Refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Salad
This cucumber strawberry salad is the ultimate summer refresher—light, crisp, and bursting with bright, juicy flavor. The natural sweetness of strawberries pairs perfectly with cool, crunchy cucumber, all tied together with a light honey-balsamic dressing and fresh mint. Whether you’re serving it as a side, appetizer, or healthy snack, this simple salad delivers vibrant flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Healthy & fresh: Low-calorie, nutrient-rich, and perfect for clean eating.
- Sweet & savory: A delightful balance of flavors with a touch of tangy dressing.
- Perfect for warm weather: A cooling, refreshing dish for summer gatherings or light lunches.
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber
- 2 cups strawberries
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Wash the cucumber thoroughly under cold running water.
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Rinse and dry the strawberries. Remove the leafy tops and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Add to the cucumber bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey until fully combined.
- Add salt and black pepper to the dressing and whisk again.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber and strawberry slices.
- Gently toss the salad to coat the fruit and veggies evenly in the dressing.
- Rinse and pat dry the fresh mint leaves. Stack and slice them into thin ribbons (chiffonade).
- Add the mint to the salad and toss once more to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more honey, salt, or pepper as desired.
- Let the salad sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately, or chill until ready to enjoy. For best texture, consume within a few hours.
Tips for the Best Cucumber Strawberry Salad
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor and best texture.
- English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best—they’re crisp with minimal seeds.
- Add-ins: Try crumbled feta, toasted almonds, or arugula for a twist.
- Make it ahead: Prep all components in advance, but wait to combine and dress until just before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber strawberry salad makes a beautiful appetizer or side for grilled chicken, fish, or light pasta dishes. It’s also a hit at picnics, potlucks, and brunches. Serve it in a chilled bowl for extra refreshment on hot days.
More Fresh Summer Salad Recipes
- Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint
- Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
- Berry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Final Thoughts
With just a few simple ingredients, this cucumber strawberry salad delivers big on flavor, freshness, and visual appeal. It’s the kind of recipe that’s equally at home on a summer picnic table or at an elegant brunch spread. Keep it in your seasonal rotation—you’ll be glad you did!