Description
A refreshing and spicy cucumber salad featuring thinly sliced fresh cucumbers, red onion, and cilantro tossed in a zesty lime and olive oil dressing with a kick of chili flakes. Perfect as a light side dish for warm weather or to complement grilled meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 3 medium fresh cucumbers (Thin-skinned varieties like Persian or English are best)
- 0.5 medium red onion (Thinly sliced)
- 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes or fresh chilies (Adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 handful fresh cilantro (Roughly chopped; parsley can be used as an alternative)
Dressing
- 1 large lime, juiced (Freshly squeezed)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Wash Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Slice Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference for bite size and presentation.
- Prepare Mixing Bowl: Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl to combine all salad ingredients smoothly.
- Slice Onions: Thinly slice the red onion and add it directly to the cucumber bowl, distributing evenly.
- Add Chili: Sprinkle in the chili flakes or freshly chopped chilies based on your spice preference for heat.
- Add Cilantro: Toss in the chopped fresh cilantro leaves, or substitute with parsley if preferred, to add herbaceous freshness.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lime juice and extra virgin olive oil to create the tangy dressing.
- Toss Salad: Pour the lime and olive oil dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Season: Sprinkle salt over the salad and mix gently again to ensure the seasoning is well distributed throughout.
- Rest: Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the ingredients to marinate lightly.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cilantro leaves or additional chili flakes if desired before serving.
Notes
- Choose thin-skinned cucumbers like Persian or English for best texture and minimal bitterness.
- Adjust chili flakes or fresh chili quantity according to your desired spice level.
- Letting the salad rest enhances flavor absorption and softens the onions slightly.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- For a vegan and gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients are fresh and pure without additives.
