If you’re craving a refreshing twist on your summer menu, this Cucumber Strawberry Salad is exactly what you need. The cool crispness of cucumbers paired with the juicy sweetness of strawberries creates a unique harmony of flavors, perfect for outdoor picnics, barbecue side dishes, or even a light lunch. This simple yet stunning dish doesn’t just look good—it’s an explosion of contrasting textures and flavors that will make your tastebuds dance. From backyard gatherings to health-conscious meal prepping, it’s the kind of salad that earns a permanent spot in your seasonal recipe rotation.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something irresistible about the pairing of cucumbers and strawberries—two powerhouses of hydration and vitamins. You’ll love this salad for its ease, versatility, and nutritional punch. It takes less than 15 minutes to prepare, yet it feels gourmet enough for entertaining. With ingredients you likely have on hand and endless ways to customize, you’ll keep coming back to this dish. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly.
If you enjoy refreshing combinations like this, you might also like the Tomato and Artichoke Salad with Capers, which brings similar vibrant flavors.
Ingredients for Cucumber Strawberry Salad
To create this light and hydrating salad, you’ll need just a few fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering balance and vibrancy:
- Cucumbers (2 medium): Choose seedless (English or Persian) cucumbers for crunch without bitterness. Thinly slice them for a delicate bite.
- Strawberries (1½ cups): Use ripe, sweet strawberries. Slice them to match the size of the cucumber for even texture.
- Fresh Basil (¼ cup, chopped): Adds aromatic sweetness and herbaceous depth.
- Red Onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Offers sharp contrast that balances the fruitiness.
- Feta Cheese (optional – ¼ cup crumbled): Adds creamy, salty richness.
- Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the salad and keeps strawberries vibrant.
- Honey (1 teaspoon): Just a touch enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Smooths everything together with richness.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste): Essential for amplifying all the flavors.
For another cucumber-based creation, check out this Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad.
How to Make Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Here’s how you can prepare this salad in minutes:
- Prep the produce: Wash cucumbers and strawberries thoroughly. Slice cucumbers thinly (a mandoline helps for even cuts), then hull and slice strawberries into halves or quarters depending on size.
- Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss cucumbers, strawberries, red onion, and basil.
- Add dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again, just until combined.
- Finish with feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta on top if using. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
This colorful and hydrating salad pairs wonderfully with Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus, especially for summer dinner menus.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Chill before serving: For peak freshness, refrigerate the salad for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Slice evenly: Thin, uniform slices of cucumber and strawberries ensure each bite is balanced.
- Don’t overdress: Too much dressing will make the salad soggy. Add just enough to coat gently.
- Use fresh herbs: Dried basil won’t give the same aromatic punch as fresh.
- Optional add-ins: Add arugula for a peppery base, or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.
Looking for another tangy side with a twist? Try the Pineapple Cucumber Salad for a tropical variation.
How to Serve Cucumber Strawberry Salad
This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it chilled as a side with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty vegetarian grain bowl. It complements Mediterranean dishes, adds a refreshing note to spicy meals, and elevates brunch platters. Try spooning it into lettuce cups for a finger-food appetizer or layering over mixed greens for a fuller salad experience.
For another bright and simple side, you might like the Spring Salad Recipe, which shares a similar seasonal vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep parts of the salad ahead of time:
- Make ahead: Slice the cucumbers and strawberries, and store separately in airtight containers for up to a day.
- Store assembled salad: Once mixed, consume within 24 hours. The fruit will start releasing juices and may soften.
- Avoid freezing: The texture of both cucumbers and strawberries doesn’t hold up to freezing.
If you enjoy make-ahead recipes like this, you may also want to explore our Mini Key Lime Cheesecakes for a chilled dessert to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cucumbers and strawberries go together?
Absolutely. Their contrast in flavor—cool, crisp cucumber and juicy, sweet strawberry—creates a refreshing, balanced dish.
What should not be mixed with cucumber salad?
Avoid watery or overly acidic dressings that can make the cucumbers mushy. Also, dairy-heavy ingredients can overpower the fresh flavor unless balanced well.
Why soak cucumbers in salt water before making cucumber salad?
Salt draws out excess water, which prevents the salad from becoming soggy and helps concentrate the cucumber’s flavor.
What fruits go well with cucumber?
Besides strawberries, try watermelon, pineapple, mango, or citrus fruits for complementary sweetness and acidity.
What are cucumbers not compatible with?
Cucumbers don’t pair well with strong-flavored meats or ingredients with intense umami like anchovies or fermented products.
What are strawberries not compatible with?
Strawberries clash with overly bitter greens or strong cheeses like blue cheese unless balanced carefully with sweet and acidic components.
Explore more unique pairings in our Cucumber Caprese Salad for another twist on cucumber-based salads.
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Whether you’re entertaining or meal prepping, this refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a must-try. Its versatility, stunning presentation, and balance of textures will make it a favorite on your table. From casual lunches to upscale summer soirees, this salad proves that simple ingredients can be extraordinary.
Try this recipe today and discover your new go-to summer favorite!
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Cucumber Strawberry Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing blend of crisp cucumbers and juicy strawberries tossed with basil, lemon, and honey. Perfect for summer meals.
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
- 1½ cups strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped basil
- ¼ cup crumbled feta (optional)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and slice all produce.
- Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl.
- Toss with dressing and top with feta. Serve fresh.
Notes
Best served immediately after preparation for maximum freshness. Can be customized with mint, arugula, or nuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cucumber Strawberry Salad, Summer Salad, Healthy Salad