Refreshing Pineapple & Cucumber Salad with Red Onion

Servings: 4  |  Prep Time: 15 min  |  Total: 15–20 min

Introduction

Pineapple Cucumber Salad is a bright, juicy, and refreshing dish that celebrates the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and tang. This salad is special because it pairs the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple with the cool crispness of cucumber and the mild sharpness of red onion, creating a lively contrast in every bite. The simple lime dressing enhances the natural flavors while keeping the dish light and vibrant. It’s a perfect side for grilled meats, seafood, summer barbecues, or even as a hydrating snack. Quick tip: Use very cold pineapple and cucumber for the most refreshing texture and taste.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 cups (300 g) fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 large cucumber, diced or thinly sliced
• ¼ cup (40 g) red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup (10 g) chopped fresh cilantro or mint
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped for heat

For the Lime Dressing

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 tsp (5 g) honey or sugar
• ¼ tsp (1 g) salt
• ⅛ tsp (0.5 g) black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the pineapple and cucumber.

   Dice or slice the pineapple and cucumber into even pieces for consistent texture. Ensure the pineapple is ripe and sweet for the best flavor.

2. Slice the onion.

   Thinly slice the red onion so its flavor remains subtle. If you prefer a milder taste, soak the slices in ice water for 5 minutes, then drain.

3. Mix the dressing.

   In a small bowl, whisk lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. The dressing should taste bright, lightly sweet, and tangy.

4. Combine the base ingredients.

   In a large bowl, add pineapple, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently to maintain the shape of the fruit and vegetables.

5. Dress the salad.

   Pour the lime dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. You should see a glossy finish on the ingredients.

6. Taste and adjust.

   Add more lime or honey to balance acidity and sweetness. A pinch of extra salt can help the flavors pop.

7. Chill or serve immediately.

   Serve right away for maximum crunch, or refrigerate for about 10 minutes to enhance the refreshing flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make Pineapple Cucumber Salad ahead of time?

Yes, but prepare it within about 4 hours of serving for the best texture. Add the dressing right before serving to prevent excess moisture and keep everything crisp.

2. Can I use canned pineapple?

Fresh pineapple is best for flavor and texture, but canned pineapple works in a pinch. Be sure to drain it well and choose a variety packed in juice rather than heavy syrup.

3. What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or even spicy tacos pair wonderfully with the sweetness and acidity of this refreshing salad.

Edit This Article