Fresh Cucumber Salsa Recipe

As I tossed together fresh cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty lime, I couldn’t help but marvel at how this vibrant salsa transformed my kitchen into a summer fiesta, bursting with crisp flavors and just the right amount of kick.

What I enjoy most about my fresh cucumber salsa is how revitalizing it is, packed as it is with lustrous cucumbers and bright cherry tomatoes. The not-so-secret spicy kick from the jalapeño, working in concert with the zesty lime juice, pushes the flavors into an irresistible territory.

Meanwhile, the red onion and cilantro (heaps of both, please!) take the flavor and nutrition of this salsa to another level. And it’s super refreshing!

I think you’ll like it.

Ingredients

• Cucumbers: Low in calories, cucumbers are hydrating and provide a refreshing crunch, rich in antioxidants.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add a burst of color and natural sweetness, packed with vitamin C and lycopene.
• Red Onion: Gives a mild, sweet, and sharp flavor while providing vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Jalapeño Pepper: Brings a touch of heat; contains capsaicin which may boost metabolism.
• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a citrusy and bright flavor, known for aiding digestion and detoxification.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 large cucumbers, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

How to Make this

1. Wash the following ingredients thoroughly under cold water: cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper.

2. If you want, you can peel the cucumbers. Then dice the cucumbers into small, even cubes. This ensures the consistency of the salsa.

3. Cut the cherry tomatoes into quarters, making sure they are roughly the same size as the cucumber pieces.

4. Chop the red onion very finely, distributing it evenly throughout the salsa.

5. Mince and seed the jalapeño pepper, varying the amount you use according to how much heat you want to have. This recipe can be made with or without heat.

6. Chop fresh cilantro, concentrating on the leaves for a more vibrant flavor, and leave out any thick stems.

7. Put all the chopped components in a big mixing bowl and stir them around to make sure the flavors are distributed evenly. That is the essence of this big chop salad. It’s both a ritual and a recipe.

8. Extract the juice from a lime and blend it into the mix. This adds some much-needed acidity and freshness.

9. Add salt and black pepper to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as preferred. Seasoning adds flavor and makes the dish taste more like itself. It’s what takes food from being bland (not in a bad way) to having actual, discernible flavor. Salt and pepper are, in many ways, the simplest forms of seasoning you can use.

10. Toss all ingredients together gently to incorporate fully and to serve immediately. If you wish to serve the dish later, it can be refrigerated for up to an hour. It allows the flavors to meld more with the extra time.

Equipment Needed

1. Colander or strainer
2. Vegetable peeler (optional)
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Paring knife (optional for jalapeño)
6. Mixing bowl
7. Citrus juicer or reamer
8. Measuring cups and spoons (for juice and seasoning)
9. Mixing spoon or spatula

FAQ

• Can I use English cucumbers instead of regular ones?Yes, English cucumbers are a wonderful alternative; they boast a more delicate skin and an insignificant number of seeds.
• How can I make the salsa less spicy?To lessen the heat, leave out the seeds of the jalapeño or use just half of the pepper.
• Is there an alternative to cilantro?If you are not a cilantro fan, use parsley or mint instead for a flavor profile that is just as good.
• How long will the salsa stay fresh?Housed in an airtight container in the fridge, it ought to last 2-3 days.
• Can this be made ahead of time?Indeed, you can prepare it several hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld, but do not add the lime juice until just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp.
• What can I serve with this salsa?Tortilla chips, grilled meats, fish, or tacos are good companions for this.

Fresh Cucumber Salsa Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Cherry tomatoes: Substitute with grape tomatoes, diced Roma tomatoes, or heirloom tomatoes for a different taste.
Substitute for red onion: yellow onion, green onions, or shallots – all are milder.
Substitute serrano peppers for more heat, or omit jalapeño pepper for a milder salsa. For smoky flavor, use chipotle peppers in adobo.
Cilantro: If you like different herbs more, or if you think cilantro tastes funny, substitute it with fresh parsley or basil.
Substitute lime juice with lemon juice if limes are unavailable. It will give you just a different enough flavor to still enjoy whatever it is you are drinking.

Pro Tips

1. Consider adding a splash of extra virgin olive oil for a richer texture and enhanced flavor. It helps tie the ingredients together and can add a lovely gloss to the salsa.

2. For an added layer of flavor, lightly grill or roast the jalapeño pepper before mincing it. This will impart a smoky taste that can elevate the entire dish.

3. Include a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika if you desire a subtle depth of flavor that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

4. To ensure the red onion is not overpowering, soak the chopped pieces in cold water with a splash of vinegar for 10 minutes before adding them to the mix. This will mellow the sharpness of the onion.

5. If you prefer a sweeter touch to balance the acidity, add a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey to the lime juice before mixing it into the salsa. This can help round out the flavors.