Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cucumber salsa is a crisp, refreshing, and healthy alternative to traditional salsa. It’s packed with hydrating cucumbers, vibrant flavors, and a perfect balance of crunch and zest. Whether you’re looking for a light dip, a flavorful topping, or a way to spice up your meal without the heat of a traditional salsa, this recipe is perfect.
- Light and Refreshing – Perfect for warm weather, picnics, and barbecues.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare – Requires minimal chopping and no cooking.
- Versatile – Great as a dip with tortilla chips, a topping for grilled meats, or a side dish.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Low in calories, high in vitamins, and hydrating.
- Customizable – Adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- Cucumbers
- Roma tomatoes
- Red onion
- Jalapeño
- Cilantro
- Lime juice
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Start by peeling (optional) and dicing the cucumbers into small cubes. Dice the Roma tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and mince the garlic.
- Add Heat (Optional) – If you prefer a bit of spice, finely dice a jalapeño, removing the seeds for less heat or keeping them for an extra kick.
- Combine the Ingredients – In a large bowl, mix the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and garlic.
- Add Freshness – Chop fresh cilantro and add it to the bowl.
- Season the Salsa – Drizzle olive oil and fresh lime juice over the mixture. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Mix and Chill – Stir well to combine all flavors. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve chilled with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled fish or chicken, or as a refreshing side dish.
Variations
- Mango Cucumber Salsa – Add diced mango for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Avocado Cucumber Salsa – Mix in diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick – Add extra jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Greek-Inspired – Replace cilantro with fresh dill and add crumbled feta cheese.
- Tropical Touch – Include pineapple or papaya for a more tropical taste.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store cucumber salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Avoid Freezing: Due to the high water content of cucumbers, freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture.
- Refreshing Leftovers: If the salsa releases excess liquid, simply drain it before serving. Add a fresh squeeze of lime juice to revive the flavors.
FAQs
How do I prevent the salsa from becoming watery?
To reduce excess liquid, remove the seeds from the cucumbers and tomatoes before dicing.
Can I make cucumber salsa ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, consume within a day. The flavors meld well after chilling for at least 30 minutes.
What type of cucumbers work best?
English cucumbers are ideal as they have fewer seeds and a crisper texture. Persian cucumbers also work well.
Is cucumber salsa spicy?
This depends on the jalapeño. Removing the seeds will make it milder, while keeping them adds more heat.
What can I serve with cucumber salsa?
It pairs well with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, fish tacos, shrimp, or as a salad topping.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes, lemon juice can be substituted, though lime provides a more authentic and slightly sweeter tang.
How can I make it more flavorful?
Let it chill longer, add a pinch of cumin, or mix in diced bell peppers for extra crunch.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is recommended for the best flavor, but dried cilantro can work in a pinch. Use a smaller quantity.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
Replace it with parsley or basil for a different herbaceous note.
Is cucumber salsa keto-friendly?
Yes, as it is naturally low in carbs and sugar, making it a great keto-friendly option.
Conclusion
Cucumber salsa is a delicious, light, and refreshing alternative to traditional salsas. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or a vibrant topping, this recipe delivers a burst of fresh flavors with every bite. Try it out and customize it to suit your taste, and enjoy a cool and healthy dish any time of the year!
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Cucumber Salsa Recipe: A Refreshing and Zesty Twist
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
A refreshing and zesty cucumber salsa packed with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a hint of spice. Perfect as a dip, topping, or light side dish for warm-weather meals.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, diced (peel optional)
- 3 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice cucumbers and Roma tomatoes, finely chop red onion, and mince garlic.
- Optional Heat: Dice jalapeño and remove seeds for milder spice, or keep them for extra heat.
- Combine: Mix cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and garlic in a large bowl.
- Add Freshness: Stir in chopped cilantro.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the mixture, then season with salt and black pepper.
- Mix & Chill: Stir well to combine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve chilled with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled meats, or as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Drain excess liquid before serving.
- Variations: Add mango or avocado for a twist, or swap cilantro for dill and add feta for a Greek-inspired version.
- Customization: Adjust ingredients and spice levels to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: appetizer, side dish
- Method: no cook
- Cuisine: mexican inspired
Keywords: cucumber salsa, fresh salsa, healthy dip, easy appetizer, summer recipe
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