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Refreshing Cucumber Salsa Recipe - Crisp, Cool, and Zesty

Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • English cucumbers (2 medium) or Persian cucumbers (5–6 small)
  • Cherry tomatoes (1 cup), halved or quartered
  • Red onion (1/3 cup), finely diced
  • Jalapeño (1–2), seeded and minced (use serrano for more heat)
  • Fresh cilantro (1/3 cup), chopped (or parsley if you prefer)
  • Lime (2), juiced and zested
  • Garlic (1 small clove), finely grated or minced
  • Extra-virgin olive oil (1–2 tablespoons)
  • Ground cumin (1/4 teaspoon)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: diced avocado, chopped mango or pineapple, diced bell pepper, crumbled feta, or a splash of rice vinegar

Method
 

  1. Prep the cucumbers. If using English cucumbers, keep the skin on for color and crunch. If using standard cucumbers, peel thick skin and scrape out seeds to avoid excess water. Dice into small, even pieces for better scooping.
  2. Salt and drain (optional but helpful). Toss the diced cucumbers with a pinch of salt and let sit in a colander for 10 minutes. This draws out extra moisture and keeps your salsa from getting watery.
  3. Chop the rest. Halve or quarter cherry tomatoes, finely dice the red onion, and mince the jalapeño. For less heat, remove ribs and seeds; for more heat, keep some in.
  4. Make the dressing. In a large bowl, whisk lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cumin, garlic, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of pepper until combined.
  5. Combine. Pat the cucumbers dry with a clean towel. Add them to the bowl along with tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Toss gently to coat.
  6. Taste and adjust. Add more lime for brightness, olive oil for richness, or salt for balance. If you like a touch of sweetness, a tiny drizzle of honey can round out the acidity.
  7. Rest briefly. Let the salsa sit for 10–15 minutes so the flavors meld. This short rest makes a noticeable difference.
  8. Optional upgrade. Fold in avocado right before serving for creaminess, or add mango/pineapple for a sweet-and-spicy twist. If using feta, sprinkle it on top at the end.
  9. Serve. Pair with tortilla chips, top grilled chicken or fish, spoon over tacos, or serve alongside grain bowls and salads.