Cucumber Strawberry Salad (Printable Version)
Crisp cucumber, sweet strawberry, and mint tossed in a light balsamic-honey dressing—ideal chilled.
# What You'll Need:
→ Fresh Produce
01 - 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
03 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
→ Dressing
05 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
07 - 1 teaspoon honey
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional Additions
10 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
11 - 2 tablespoons toasted slivered almonds
# Directions:
01 - In a large salad bowl, gently toss together the sliced cucumbers, strawberries, red onion, and chopped mint until evenly distributed.
02 - In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is fully emulsified.
03 - Drizzle the prepared dressing over the cucumber-strawberry mixture and toss gently to coat the ingredients without bruising.
04 - Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and toasted slivered almonds, if desired, just before serving.
05 - Serve immediately to preserve the salad’s freshness and crisp texture.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It brings together unexpected flavors in a way that always surprises guests (in the best way).
- Quick to make, even when you're short on time or motivation in the summer heat.
02 -
- If you make it ahead, the salad can get watery—mix it just before serving for the best crunch.
- Soaking red onion slices in ice water for five minutes takes the bite out (a lifesaver if you’re onion sensitive).
03 -
- Chill all your ingredients beforehand so the salad is extra refreshing.
- Try a drizzle of champagne vinegar instead of balsamic for a lighter twist—it completely changes the vibe.