Description
Looking for a refreshing and vibrant side dish that’s bursting with tropical flavor? This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy. Juicy pineapple chunks and crisp cucumber slices come together with a zesty dressing to create a light and healthy salad that’s ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a palate cleanser for spicy dishes.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
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2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into bite-sized chunks
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1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or chopped
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¼ red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped
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1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for a herbaceous kick)
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1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
For the Dressing:
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2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
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Additional mint leaves
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Lime wedges on the side
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Produce
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Peel and chop the pineapple into bite-sized chunks.
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Wash and slice the cucumber—either in thin rounds or small cubes depending on your preference.
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Thinly slice the red onion and red chili (if using).
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Chop the fresh mint and cilantro leaves.
Step 2: Mix the Salad
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In a large bowl, combine the pineapple, cucumber, red onion, mint, cilantro, and chili.
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Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly without bruising the mint.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
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In a small bowl or jar, combine lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
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Whisk or shake until fully blended and emulsified.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
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Pour the dressing over the salad.
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Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
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Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
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Garnish with extra mint leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side for added zing.
Notes
Use Ripe Pineapple – Choose one that’s fragrant and slightly soft for the best flavor.
English or Persian Cucumbers – These have fewer seeds and thinner skin, ideal for salads.
Thinly Slice the Onion – This ensures it blends well and doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
Chill Before Serving – For an extra refreshing salad, chill it for 30 minutes before serving.
Adjust the Sweetness – Add more or less honey depending on your pineapple’s natural sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: Fusion / Tropical