This Fresh and Easy Mexican Cucumber Salad is a cool and crisp treat! With juicy cucumbers, tangy lime, and a sprinkle of chili, it’s sure to brighten any meal.
You can’t go wrong with this refreshing salad—it’s like summer on a plate! Perfect for weekday dinners or a fancy fiesta. I love pairing it with tacos for a tasty combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using medium cucumbers for their crisp texture. If you’re in a pinch, English cucumbers work well too, as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
Red Onion: Red onions add a beautiful color and mild flavor. You can swap in white onions for a more pungent taste or green onions for a milder kick.
Jalapeño: This is optional but adds a nice heat. If you prefer less spice, consider using a bell pepper or omitting it altogether.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley makes a good alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Cheese: Queso fresco or cotija cheese enhances the flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor.
How Can You Make the Most of Your Dressing?
Getting the dressing right is key to making your salad shine! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by whisking your lime juice and vinegar together until well blended. This combination adds brightness!
- Next, add sugar, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the sugar completely dissolves for a smooth dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mix and toss well to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly.
- Let the salad rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors combine beautifully!
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish alongside your favorite meals! It’s super easy and refreshing!
Fresh and Easy Mexican Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad can be made in about 10 minutes, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for marinating. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve. Perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the peeled and thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, and jalapeño (if you like a little heat). Then, add the fresh cilantro and give it all a good mix.
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, vinegar, sugar, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure to whisk it until the sugar is fully dissolved; this will help blend the flavors nicely!
3. Combine the Dressing with the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss everything together well so that all the veggies are coated with that delicious dressing.
4. Let It Marinate:
Let the salad sit for at least 15-20 minutes. This marinating time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Add Cheese and Serve:
Just before serving, sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese, if you’re using it. This adds a lovely creamy texture!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside your favorite Mexican meals or grilled dishes. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While medium cucumbers work great, you can also use English cucumbers for a thinner skin and fewer seeds. Just make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor and crunch!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder salad, you can leave out the jalapeño altogether or substitute it with a bell pepper for a sweet crunch. For more heat, try adding chopped fresh serrano peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately up to a day in advance. Just combine them right before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and fresh!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some moisture, so give it a quick toss before serving again!