Pineapple Cucumber Salad

This crisp pineapple cucumber salad brings juicy sweetness and refreshing crunch for hot days picnic spreads and lighter meals all year long Every bite is bright with tart lime and herby cilantro the kind of side you make in a hurry and return to again and again

I first tossed this together on a humid weekend after a long walk My family loved it so much we brought it to every summer barbecue that year

Ingredients

• Fresh pineapple: gives natural sweetness and vibrant tropical flavor Pick one that is mostly golden and smells fragrant for peak ripeness
• English cucumber: brings a cool crisp bite Opt for firm cucumbers with glossy skin for best crunch
• Fresh limes: add tang and brightness Roll them on the counter before zesting and juicing to get the most juice out
• Fresh cilantro: infuses herbal freshness Wash well and use both leaves and tender upper stems for balance
• Salt and pepper (optional): but they make all the flavors pop Use flaky sea salt if available for extra crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Trim and Prep the Pineapple:

Remove the top and bottom of your pineapple so it stands flat Carefully use a sharp knife to slice away all the outer skin cutting deep enough to remove brown eyes Cut around the core in four slabs then cube the flesh into half inch pieces

Slice the Cucumber:

Rinse the English cucumber Slice in half lengthwise then cut each half into quarter inch half moons leaving the peel for extra texture and nutrients

Zest and Juice the Limes:

Zest both limes directly over your ingredients so all the oils are caught in the bowl Cut limes in half and squeeze out all their juice making sure to catch any stray seeds

Chop Cilantro:

Roughly chop a generous handful of fresh cilantro leaves plus some tender stems for full flavor

Combine and Season:

Add pineapple cucumber lime zest and juice and cilantro to a large mixing bowl Gently toss everything together with a sprinkle of salt and fresh pepper if you like Taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Serve or Store:

Enjoy right away for maximum crunch or refrigerate tightly covered for up to three days tossing again before serving to refresh flavors

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The fresh pineapple here is my absolute favorite It reminds me of my grandmother slicing up ripe pineapples straight from her garden while we played outside Hot afternoons were always made sweeter and cooler with a big bowl of this salad

Storage Tips

This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If the pineapple releases a lot of juice just drain some off before serving The flavors meld beautifully over time but cucumber may soften a bit after the second day

Ingredient Substitutions

No cilantro on hand Try fresh mint for a similar aromatic quality You can swap English cucumber for Persian or regular slicing cucumber just scoop out seeds if they are too watery Lemon can sub for lime if needed though the flavor will be slightly different

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a colorful companion to spicy grilled meats tacos fried fish or rice dishes It also makes a refreshing afternoon snack or light lunch with a scoop of cottage cheese or Greek yogurt I have even spooned it over nachos for a sweet and tangy twist

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Cultural Context

This dish riffs on traditional fruit salads from Latin America especially those bright chunky salads you might find at summer stalls in Mexico or Central America The pairing of lime salt and fruit turns something familiar into something new Add a pinch of chili powder if you want an authentic kick

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator and stir gently before serving to maintain the best texture.

→ What type of cucumber works best?

English cucumbers are recommended as they have a thin skin and fewer seeds, resulting in a mild, crisp bite.

→ Do I need to remove the pineapple core?

Yes, the core is tough and not as enjoyable as the flesh. Slice around the core for best results.

→ How can I add extra flavor?

Try adding chili flakes for heat or a pinch of sugar for extra sweetness. Fresh mint is also a great herbal addition.

→ How long does the salad stay fresh?

Keep refrigerated and enjoy within 3 days. The salad will soften over time but remain flavorful.

→ Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, but bottled lime juice can work in a pinch.