Name: Cucumber Strawberry Salad: A Refreshing Twist for Summer
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Strawberries (Sliced, can substitute with blueberries); 1 large Cucumber (Seedless variety); 1/2 small Red Onion (Thinly sliced); 1/4 cup Fresh Mint Leaves (Chopped); 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (Chopped); 1/2 cup Feta Cheese (Crumbled, can substitute with goat cheese); 1/3 cup Walnuts (Chopped, can substitute with sunflower or pumpkin seeds); 1 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze (Can mix balsamic vinegar with honey); 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Can use any light oil); to taste Salt (Essential for flavor); to taste Pepper (Essential for flavor)

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As I sliced into a crisp cucumber and caught the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries, it dawned on me: summer is truly here, and so are the vibrant flavors of a Cucumber Strawberry Salad. This delightful dish is not just about taste; it’s a celebration of color and freshness, making it a fantastic addition to any light lunch or backyard barbecue. Preparing this salad is a breeze, giving you more time to enjoy the sunshine with friends and family. Plus, it’s healthy, gluten-free, and a surefire way to impress your guests! Curious to discover the secret to this refreshing summer masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

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Why is Cucumber Strawberry Salad a Must-Make?

Bursting with Flavor: This salad brings together juicy strawberries and crunchy cucumbers for a delicious taste explosion in every bite.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick assembly, you’ll have more time to savor relaxing summer afternoons.
Healthy and Gluten-Free: Perfect for those seeking a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor—225 calories per serving!
Versatile Serving Options: Whether as a light lunch or a stunning side dish at a barbecue, it’s certain to please any crowd. Pair it with a refreshing drink like Strawberry Dirty Sprite for the ultimate summer feast!

Cucumber Strawberry Salad Ingredients

• Discover the perfect blend of freshness!

For the Salad

Strawberries – Provides sweetness and vibrant color; substitute with blueberries for a unique twist.
Cucumber – Offers a hydrating crunch; a seedless variety is best for a smooth texture.
Red Onion – Adds savory sharpness; tweak the amount based on your preferred taste level.
Fresh Mint Leaves – Contributes a refreshing aromatic lift, essential for that dreamy summer essence.
Fresh Basil Leaves – Delivers a peppery sweetness that beautifully complements the fruit.

For the Toppings

Feta Cheese – Introduces a creamy, salty kick; goat cheese makes a tangy substitute if desired.
Walnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; swap in sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free alternative.

For the Dressing

Balsamic Glaze – Provides sweet-tart complexity; you can mix balsamic vinegar with honey for a similar sweetness.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds a rich mouthfeel; feel free to use any light oil as an alternative.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavors of your Cucumber Strawberry Salad.

So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a vibrant dish that will brighten up your summer gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cucumber Strawberry Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing your strawberries thoroughly under cool water. Remove the green tops, also known as the hulls, and slice them evenly for consistent sweetness, aiming for about ¼-inch thick pieces. As you work, enjoy the delightful aroma of fresh berries, which will set the stage for your vibrant Cucumber Strawberry Salad.

Step 2: Slice the Cucumber
Next, take a seedless cucumber and slice it into thin rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline for optimal texture. Aim for slices around ⅛-inch thick, which will provide the perfect crunch for your salad. As you prepare the cucumber, make sure to place the slices in a separate bowl to maintain their freshness and crispness until you’re ready to combine everything.

Step 3: Prepare the Red Onion
Now, thinly slice a small red onion, adjusting the quantity based on your taste preference. Aim for slices that are just a few millimeters thick to ensure they blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. Set the slices aside in a bowl; the sharpness of the onion will add a necessary depth to your Cucumber Strawberry Salad.

Step 4: Combine the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, layer the freshly sliced strawberries, cucumber, and red onion. Gently place the strawberries at the bottom for a pleasing presentation, followed by the cucumber, and top with the onions. This layering ensures an even distribution of flavors in your Cucumber Strawberry Salad when you toss everything together.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Finely chop a handful of fresh mint and basil leaves, then sprinkle them generously over the layered ingredients in the bowl. These aromatic herbs will impart a delightful freshness to your salad, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Now is the time to soak in the vibrant colors and smells as you prepare to mix in the next ingredients.

Step 6: Toss the Salad
Using a large wooden spoon, gently toss the salad without crushing the strawberries. The goal is to mix all the ingredients so that the strawberries, cucumbers, onions, and herbs are evenly distributed. This gentle motion helps maintain the freshness of the salad while allowing the flavors to start melding beautifully.

Step 7: Add Toppings
Once the salad is nicely tossed, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts on top. These toppings will add a creamy, salty element and a delightful crunch to your Cucumber Strawberry Salad. Take a moment to admire the beautiful contrast of colors and textures before moving on to the next step.

Step 8: Drizzle the Dressing
Now, dribble balsamic glaze and a splash of extra virgin olive oil over the assembled salad. The sweet-tart glaze will enhance the fruity flavors, while the olive oil adds a wonderful richness. Use a light hand with the dressing to keep the salad from becoming too heavy, and savor the delightful aroma that wafts up as you add these finishing touches.

Step 9: Season the Salad
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the salad to enhance all the vibrant flavors. Taste a small bite to find the perfect balance of seasoning for your Cucumber Strawberry Salad, adjusting as necessary. Sufficient seasoning will elevate your dish and ensure that each bite is as flavorful as it should be.

Step 10: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor experience, gently toss the salad one final time to coat everything evenly, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. As the salad chills, the colors will brighten, preparing your dish for a refreshing and delightful presentation when it’s time to serve!

What to Serve with Cucumber Strawberry Salad?

As you savor this vibrant dish, let’s explore delightful accompaniments that will elevate your summer meal experience.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, they add a hearty element, perfectly balancing the salad’s lightness.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, protein-packed side complements the salad’s freshness, and it’s a wholesome addition to your plate.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy on the outside and soft within, their warmth provides a cozy contrast to the cool cucumber and strawberries.
Chilled White Wine Spritzer: A light and refreshing drink, it enhances the fruitiness of the salad while keeping you cool under the sun.
Berry Tart: A sweet finale, this dessert mirrors the salad’s flavors, making it a harmonious way to end a summer meal.

Pairing these options with your Cucumber Strawberry Salad will create a beautifully balanced and unforgettable dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Cucumber Strawberry Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy days! You can slice the strawberries and cucumber up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers to maintain their crispness and prevent browning. The herbs can be chopped and stored similarly for up to 3 days, just keep them in a sealed container to lock in freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the prepped ingredients in a bowl, add the feta, walnuts, and dressing, and toss gently to combine. This way, you’ll enjoy a refreshing salad with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made from scratch!

Cucumber Strawberry Salad Variations

Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on the classic Cucumber Strawberry Salad!

Berry Blast: Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a deliciously different fruit flavor that still sings of summer sweetness. The bright colors will make your salad even more appealing!
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative to create a creamy, dairy-free version. This way, everyone can enjoy a refreshing salad without any dietary restrictions holding them back!
Tropical Twist: Add in chunks of kiwi or peach for a fruity flair that transports your tastebuds to a sunny beach. With every bite, the combination of flavors will have you dreaming of tropical destinations.
Crunchy Substitute: Use sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead of walnuts for a nut-free option that’s just as crunchy and satisfying. This variation brings a delightful texture while keeping the flavor fresh and unique.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs such as cilantro or dill to elevate the flavor profile. Each herb adds its own character, taking your salad in exciting directions.
Heat It Up: Drizzle a bit of sriracha or add diced jalapeños for a surprising kick! The heat will add an invigorating contrast to the sweetness of the fruit, creating a complex flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Zesty Addition: Squeeze in some fresh lime juice for an extra zesty brightness that automatically perks up the dish. This simple addition can highlight the salad’s flavors beautifully.
Packable Lunch: Layer the salad in mason jars for an on-the-go option! This makes it easy to bring a refreshing, homemade salad to work or picnics while keeping everything neatly contained until lunchtime.

For more inspiration, why not try pairing this salad with a light, refreshing drink like a Strawberry Daiquiri Refreshing or a delicious Cucumber Chicken Salad for an unforgettable summer feast?

How to Store and Freeze Cucumber Strawberry Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container; best consumed within 1-2 days to ensure the freshness of the strawberries and cucumbers.

Dressing Separation: Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crispness and prevent sogginess.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this Cucumber Strawberry Salad, as the texture will suffer once thawed.

Reheating: Enjoy chilled; simply toss the salad if needed before serving to refresh the flavors!

Expert Tips for Cucumber Strawberry Salad

Select High-Quality Fruits: Use fresh, ripe strawberries and crisp cucumbers for the best flavor. Avoid overripe or mushy fruits, which can detract from your salad’s taste.
Herb Freshness: Always opt for fresh mint and basil instead of dried herbs. This ensures the salad has that vibrant summertime aroma and flavor.
Layering Matters: When combining ingredients, layering helps distribute flavors evenly. This gentle approach reduces bruising of delicate strawberries, preserving their texture.
Make Ahead Safely: If prepping in advance, store the salad components separately to maintain freshness. Dress only just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Taste for Balance: Always taste your salad before serving; adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Properly seasoned, your Cucumber Strawberry Salad will shine!
Dairy Alternatives: For a vegan option, substitute feta cheese with a plant-based cheese to keep the salad deliciously creamy while accommodating dietary preferences.

Cucumber Strawberry Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries and cucumbers?
Absolutely! For sweet strawberries, look for vibrant red color with no dark spots. They should feel firm and fragrant. Choose cucumbers that are firm, free of soft spots, and ideally seedless for the best texture in your salad.

How should I store leftover Cucumber Strawberry Salad?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy the salad again to prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze Cucumber Strawberry Salad?
Definitely not! Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the textures of the strawberries and cucumbers will become mushy when thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh!

What if my salad is too watery?
If you find your salad too watery, this may be due to overripe fruit or excess moisture in the cucumbers. To fix this, I often recommend patting the veggies dry with a paper towel before combining them, or draining excess liquid before serving.

Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this salad?
Absolutely! This Cucumber Strawberry Salad contains nuts (walnuts) and dairy (feta cheese). For a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds. If you’re avoiding dairy, opt for a plant-based cheese to keep it vegan-friendly!

Is there a way to prepare this salad in advance?
Very! If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, I suggest keeping the components separate. Slice the strawberries and cucumbers and place them in separate airtight containers. You can prep the herbs and toppings too, but add the dressing just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and crisp!