This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a bright and fresh dish that’s perfect for summer days! It combines crisp cucumbers and juicy strawberries, drizzled with a light dressing.
I love serving it at picnics. It always gets smiles and “yum” sounds! Plus, it’s super easy to make – just chop and mix! Perfect for anyone who wants a quick and tasty treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the star of this salad! If strawberries aren’t in season, you could try using raspberries or blueberries as tasty alternatives.
Cucumber: A cucumber adds crunch and freshness. If you prefer, you can use English cucumbers or even zucchini for a different twist!
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a creamy saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, quinoa or sunflower seeds provide a nice texture without the cheese.
Mint: Fresh mint elevates the flavor. If you can’t find mint, basil or even parsley would work, but keep in mind the taste will change.
Honey: For sweetness, honey is a great choice. Maple syrup can be swapped if you want a vegan option or use agave syrup instead.
How to Make the Perfect Dressing?
The dressing ties the salad together, so it’s essential to get it right. Here are some steps to follow to make the perfect honey-vinegar dressing.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, and vinegar.
- Whisk the mixture briskly until it becomes creamy and well-emulsified. This helps combine the oil and vinegar seamlessly.
- If you want a tangier taste, feel free to add a little more vinegar, and if you want more sweetness, try adding a dash more honey!
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp and fresh! Enjoy this refreshing dish on a hot day, and you’ll feel rejuvenated!
Refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a little time washing, chopping, and mixing, and if you prefer it chilled, let it sit in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving. So quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by washing the strawberries and hulling them (removing the green top). Cut them into quarters. Next, peel the cucumber, slice it lengthwise, and then cut it into half-moons. This will give nice bite-sized pieces!
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the quartered strawberries, sliced cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves. Make sure it’s a big bowl so you have plenty of space to mix!
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, and vinegar until the mixture is well combined and has a smooth consistency. This is the dressing that will add flavor to your salad!
4. Dress Your Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated evenly. Be careful not to mash the strawberries while mixing!
5. Season and Garnish:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, garnish the salad with extra mint leaves for a fresh touch right before serving!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately for the freshest flavors, or if you like, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This salad is a perfect bright and flavorful addition to any meal or just on its own as a healthy snack!
This salad is a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and refreshing flavors, making it an ideal choice for warm days!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If strawberries aren’t available, you can substitute them with raspberries, blueberries, or even diced apples. Just remember to adjust the dressing if the fruits are sweeter or tarter than strawberries!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best fresh. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the salad’s crispness!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Salad?
This salad is delicious on its own or as a side dish! It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a picnic spread. For an added twist, try serving it over a bed of mixed greens!
