Pineapple Cucumber Salad

A refreshing and vibrant side dish, this Pineapple Cucumber Salad combines the sweetness of ripe pineapple with the cool crunch of cucumber, all brightened by a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for warm days and casual gatherings, it’s a delightful way to add color and flavor to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep.

• Light and Refreshing: Ideal for hot weather or as a palate cleanser between courses.

• Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free: Suits a variety of dietary needs without substitutions.

• Bursting with Flavor: The interplay of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous notes keeps every bite interesting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced

• 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 jalapeño (optional), seeded and finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)

• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the produce. Dice the pineapple into bite-sized pieces and thinly slice the cucumber and red onion. If using, finely chop the jalapeño and cilantro.

2. Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey (or agave), and olive oil until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

3. Toss everything together. In a serving bowl, combine pineapple, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

4. Season and serve. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, or chill briefly for a cooler presentation.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 as a side dish

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Leave some jalapeño seeds in for extra heat, or substitute a serrano pepper.

• Herb Swap: Use mint, basil, or Thai basil in place of cilantro for a different herbal note.

• Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or papaya alongside the pineapple.

• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked shrimp or cubed tofu for a light main-dish salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumber will become slightly softer over time, and the dressing may draw out more liquid.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold; reheating is not recommended. If juices accumulate, drain excess liquid before serving.

FAQs

What type of cucumber is best for this salad?

English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, resulting in a crisp texture. You may also use Persian cucumbers if that’s what’s available.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

While fresh pineapple offers the best texture and flavor, canned pineapple (drained) can be substituted in a pinch. Reduce added sweetener accordingly, as canned fruit is often sweeter.

How far in advance can I prepare this salad?

For optimum freshness and crunch, prepare no more than 2 hours before serving. Beyond that, the vegetables release water and become limp.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes. Store components separately—the dressing in its own container and the chopped fruit and vegetables in another—to maintain texture for up to two days.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely. Use agave syrup in place of honey to keep the recipe entirely plant-based.

What other dressings pair well with pineapple and cucumber?

A spicy peanut dressing or a yogurt-lime dressing can be excellent alternatives, adding creaminess or depth of flavor.

How can I reduce the liquid released by the cucumber?

After slicing, sprinkle the cucumber with a pinch of salt and let it rest in a colander for 10 minutes, then pat dry before combining with other ingredients.

Can I add avocado to this salad?

Yes—add diced avocado just before serving to avoid browning. The creamy texture complements the crisp cucumber and juicy pineapple.

What can I serve alongside this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus and pita.

How can I make this salad spicier without jalapeño?

Drizzle with a bit of chili oil or sprinkle in red pepper flakes to achieve heat without additional peppers.

Conclusion

This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is an effortless way to bring brightness and balance to any meal. With its combination of sweet fruit, crisp vegetables, and zesty lime dressing, it’s destined to become a summer staple that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or simply craving a light side, this salad delivers flavor and freshness in every bite.