Salad

Cucumber and Cilantro Salad

This healthy cucumber and cilantro salad is easy to make, low carb, and low calorie. It’s a perfect fresh salad for summer barbeques.

To recipe
cucumber and cilantro salad
Recipe insights & TIPS
cucumber and cilantro salad in a bowl

On a warm summer afternoon, when you’re craving something cool, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, you need to try this cilantro and cucumber salad. The cucumber, crisp and juicy, paired with the crunch of red and yellow peppers, is the perfect combination. Add in some cilantro, the sassy cousin of parsley, plus a simple tangy dressing of olive oil and lime, and you’ve got a fresh and delicious salad that pairs with just about anything. 

I’m all about quick and easy meals, especially in the summer when the kitchen can end up feeling like a sauna. It takes less than 20 minutes to whip up, making it a great option for a last-minute picnic contribution. And if you have leftover chicken or shrimp - toss it in! You can basically throw any veggies you have on hand into the recipe, so it's a great way to use up anything sitting in your crisper. Alternatively, hit your local farmers market to see what’s in season and add it to the mix. 
Another great thing about this salad is that it stores well in the fridge as we scoop out the seeds of the cucumber ahead of time, so the salad doesn’t turn watery when it sits, meaning you can make it ahead of time. 

cucumber and cilantro salad

FAQs

How do I store cucumber and cilantro salad?

Keep it cool and covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

What can I serve with cucumber and cilantro salad?

This salad shines alongside grilled fish, tacos, or even just a big stack of sandwiches. It's a versatile friend who plays well with everyone.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just prep all the veggies and store them separately. The magic happens when the dressing meets the cucumbers, so hold off on that until you're ready to serve.

Will the cucumbers turn the salad watery?

Cucumbers can be drama queens when it comes to water, but fear not! I like to scoop out the seeds before chopping, as they're the main culprits. 

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Go for it! Grilled chicken is a classic choice, but don't be shy with shrimp, scallops, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian twist.

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Recipe

This fresh-tasting Cucumber and Cilantro Salad is perfect for an easy side dish, or add a protein and call it dinner! With almost no calories and full of fresh vegetables, this is one of my favorite salads for summer.

Course:
Salad
COOKing TIME:
10 minutes
Total TIME:
20 minutes
CUISINE:
American
PREP TIME:
10 minutes
SERVINGS:
4

Ingredients

  • 2 large cucumbers 
  • 3/4 cup fresh, finely chopped cilantro
  • 1 red bell pepper - diced
  • 1 yellow pepper - diced
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the dressing

  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 1 pinch cracked black pepper

Ingredient Swaps

  • No swaps are necessary, as this recipe is as clean as it gets! We recommend locally sourcing your veggies whenever possible. 
  • But feel free to add some extra veggies like carrots or celery to bulk up the nutrients.

Instructions

  1. Peel the cucumbers and slice off the ends.
  2. Cut each cucumber in half.
  3. Using the tip of a small spoon, carefully scrape out the seeds from each half of the cucumber.
  4. Dice up the seeded cucumber and add to a bowl.
  5. Dice up your red and yellow pepper, and add that to the bowl. 
  6. Add the chopped cilantro, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  7. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  8. Add the dressing to the cucumber mixture and toss gently, making sure everything is evenly coated.
  9. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter and serve immediately, or store covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
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