Pineapple Cucumber Salad: 15 Min Refreshing Treat

Name: Pineapple Cucumber Salad: 15 Min Refreshing Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Not specified
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced; 1 large cucumber, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon honey (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

by Fenna Saul

August 10, 2025

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Pineapple Cucumber Salad has been my go-to for beating the heat and adding a burst of sunshine to any meal. I remember the first time I tried a truly fresh pineapple cucumber salad; it was at a summer barbecue, and the combination of sweet, juicy pineapple and cool, crisp cucumber was pure magic. It’s such an easy pineapple cucumber salad recipe to whip up, perfect for those days when you want something light, healthy, and incredibly refreshing without a lot of fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Cucumber Salad

This delightful salad is a summer dream come true for so many reasons!

Taste: It offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crisp flavors that dance on your palate.
Prep Time: You can throw together this refreshing pineapple cucumber salad in under 15 minutes – no cooking required!
Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins and hydration, it’s a wonderfully healthy pineapple cucumber salad choice. You can learn more about the health benefits of healthy eating.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple, accessible ingredients makes this a cost-effective side dish.
Family-Friendly: Its mild, sweet flavor profile is a hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatility: It’s the perfect light accompaniment to grilled meats or as a stand-alone treat.
Refreshing: This truly is a refreshing pineapple cucumber salad that cools you down on the hottest days.

Ingredients for Pineapple Cucumber Salad

Gathering the ingredients for this amazing pineapple cucumber salad is a breeze. You’ll need the stars of the show: 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced, for that tropical sweetness, and 1 large cucumber, sliced, to bring the cool crunch. For a bit of zing, we’ll add 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced, and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for a burst of freshness. The simple yet vibrant pineapple cucumber salad dressing comes together with 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon honey (optional) for a touch of sweetness, and just a pinch of 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper to enhance all those flavors.

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How to Make Pineapple Cucumber Salad

Whipping up this delightful cucumber pineapple salad recipe is incredibly simple and requires no cooking whatsoever. It’s the perfect way to bring a burst of fresh flavor to your table in minutes.

Step 1: Start by preparing your main ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of fresh pineapple, diced, ensuring each piece is juicy and sweet. Add the 1 large cucumber, sliced into crisp rounds or half-moons. The cool crunch of the cucumber is essential for this refreshing pineapple cucumber salad.
Step 2: Next, add the aromatics and herbs. Toss in the 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced, for a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness. Then, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped, for a bright, herbaceous note that really elevates the dish.
Step 3: Now, let’s prepare the vibrant pineapple cucumber salad dressing. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 1 tablespoon of lime juice, which provides a zesty tang, with the 1 teaspoon of honey (optional) if you prefer a slightly sweeter profile. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper to enhance all the flavors. This simple dressing truly makes this cucumber pineapple salad recipe shine.
Step 4: It’s time to bring it all together! Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the pineapple and cucumber mixture in the large bowl.
Step 5: Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. You want to ensure every bite of this easy pineapple cucumber salad is bursting with flavor. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or cover and chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. This is how you make pineapple cucumber salad that’s truly irresistible.

Pro Tips for the Best Pineapple Cucumber Salad

Want to elevate your pineapple cucumber salad game? Follow these simple tips for a truly exceptional side dish.

Use ripe, fresh pineapple for the best sweetness and flavor. A slightly softer pineapple will be more flavorful.
Chill your cucumber before slicing for an extra crisp and refreshing bite.
Don’t overdress the salad; start with less dressing and add more if needed to maintain the fresh, crisp texture.
For a bit of heat, add thinly sliced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

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What’s the secret to perfect Pineapple Cucumber Salad?

The real secret to a perfect juicy pineapple cucumber salad is the balance of sweet and tangy. Using fresh, ripe pineapple and a bright lime dressing ensures that delightful contrast. It’s what makes this salad truly sing. For more recipe inspiration, check out our recipes.

Can I make Pineapple Cucumber Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this cucumber and pineapple salad a few hours ahead. Combine the pineapple and cucumber, but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent sogginess. This is similar to how you might prepare components for a turkey meatloaf recipe ahead of time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pineapple Cucumber Salad?

A common pitfall is using canned pineapple, which can be too mushy. Always opt for fresh! Also, avoid overmixing, which can bruise the delicate ingredients. Ensure your cucumber is crisp. If you’re looking for other crisp side dishes, consider our crispy roasted cauliflower.

Best Ways to Serve Pineapple Cucumber Salad

This versatile pineapple cucumber salad is fantastic served chilled as a light and refreshing side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a tropical flair to any meal. For a truly satisfying summer spread, consider serving it alongside barbecue ribs or pulled pork. It also makes a wonderful accompaniment to spicy dishes, helping to cool the palate. As a simple yet flavorful pineapple and cucumber side dish, it’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a casual weeknight dinner. I love it with some simple grilled shrimp! You might also enjoy our Korean BBQ meatballs.

Nutrition Facts for Pineapple Cucumber Salad

This refreshing salad is as light as it is delicious. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional highlights per serving of our healthy pineapple cucumber salad:

Calories: 65
Fat: 0.3g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can consult resources on losing weight.

How to Store and Reheat Pineapple Cucumber Salad

This glorious pineapple cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can absolutely store leftovers! First, let the salad cool completely. Then, transfer any remaining cucumber and pineapple salad to an airtight container. Properly stored in the refrigerator, it should keep well for about 3 to 4 days. While it’s not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the cucumber can become watery upon thawing, it’s perfect for making ahead for weekday lunches. For reheating, simply bring the chilled salad to room temperature before serving, as no cooking is involved. You might also find our boat dip rotel ranch dip useful for gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Cucumber Salad

What’s the best way to cut the pineapple and cucumber for this salad?

For this easy pineapple cucumber salad recipe, I like to dice the pineapple into bite-sized cubes, about half an inch. For the cucumber, slicing it into thin rounds or half-moons works beautifully. The key is consistency so everything blends well when you toss it.

Can I add other fruits or vegetables to this pineapple cucumber salad?

Absolutely! This is a wonderfully adaptable salad. You can add diced bell peppers for crunch and color, or even some sweet corn. For a bit more protein and healthy fats, consider adding avocado. It’s amazing how many ways you can customize this refreshing pineapple cucumber salad. If you’re interested in low-carb options, you might explore keto cottage cheese bread.

How do I make pineapple cucumber salad taste more like a Thai pineapple cucumber salad?

To give your pineapple cucumber salad a Thai twist, add some finely chopped jalapeño or red chili flakes for a bit of heat, a splash of fish sauce to the dressing for umami, and perhaps some chopped peanuts for crunch. It’s a fantastic way to explore different flavor profiles.

Is there a specific pineapple cucumber salad dressing that works best?

The simple lime-based dressing in this recipe is fantastic because it’s light and complements the fruit and vegetable flavors without overpowering them. However, you could also try a light vinaigrette with a hint of ginger or even a creamy yogurt-based dressing for a different texture.

Variations of Pineapple Cucumber Salad You Can Try

This refreshing pineapple cucumber salad is so adaptable, you can easily switch things up to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Spicy Pineapple Cucumber Salad: For those who love a kick, add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. This transforms it into a vibrant spicy pineapple cucumber salad that’s perfect for a summer barbecue.
Thai Pineapple Cucumber Salad: Elevate your salad with flavors inspired by Thailand. Add a tablespoon of fish sauce to the dressing for umami, some chopped fresh mint, and a sprinkle of toasted peanuts for crunch to create a delightful Thai pineapple cucumber salad.
Creamy Avocado Pineapple Cucumber Salad: For a richer, more satisfying version, add about half a diced avocado to the salad just before serving. It adds a wonderful creaminess and healthy fats.
Tropical Fruit Medley: Swap half the pineapple for diced mango or chunks of watermelon for an even more tropical feel. This variation offers a delightful mix of sweet and juicy flavors perfect for a warm day.