Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe

The Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or even a light lunch. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The bright colors of the strawberries and cucumbers make it a standout dish that complements any meal. With its refreshing taste and easy preparation, this salad is sure to become a favorite for gatherings and everyday meals alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberries and crunchy cucumbers creates a refreshing taste that pleases everyone.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and low in calories, this salad is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Versatile Options: Customize it with optional ingredients like nuts or avocado for added texture and flavor.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make this salad an eye-catching addition to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up your Strawberry Cucumber Salad, you will need some essential tools that simplify the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large serving bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large serving bowl: Provides ample space to mix all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for both strawberries and cucumbers, enhancing the salad’s appearance.
• Cutting board: Protects your kitchen surface while making chopping easier and safer.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly before adding them to the salad.

Ingredients

A vibrant and refreshing salad combining sweet strawberries and crisp cucumbers, perfect for warm days or gatherings.

Fresh Produce

• 2 cups chopped strawberries
• 2 cups chopped cucumbers
• 5-10 leaves fresh basil, chopped
• 5-10 leaves fresh mint, chopped

Cheese

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Seasoning

• Salt + pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

• Chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds)
• Avocado
• Honey or agave syrup
• Red onion

How to Make Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Rinse the strawberries under cold water. Dry them gently with a paper towel, then slice them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumbers

Use a sharp knife to slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Aim for uniform thickness for consistent texture.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped strawberries and sliced cucumbers. Add in the crumbled feta cheese along with the chopped basil and mint.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (if using), white wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Strawberry Cucumber Salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe

Serving your Strawberry Cucumber Salad can elevate its freshness and flavor. Here are some delightful ways to present this vibrant dish that will surely impress your guests.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside barbecued meats to balance the smoky flavors.

In a Wrap

• Use as a filling in whole grain wraps for a healthy lunch option.
• Combine with hummus and turkey slices for added protein.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve on top of mixed greens for an elegant salad presentation.
• Add quinoa for extra texture and nutrition.

With Nuts and Seeds

• Top with toasted walnuts or almonds for a crunchy finish.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds for added flavor and garnish.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe

To make your Strawberry Cucumber Salad truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always select ripe strawberries and crisp cucumbers for the best taste.
• Chill before serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter salad, drizzle with honey or agave syrup.
• Add protein: Include grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding dill or parsley for different flavor profiles.
• Make it colorful: Incorporate other fruits like blueberries or mangoes for visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe

Complement your Strawberry Cucumber Salad with these delicious side dishes that enhance its refreshing nature.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy pieces of marinated chicken grilled to perfection, ideal alongside the salad’s freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty and fluffy grain dish that adds texture and complements the salad well.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide an Italian twist.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn cooked on the grill offers a delightful summer vibe.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy outside and soft inside, they add sweetness to balance the tangy flavors of your salad.
6. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on whole-grain bread pairs beautifully with strawberries and cucumbers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Cucumber Salad can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some to avoid:

• Using unripe strawberries: Always choose ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Unripe ones can make the salad taste sour.
• Not salting cucumbers: Salting cucumbers before mixing them into the salad helps draw out excess moisture, preventing your salad from becoming soggy.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overpower the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil and mint elevate this salad’s taste. Don’t skip these ingredients if you want a refreshing flavor profile.
• Chopping ingredients too early: Preparing the strawberries and cucumbers too far in advance can lead to them losing their crunch. Chop just before serving for maximum freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Enjoy within 1-2 days for best taste and texture.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.

Freezing Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of both strawberries and cucumbers.
• For best quality, make fresh when ready to enjoy.

Reheating Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe

• Oven: Not applicable; this salad is served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid using a microwave, as it will wilt the ingredients.
• Stovetop: Not necessary; serve chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits in the Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe?

You can definitely mix in other fruits like blueberries or peaches for added sweetness and variety.

How long does this Strawberry Cucumber Salad last?

The salad lasts about 1-2 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal crunchiness.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead but dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, try goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version of this refreshing salad.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cucumber Salad Recipe is a delightful combination of flavors that works wonderfully for warm days or gatherings. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it an appealing choice for any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or additional herbs for a unique twist! Try making it today!

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Strawberry Cucumber Salad

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

The Strawberry Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the crispness of cucumbers, making it perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or light lunches. This salad is visually appealing with its bright colors and packed with nutrients, offering a delightful contrast of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts for crunch or avocado for creaminess. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, this salad is sure to impress at any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups chopped strawberries
• 2 cups chopped cucumbers
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh basil and mint leaves (10-20 leaves combined)
• Olive oil and lemon juice (for dressing)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Rinse strawberries under cold water, pat dry, and slice into bite-sized pieces.
2. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds.
3. In a large bowl, combine strawberries, cucumbers, crumbled feta, basil, and mint.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking required
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg