Description
A refreshing and vibrant Sweet Pineapple Cucumber Salad that combines juicy pineapple, crisp cucumber, and zesty lime dressing. Enhanced with cilantro, jalapeño for a hint of heat, and crumbled feta for a touch of saltiness, this salad is perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups diced fresh pineapple
- 1 large English cucumber, diced (or 2 Persian cucumbers, diced)
- 1/4 small red onion, sliced thin
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
- 1 small jalapeño, sliced thin (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for saltiness)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Produce: Dice the fresh pineapple and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red onion very thinly to ensure it blends well with the other crunchy ingredients. If using jalapeño, slice it thinly and remove seeds if you want less heat.
- Mix the Vegetables and Pineapple: In a large bowl, combine the diced pineapple, cucumber, sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño slices. Toss gently to combine.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, honey or maple syrup, and olive oil. Season with salt, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix until well emulsified.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pineapple and cucumber mixture. Toss everything together gently to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Add the Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad and give it a final gentle toss, careful not to break up the cheese too much.
- Serve: Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors before serving chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy as a refreshing side or light snack.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Adjust the heat level by omitting the jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best tangy flavor.
- Try adding chopped mint or basil for a different herbal twist.
