Mexican Cucumber Salad
Introduction
If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish, the Mexican cucumber salad is sure to be a delightful addition to your meals. This light and zesty salad blends the crispness of cucumbers with traditional Mexican flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment or a refreshing snack on its own. Packed with tangy notes and a slight crunch, this recipe brings simplicity and flavor to your table.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Cucumber – 2 large, sliced
Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved
Red onion – 1 small, finely chopped
Cilantro – 1/4 cup, chopped
Lime juice – 3 tablespoons
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Salt – To taste
Pepper – To taste
Optional add-ons: Tajín seasoning, avocado, or sliced jalapeños
Prep Time
Preparing this Mexican cucumber salad is a breeze, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. You will spend no more than 15 minutes preparing all the ingredients and assembling the salad.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: Not applicable, as this is a no-cook recipe
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish or appetizer.
Enjoy this refreshing and effortless recipe with a touch of zing that will surely complement your meals or spice up your snack cravings!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
– Wash and peel the cucumbers as desired. You can leave them partially peeled for added texture and presentation.
– Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, based on your preference.
Step 2: Prepare the Red Onion and Jalapeño
– Peel the red onion and slice it thinly.
– Remove the seeds and veins from the jalapeño for less spice (optional), then dice it finely.
Step 3: Chop the Cilantro
– Rinse the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry.
– Finely chop the cilantro leaves, discarding the larger stems.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
– In a mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
– Whisk the mixture thoroughly until it is well-combined.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, red onion, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeño.
– Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables.
Step 6: Toss the Salad
– Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 7: Chill the Salad (Optional)
– Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
– This step is optional but enhances the taste.
Step 8: Serve
– Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or plate.
– Garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired.
– Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Customizing Spice Level
– For a less spicy option, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño, or omit it entirely.
– If you like extra heat, consider adding an additional jalapeño or a pinch of chili powder.
Optional Add-Ons
– Add cubed avocado for a creamy texture.
– Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for a salty twist.
– Include diced tomatoes or bell peppers for additional color and crunch.
Storage Tips
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
– Note that the salad may release some liquid over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair this salad with grilled meats, tacos, or other Mexican-inspired dishes for a complete meal.
– It also works as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks.
Cook techniques
Cutting Cucumbers Evenly
To ensure uniform cucumber slices, use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. This ensures consistent texture and even flavor distribution throughout the salad.
Salting the Cucumbers
Lightly salting the cucumbers before adding them to the salad helps remove excess moisture, enhancing their crunch and preventing a soggy dish.
Mixing Ingredients Gently
Combine ingredients carefully to avoid smashing the cucumbers while ensuring an even coating of lime juice and seasoning.
Chilling Before Serving
Refrigerate the salad for at least 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together for a more vibrant taste.
Customizing Heat Levels
When adding chili powder or jalapeño, adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance to balance the spice in the salad.
FAQ
Can I use another type of cucumber for this salad?
Yes, you can use any cucumber variety, such as English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, as long as they are fresh and crisp.
How long will this salad stay fresh?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If stored in the refrigerator, consume it within a day to maintain its crunch and flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the cucumber slices and dressing ahead of time, but avoid combining them until right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, feel free to include other vegetables like tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers to add more texture and flavor.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely. The salad uses only plant-based ingredients, making it vegan-friendly.
What can I substitute for lime juice?
If lime juice is unavailable, you can substitute it with lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.
Conclusion
Mexican cucumber salad is a refreshing, vibrant, and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its combination of fresh cucumbers, zesty lime, and bold seasonings creates a harmonious balance of taste and texture. Whether served as a standalone snack, a light side dish, or paired with your favorite Mexican-inspired meals, this recipe is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Pair the cucumber salad with a creamy and smoky Mexican street corn salad for a satisfying side dish duo bursting with authentic flavors.
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Serve with grilled chicken tacos to complement the smoky, tender meat with a light and crunchy salad.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips
Add a bowl of guacamole and tortilla chips alongside to create a complete Mexican-inspired platter.
Black Bean and Quinoa Salad
Pair with a hearty black bean and quinoa salad for a healthy and nourishing combination.
Chili Lime Shrimp Skewers
The zesty cucumber salad is an excellent match for spicy chili lime shrimp skewers for a balanced meal.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Include the salad as a refreshing accompaniment to cheesy and flavorful stuffed bell peppers.
Chicken Fajitas
Serve as a side dish to colorful and sizzling chicken fajitas for a vibrant and filling dinner.
Avocado Salsa
Combine with avocado salsa for a fresh and creamy pairing perfect for dipping or topping dishes.
