Pineapple Cucumber Salad Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Side Dish

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Pineapple Cucumber Salad Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Side Dish

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for a side dish that’s both light and bursting with flavour, especially during the hot Indian summers. This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is exactly that – a vibrant, refreshing mix that’s super easy to whip up. I first made this for a family picnic and it was gone in minutes! It’s become a regular in my kitchen ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and a little bit spicy. It’s incredibly quick to prepare – honestly, more assembly than actual cooking! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up ripe pineapples and those cucumbers from your local sabzi mandi. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a welcome change from heavier dishes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful salad:

• 1 cup pineapple, chopped (about 150g)
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 English cucumber, diced
• 1 lime juice (about 30ml)
• 0.25 tsp paprika (about 1g)
• 0.5 tsp sugar (about 2.5g)
• Cilantro, to taste (about 1 tbsp chopped)
• Mint leaves, to taste (about 1 tbsp chopped)
• Salt, to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Getting these right makes all the difference.

Pineapple: Choosing the Right Sweetness & Ripeness

A ripe pineapple is key. Look for one that smells sweet at the base and yields slightly to gentle pressure. Don’t be afraid to give it a little sniff! If it’s not quite ripe, leaving it upside down for a day can help concentrate the sweetness.

Red Onion: Varieties & Preparation for Mildness

Red onions can be a bit strong, so soaking the sliced onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes helps mellow out the flavour. I usually use a regular red onion, but you can experiment with shallots for a milder taste.

English Cucumber: Benefits & Substitutions

I love English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. You don’t even need to peel them! If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work just fine – just peel and remove the seeds.

Lime Juice: Fresh vs. Bottled & Regional Lime Varieties

Fresh lime juice is always best. The flavour is so much brighter! In India, we have so many wonderful lime varieties – from the common Kagzi lime to the sweeter Nimbu. Feel free to use whichever you prefer. Bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but it won’t have the same zing.

Paprika: Exploring Different Types (Kashmiri, Regular)

Paprika adds a lovely colour and subtle flavour. Kashmiri paprika is a fantastic choice for a vibrant red hue and mild heat. Regular paprika works well too, but the colour might be a little less intense.

Cilantro & Mint: Freshness & Flavor Profiles

Fresh cilantro and mint are essential for that authentic Indian flavour. Don’t skimp on these! They add a beautiful freshness that really elevates the salad.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously simple.

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped pineapple, thinly sliced red onion, and diced cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, paprika, sugar, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves. Add salt to taste. Give it a good whisk until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix!
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Expert Tips

• For extra flavour, lightly toast the paprika in a dry pan for a minute before adding it to the dressing.
• Don’t add the salt to the dressing until just before tossing the salad. Salt can draw out moisture from the cucumber and pineapple.
• If you’re short on time, you can skip the soaking step for the red onion, but it will have a stronger flavour.

Variations

This salad is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check your sugar source if you’re very strict.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Green Chilies)

My friend Priya loves a bit of heat, so she always adds a finely chopped green chili to the dressing. It gives it a lovely kick! Start with a small chili and adjust to your preference.

Festival Adaptation (Summer Celebrations)

During summer festivals, I sometimes add a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder to the dressing for a more festive flavour. It’s delicious!

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Yes! This salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

This Pineapple Cucumber Salad is perfect as a side dish with grilled fish, chicken, or even a simple dal-chawal. It’s also fantastic with Indian snacks like samosas or pakoras. I love taking it to potlucks – it’s always a hit!

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cucumber and pineapple can release water over time.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What is the best way to cut pineapple for this salad?

I like to cut the pineapple into bite-sized chunks. First, cut off the top and bottom, then remove the skin. Cut into quarters lengthwise and remove the core. Then, dice the flesh into roughly 1cm pieces.

Can I make this salad ahead of time? If so, how long will it stay fresh?

You can definitely make it ahead! It’s best to assemble it a few hours before serving to allow the flavours to meld. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the texture might change slightly.

What can I substitute for cilantro or mint if I don’t like them?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro or mint, you can try using parsley or basil. The flavour won’t be quite the same, but it will still be delicious.

Is this salad suitable for a potluck or picnic?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for potlucks and picnics. Just keep it chilled until serving.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the salad?

Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. You can also add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a different flavour.

Can I add other fruits or vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Mango, pomegranate seeds, or even some finely chopped bell peppers would be lovely additions. Feel free to get creative!

Enjoy this refreshing salad, and let me know what you think in the comments below! Happy cooking!