Tired of heavy meals? Craving a vibrant and healthy dish that's bursting with fresh flavors? Then look no further! This Strawberry Cucumber Salad is the perfect answer. It's a simple, delicious recipe that's ideal for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or even a unique dessert. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Let's dive into this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the ingredients: Begin by washing and preparing all your fruits and vegetables. Hull and slice the strawberries, peel, seed, and thinly slice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. Chopping the mint leaves will release their fresh aroma. This step is crucial for a quick and efficient cooking process.
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Combine the salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced strawberries, cucumber, and red onion. Be gentle to avoid bruising the strawberries.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. The balance of sweet and tart in this simple dressing elevates the dish.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the strawberry and cucumber mixture, tossing gently to coat evenly. Don't over-toss; you want the ingredients to remain vibrant.
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Add the finishing touches: Stir in the chopped mint leaves and crumbled feta cheese (if using). The feta adds a delightful salty tang that complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.
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Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious culinary experience. Serve chilled and enjoy! This healthy meal is perfect as a quick dinner idea.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Different cheese: Goat cheese or crumbled blue cheese can be substituted for feta.
- Add some crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a wonderful textural contrast.
- Make it a main course: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier salad.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the dressing and adjust the honey or maple syrup according to your preference. Some might prefer a more tart salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This Strawberry Cucumber Salad is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a summer barbecue. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one is no exception. Enjoy!