lime – for enhanced citrusy brightness
Instructions
1️⃣ Chop & Slice:
Dice the pineapple into small bite-size pieces. Slice the cucumbers and red onion thinly. Chop your herbs of choice (cilantro or mint).
2️⃣ Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the pineapple, cucumbers, red onion, and cilantro.
3️⃣ Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the lime juice over the top. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and black pepper. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
4️⃣ Chill:
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop. This makes it extra refreshing.
5️⃣ Final Touch:
Just before serving, give the salad a light toss again. Taste and adjust seasoning. If using, sprinkle optional chili flakes or drizzle honey on top.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
Serve chilled as a side dish, salad course, or a light and fruity lunch!
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose ripe pineapple for optimal sweetness and flavor. If your pineapple is under-ripe, add a small drizzle of honey.
- Use English cucumbers or seedless varieties to avoid excess moisture.
- To avoid sogginess, lightly salt cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
- Want a citrus boost? Zest your lime before juicing and mix in for a flavor upgrade.
- Spice it up with jalapeños, serranos, or crushed red pepper if you like it hot.
Serving Suggestions
- With grilled meats – pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken, shrimp skewers, or pork chops
- As a topping – great over tacos, burrito bowls, or fish fillets
- In a wrap – roll into a tortilla with black beans and hummus for a light lunch
- Picnic-perfect – travels well and tastes even better after chilling
Pineapple Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine pineapple, cucumbers, red onion, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Toss again and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Serve chilled. Garnish with lime zest, mint, or extra chili flakes if desired.
Simple, sunny, and full of natural goodness, Pineapple Cucumber Salad is the definition of fresh flavor fusion. Whether you're throwing a party, hosting a cookout, or just need something light and bright, this easy salad brings the perfect tropical touch to any table.