Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad – Refreshing & Healthy Recipe

Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad is the perfect recipe for hot summer days when you crave something fresh, light, and flavorful. This vibrant salad blends the crispness of cucumbers with the creamy goodness of avocados, all coated in a zesty cilantro-lime dressing. It’s a healthy, quick, and satisfying dish that’s ideal for both family meals and outdoor gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad

This Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 10–15 minutes from start to finish. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and hearty chickpeas adds a delightful mix of textures that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, the homemade cilantro-lime dressing adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish for your summer barbecue or a light, healthy lunch, this recipe has got you covered. It’s also a great option for anyone following vegan or gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

• Cucumber: Adds crunch and freshness, perfect for a light and crisp salad.
• Tomatoes: Grape or cherry tomatoes provide a juicy burst of flavor, balancing the other ingredients.
• Avocado: Brings a creamy texture that complements the tangy dressing.
• Red Onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Chickpeas: These legumes provide a protein-packed boost to make the salad more filling.
• Cilantro Lime Dressing: This zesty dressing made with olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, Dijon mustard, and a touch of maple syrup ties everything together with a tangy, refreshing kick.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Chickpeas: If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, white beans make a great substitute, adding similar texture and protein.
• Tomatoes: You can swap grape or cherry tomatoes for diced regular tomatoes if preferred.
• Avocado: If you’re avoiding avocado, try adding a handful of olives for creaminess or even a dollop of hummus.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: Add olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
2. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, diced avocados, red onion, and chickpeas.
3. Combine: Pour the cilantro-lime dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated in the dressing.
4. Serve: Garnish with extra cilantro if desired, then serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy. This salad can be served as a side dish, stuffed into a pita for lunch, or enjoyed on its own.

Tips & Tricks

• Avoid Soggy Cucumbers: If you want the cucumbers to remain crisp, serve the salad immediately after mixing. The longer it sits, the softer the cucumbers become.
• Extra Dressing: The dressing recipe yields extra, so feel free to use it generously or save it for later. It’s a great addition to other salads or as a dip for chips.
• Customize the Dressing: Adjust the lime and maple syrup quantities to fit your taste. If you prefer more tang, add extra lime juice, or for sweetness, increase the maple syrup.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a larger summer spread. If you’re looking to make it a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. For a spicy twist, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño into the mix.

If you’re planning to serve this salad later, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store the dressing separately. When ready to serve, simply toss everything together.

Seasonal and Health Benefits

This Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad is not only refreshing but also packed with health benefits. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while avocados provide heart-healthy fats. The cilantro-lime dressing is a rich source of antioxidants, making this dish not only a seasonal favorite but also a great addition to any healthy eating plan.

The fresh, crisp ingredients of this salad make it the ideal choice for hot summer days, offering a burst of flavor and plenty of nutrients. Whether you’re attending a potluck, looking for a quick weeknight side dish, or preparing a meal prep option for the week ahead, this salad checks all the boxes.

Conclusion

The Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad with Avocado is the epitome of refreshing summer dishes. Its vibrant colors, healthy ingredients, and burst of tangy flavor make it an instant favorite for anyone looking for a light, satisfying meal or side dish. Whether you serve it as a cooling snack, a side to grilled meats, or a filling lunch in a pita, this salad is versatile and easy to prepare. Plus, with its nutrient-packed ingredients like cucumbers, chickpeas, and avocado, it’s a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also nourish your body.

Don’t forget to customize the dressing and ingredients based on your preferences, and enjoy the added bonus of extra dressing that can be used for other dishes. This is one recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: This creamy pasta dish features tender shrimp tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce, making it a perfect complement to the Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad. The creamy texture and zesty flavors will pair beautifully with the fresh and crisp elements of the salad.
• Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki: If you’re craving Mediterranean flavors, these turkey meatballs paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce make a great match. Their light and fresh profile balances the robust cilantro-lime flavors of the salad.
• Spinach and Feta Quesadillas: These spinach and feta quesadillas offer a savory, cheese-filled contrast to the tangy, fresh salad. The crispy quesadillas are a satisfying addition to the salad for a more substantial meal.

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