Description
This Spicy Fresh Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and zesty side dish that’s perfect for warm weather. Featuring thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, fresh cilantro, and a tangy lime dressing with a kick of chili flakes, it’s easy to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors. Perfect as a light snack or accompaniment to grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 medium Fresh cucumbers (Thin-skinned varieties like Persian or English are best.)
- 0.5 medium Red onion (Thinly sliced.)
- 1 handful Fresh cilantro (Roughly chopped; parsley can be used as an alternative.)
Seasonings & Spices
- 1-2 teaspoons Chili flakes or fresh chilies (Adjust based on heat preference.)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.)
Dressing
- 1 large Lime juice (Freshly squeezed.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Extra virgin is preferred.)
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water and pat dry to remove any dirt or residue.
- Slice cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons to create bite-sized pieces for the salad.
- Combine cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl, preparing the base of the salad.
- Prepare onion: Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the cucumbers for a sharp flavor contrast.
- Add heat: Add chili flakes or chopped fresh chilies to the bowl according to your preferred spice level.
- Add herbs: Add the chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl, or parsley if preferred, to add a burst of freshness.
- Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lime juice and extra virgin olive oil to create a tangy and smooth dressing.
- Toss salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing.
- Season: Sprinkle salt over the salad and mix again to distribute seasoning throughout the dish.
- Rest: Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and for the cucumbers to absorb the dressing.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cilantro leaves or additional chili flakes if desired for presentation and added flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use thin-skinned cucumbers like Persian or English cucumbers for a crisp texture without bitterness.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes or fresh chilies according to your heat tolerance.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- Substitute parsley for cilantro if you prefer a milder herbal flavor.
- Allowing the salad to rest before serving enhances the flavors and softens the onions slightly.
