Pineapple Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing Tropical Delight

If you’re craving something light crisp and bursting with tropical flavors this Pineapple Cucumber Salad is your answer. Perfect for hot summer days BBQs or as a vibrant side dish this recipe balances sweetness tang and crunch in every bite. Plus it’s ridiculously easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- No cooking required – Just chop mix and serve.
- Hydrating & nutritious – Cucumbers keep you refreshed while pineapple delivers a dose of vitamin C.
- Versatile – Pairs well with grilled meats seafood or stands alone as a healthy snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4)
- 1½ cups fresh pineapple diced (or sub with ripe mango for a twist!)
- 1 large cucumber thinly sliced (English cucumber works best for fewer seeds)
- ¼ red onion thinly sliced (soak in cold water for 5 mins to mellow the sharpness)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro or mint chopped
- 1 jalapeño (optional) seeded and finely sliced
- 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tbsp honey or agave (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed peanuts or toasted coconut flakes for garnish (trust me this adds magic!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Veggies & Fruit
- Dice the pineapple into bite-sized chunks. Pro tip: If using fresh pineapple save the core for smoothies—it’s packed with bromelain a natural digestive enzyme!
- Slice the cucumber thinly (a mandoline makes this effortless).
- Soak the red onion in ice water for 5 minutes to reduce its pungency—game-changer for sensitive palates!
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl whisk together:
- Lime juice + honey (balance the sweet-tart ratio to your liking)
- A pinch of salt and pepper
3. Toss & Garnish
- Gently combine pineapple cucumber onion cilantro and jalapeño (if using) in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing and toss lightly—don’t overmix or the cucumbers will lose their crunch!
- Top with crushed peanuts or coconut flakes for a satisfying texture contrast.
Pro Tips for the Best Salad
- Chill before serving – Let it sit for 10 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Add protein – Grilled shrimp or tofu turn this into a light meal.
- Swap the acid – Try rice vinegar or tamarind paste instead of lime for fun variations.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is like sunshine in a bowl—bright refreshing and just a little bit playful. It’s proof that the best recipes often come together in minutes but leave a lasting impression.
Got leftovers? (Unlikely but just in case.) Store them in an airtight container for up to a day—though the cucumbers will soften slightly.
Now go grab a fork and taste the tropics!