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Pineapple Cucumber Salad

Refreshing pineapple cucumber salad with juicy sweet pineapple, crisp cucumber, fresh herbs, and a light tangy lime dressing. Ready in 10 minutes — no cooking required. Perfect summer side dish, healthy snack, or light lunch that balances savory mains and brings bright, tropical flavor to any meal. Prep Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes Servings: 4–6 (as side)
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 fresh pineapple 4–5 cups diced or good-quality canned pineapple in juice, drained
  • 2 large English cucumbers or 3–4 regular cucumbers, peeled/seeded
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro or mint chopped
  • 2 –3 Tbsp fresh lime juice from 1–2 limes
  • 1 –2 Tbsp olive oil or neutral oil
  • 1 tsp honey or agave for vegan
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Optional add-ins:
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or chili powder for gentle heat
  • ½ small red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado diced
  • Crumbled feta or cotija cheese

Method
 

  1. Cut pineapple: Remove skin and core, then dice into bite-sized chunks or thin half-moons (~4–5 cups). Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Slice cucumbers: Cut English cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons (~¼ inch thick). If using regular cucumbers, peel and remove seeds first. Add to bowl with pineapple.
  3. Make dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until smooth. Taste and adjust — should be bright and slightly sweet-tangy.
  4. Combine: Pour dressing over pineapple and cucumber. Add chopped cilantro/mint and any optional add-ins (red onion, avocado, cheese). Toss gently until evenly coated.
  5. Rest (optional): Let sit 5–10 minutes at room temperature — flavors meld and juices release.
  6. Serve: Taste and add extra salt, lime, or herbs if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side, snack, or light lunch.

Notes

Pat pineapple and cucumber very dry → prevents watery salad.
English cucumbers → no peeling/seeding needed.
Toss right before serving → keeps everything crisp longest.
Best eaten same day — cucumbers release water and soften over time.
Vegan/gluten-free/paleo — naturally yes (use agave instead of honey if desired).
Add protein (grilled shrimp/chicken/chickpeas) to make it a meal.