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This light summer dish combines the sweetness of juicy strawberries with the crispness of cool cucumbers in a refreshing mix that's ready in minutes. Unlike traditional heavy salads with mayo, this bright combo lets the natural taste of fresh ingredients take center stage.
I stumbled upon this combo during one scorching summer when I couldn't bear turning on my oven. Wanting something that didn't need any cooking at all, I just mixed together the strawberries and cucumbers I found in my fridge.
Simple Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries: Adds natural sweetness and beautiful red color
- 2 medium cucumbers: Gives a refreshing snap and juiciness
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Brings bright tanginess that cuts through sweetness
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds gentle sweetness to the dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves: Offers cool flavor and makes it look pretty
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Pulls all flavors together in a simple dressing
Your strawberry quality makes a huge difference in this dish. Go for berries that smell fragrant, look completely red with no white tops, and feel firm but have a slight give.
Quick Preparation
- Strawberry Prep:
- Clean, remove tops, and cut strawberries into similar-sized pieces. Be gentle to keep their texture intact.
- Cucumber Work:
- Clean and slice cucumbers thinly. You can lightly salt them to pull out extra water if you want.
- Mix The Dressing:
- Stir lime juice, honey and olive oil until well mixed. Adjust to make it more sweet or tart as you like.
- Add The Herbs:
- Finely slice mint leaves to boost their flavor. Keep some aside for topping.
- Put It Together:
- Lightly toss everything with dressing right before you serve it. Add just a touch of salt and pepper.
I've made this salad so many times now, and it always amazes me how such a basic combination gets so many compliments from guests.
Tasty Additions
Make this adaptable salad even better with thoughtful extra ingredients that work with its cool flavor profile without taking over the delicate taste balance.
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Perfect Pairings
Turn this basic salad into a standout part of different meals by thinking about what foods go well with it and how to make it look great on the plate.
Different Dressings
Change up this salad's flavor by trying other dressing options that keep its refreshing nature but bring in new taste dimensions.
Keeping It Fresh
Get the most out of this crisp salad through smart prep and storage methods, though it really can't beat eating it right after you make it.
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This cucumber strawberry mix has become my go-to summer dish, the one my friends always ask me to bring to gatherings and what I make when I want to wow people without much effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare this earlier?
- It's best fresh! But you can chop the ingredients and prep the dressing a few hours beforehand. Keep them chilled separately, then mix right when you're ready.
- → Which cucumbers work best?
- Persian or English cucumbers are great since they’re thin-skinned and less seedy. Regular cucumbers are okay too—just peel the skin and remove big seeds if needed.
- → Is there a vegan swap for honey?
- Sure thing! Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a plant-based sweetener. Stick to the same amount for the right taste.
- → What pairs well with this dish?
- It’s great alongside grilled fish, shrimp, or chicken. Sandwiches or breads with soft cheese also work for a lunch or picnic combo.
- → Can I add more to this salad?
- Definitely! Crumbled feta, sliced avocado, toasted nuts, or thin slices of red onion would all be delicious additions. Customize it as you like!