Pineapple Cucumber Salad

Description

Crunchy cucumber, sweet pineapple, and a zingy lime dressing – if this flavor combo could go to a place it would be to tropical islands and back. This isn’t just another salad recipe: it’s a tasty food metaphor for summer. This salad is healthy without being preachy. Simple, bright, and bursting with flavor. And, if you think salads are boring and “healthy food” is bland and worthy only for Instagram – this dish will prove you otherwise for good.

The pineapple cucumber salad is a masterclass in minimalism, taking a handful of simple, natural ingredients and crafting a truly incredible dish. It’s perfect for your summer picnics and family lunch, an easy make-ahead workday lunch, or a side dish to serve for dinner. Only 15 minutes from start to finish. Does it sound good already? Get ready for even more reasons to try it.

The photo shows all ingredients laid out on a wooden board, ready for prep. Natural light highlights the vivid green of cucumbers and yellow pineapple. It’s a clean, fresh visual that sets the tone for a healthy meal.

Introduction to the Recipe

Hello, readers! I am a professional food blogger and health-focused recipe developer. I am always on the lookout for new and tasty recipes that pack a flavorful punch without using complicated techniques or fancy kitchen equipment. Salads, in general, are a category of foods that are a million times more elegant than they are fussy. Add a dash of pineapple’s exoticism, and refreshing cucumber – and you’ve got yourself a seasonal winner. This pineapple cucumber salad is an easy recipe for everyone, not just salad lovers and fans of healthy food. The flavors are simple, yet complex – and it comes together in a flash.

Pineapple cucumber salad is one of the best “converts other people into salad lovers” salads in my personal repertoire. Pineapple’s natural sweetness tames lime’s acidity and red onion’s bite, creating a perfect balance of flavor contrasts. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both impressive and simple, look no further. This pineapple cucumber salad recipe fits the bill perfectly.

In this post, I will share the full recipe with instructions, plus my personal tips and tricks to take the dish to the next level, highlight important things to pay attention to and how to present the salad to make it truly shine. If you’re ready to be wowed by a simple summer salad – let’s dive in!

Hands are gently tossing a colorful mix of pineapple, cucumber, red onion, and herbs. The setting feels homey and real, like you’re mid-prep in a sunny kitchen. It gives the viewer a sense of action and freshness.

Ingredients List

• 2 fresh cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ chili pepper (optional), finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
• Pinch of sea salt
• Pinch of freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Slice cucumbers, pineapple, red onion and chili pepper. Transfer to a large bowl.
2. Add chopped cilantro or parsley.
3. In a separate small bowl, mix together lime zest and juice, honey and seasoning.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently.
5. Refrigerate for 15 minutes for the flavors to develop.
6. Optional: before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and/or add a few mint leaves on top.

My Tips

Add thinly sliced radish or baby carrots for extra crunch.

Halved red grapes are a perfect addition to pineapple for a wine sweet contrast.

For a more filling option, you can add some cooked quinoa or couscous to make it a full meal.

The final dish sits beautifully plated in a rustic ceramic bowl. Lime wedges and green herbs add a pop of color and zest. It looks light, summery, and inviting—perfect for sharing.

Summary

Pineapple cucumber salad is the embodiment of a summer salad. Vibrant, bright, and easy to make. Bursting with flavor and low on culinary drama. You don’t need many fancy techniques and rare ingredients to make it. All you need is a bit of curiosity and 15 minutes of your time. Let this salad teach you that healthy food can be just as exciting as it is delicious.

Don’t be shy – be creative, give the dish your own spin, change up the dressing, serve it on toast, or with grilled halloumi. And tag me on Instagram: @YourHandle with the hashtag #EasyChickenSalad and let me know what you come up with! And if you liked this recipe, don’t forget to check out:

Thai Cucumber Salad with peanuts

Tomato Cucumber Salad with feta cheese

Cucumber Cabbage Slaw for burgers and BBQs

FAQ

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, you can, but I find fresh pineapple tastes so much better and is better for this salad. If you can only get canned pineapple, try to find an unsweetened one and make sure to drain it very well.

How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?

The salad is best eaten on the same day you make it, but it can keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days if stored in an air-tight container.

Is this a salad for kids?

Yes! A salad is a healthy and easy recipe to make for kids. The only thing you might want to change is to leave out the chili pepper, and reduce the amount of onion to make the dish milder.