Name: Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups strawberries, hulled and diced; 3 cups watermelon, cubed and seeded; 1 English cucumber, chopped; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper, to taste

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory flavors, especially when they come together in a light, refreshing salad that practically screams summertime. This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is everything you want in a warm-weather dish: juicy, vibrant, crisp, and utterly refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic, or just need something fresh to perk up a weekday lunch, this recipe delivers with minimal effort and maximum payoff.

The first time I tried this combination, it was a hot July afternoon and I had a mix of garden-fresh cucumbers and a container of strawberries begging to be used. Instead of reaching for the usual greens, I chopped them up, tossed in some red onion for contrast, and added a splash of lime and olive oil. The result? A crisp, tangy, sweet, and herby bowl of happiness that disappeared almost instantly.

What makes this Cucumber strawberry salad so special is how the ingredients complement each other. The strawberries and watermelon bring juicy sweetness, the cucumber adds cool crunch, and the red onion gives it a slight sharpness that balances the flavors perfectly. A sprinkle of fresh mint ties it all together, making each bite a burst of freshness. And don’t worry—if you’ve never mixed fruit and vegetables in a salad before, this one will win you over in one spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to add this Cucumber strawberry salad to your regular rotation. For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and almost no prep time, you can have this ready in under 15 minutes. That makes it perfect for those hectic weekdays when dinner needs to happen fast.

Secondly, it’s absolutely delicious. The sweet strawberries and watermelon bring out the subtle flavors of the cucumber, while the red onion adds just the right amount of bite. Tossed in a simple dressing of olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper, this salad lets the natural flavors shine through. Every ingredient plays a role, and together they create something truly memorable.

This salad is also endlessly customizable. Want to add a little creamy tang? Toss in some crumbled feta or soft mozzarella. Looking for more texture? A handful of chopped nuts or seeds will do the trick. Craving a spicy kick? Thinly sliced jalapeños can wake it right up. It’s a flexible base that you can tweak to suit your preferences or whatever you have in the fridge.

Lastly, it’s family-friendly and great for gatherings. Kids love the sweetness of the fruit, and adults appreciate the balance and freshness. Whether served alongside grilled chicken, tucked into a lunchbox, or enjoyed straight from the bowl with a fork, it’s always a hit.

Health Benefits

Beyond its bright flavors and stunning appearance, this Cucumber strawberry salad packs a healthy punch. It’s full of nutrient-dense, hydrating ingredients that make you feel good from the inside out.

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, which support immune function and digestion. Watermelon, besides being deliciously juicy, is loaded with hydration-promoting water and contains antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health.

Cucumber is low in calories but high in water content, making it ideal for hydration and digestion. It also contains vitamin K, which supports bone health. Red onion adds flavor and brings along a dose of quercetin, a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

Mint leaves are not only refreshing, but they also aid in digestion and have a calming effect on the stomach. And of course, olive oil provides healthy fats that help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the other ingredients.

Together, these components create a salad that’s not just tasty, but also incredibly nourishing and light—perfect for hot days or as a part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Servings: Serves 4 to 6
Calories per Serving: Approximately 120
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 11g

Ingredients List

3 cups strawberries, hulled and diced – Brings juicy sweetness and a soft texture.
3 cups watermelon, seeded and cubed – Adds hydration and a bright, fresh taste.
1 English cucumber, chopped – Offers crispness and balances the sweetness.
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced – Gives a sharp contrast that elevates the other flavors.
Fresh mint leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup) – Adds a cooling, herbaceous note.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Provides richness and binds the dressing.
Juice of 1 lime – Brightens the entire dish with zesty acidity.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances and balances all the flavors.

Optional Add-Ins:

Crumbled feta or mozzarella for creaminess.
A few black olives for a briny touch.
Thin slices of jalapeño for heat.
Sliced fennel bulb for a slight anise note.
Toss in blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges for a fruit-forward twist.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prep the Ingredients
Start by thoroughly washing all your produce. Hull and dice the strawberries into bite-sized pieces. Remove seeds from the watermelon if needed, then cube it. Chop the cucumber into similar-sized chunks. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the fresh mint leaves.
Combine the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the strawberries, watermelon, cucumber, and red onion. Toss gently to combine, making sure not to mash the fruit.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking—you may want a touch more lime if you love tartness.
Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the mixed ingredients and gently toss again until everything is evenly coated. Try to use a wide, shallow bowl so the delicate ingredients don’t get crushed.
Add the Mint
Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped mint over the top. Give the salad one last gentle toss. The mint adds a final touch of brightness that really makes the flavors pop.
Optional Add-Ins
Now’s the time to customize if you’d like. Add cheese, nuts, or more fruit, depending on your mood or what’s in your fridge. These mix-ins can turn a side dish into a full meal or make the salad feel more indulgent.
Chill or Serve Immediately
This salad is best served fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours if needed. The flavors will mingle a bit more as it rests, although the texture of the fruit may soften slightly over time.

How to Serve

This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is as versatile as it is vibrant. Here are a few of our favorite ways to serve it:

Spoon it into small bowls as a light appetizer or side dish.
Serve it over a bed of arugula or baby spinach for added greens.
Pair it with grilled chicken, beef kebabs, or turkey burgers for a fresh side.
Scoop it onto toasted country bread as a refreshing bruschetta.
Add a handful of quinoa or couscous to turn it into a light summer lunch.

Pairing Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and beverages. Here are some pairing ideas to round out your meal:

Main Dishes:

Grilled chicken skewers or shawarma-style chicken
Chargrilled steak or beef kofta
Roasted salmon or white fish with citrus glaze
Herb-marinated grilled tofu for a vegetarian option

Sides:

Lemon herb rice or pilaf
Crispy roasted potatoes
Pita bread with hummus or baba ganoush

Beverages:

Chilled lemonade or lime soda
Mint iced tea or cucumber-infused water
Sparkling water with fresh berries

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store it:

Storage:
Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, though the texture of the fruit will soften over time.

Freezing:
Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh fruit and cucumber lose their texture when thawed.

Reheating:
No reheating needed! Serve it cold or let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes if chilled.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using overripe fruit – While ripe strawberries and watermelon are great, overly soft ones can make the salad mushy.
Skipping the onion – The red onion adds essential balance to the sweetness; don’t leave it out unless absolutely necessary.
Adding dressing too early – If you dress the salad too far in advance, the fruits may release excess juice and become watery.
Overmixing – Be gentle when tossing the ingredients to keep everything intact.
Not seasoning enough – A little salt goes a long way in bringing out the flavors. Taste and adjust before serving.

Pro Tips

Chill your ingredients before mixing for an extra refreshing bite, especially on hot days.
Use seedless watermelon to save time and effort when prepping.
Slice red onions thinly to avoid overpowering the salad.
Mix the dressing separately so you can adjust flavors before committing to the full bowl.
Prep ahead by chopping everything (except the mint) a few hours in advance. Store the components separately and mix right before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen fruit for this salad?
It’s best to use fresh fruit. Frozen strawberries or watermelon tend to become mushy when thawed and won’t provide the same crisp texture.

What kind of cucumber should I use?
English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. However, regular cucumbers work too—just peel and de-seed them.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Add the mint and toss everything together just before eating.

Is this salad kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The sweet fruit makes it appealing to kids, and the onion can be easily omitted or reduced if your little ones are sensitive to it.

What’s a good substitute for mint?
If you’re not a fan of mint, try fresh basil for a different herbaceous note. Cilantro could also work, though it changes the flavor profile.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely. Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa for a more filling version of this salad.

Does this salad need a sweetener in the dressing?
Not at all. The natural sweetness from the fruit is more than enough to balance the tangy lime and savory onion.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
Add salt sparingly and only dress the salad just before serving. This helps prevent the fruit from releasing too much juice too soon.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free and doesn’t require any modifications.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?
Yes, lemon juice works in place of lime, though lime provides a more tropical, zesty flavor.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is everything you want in a summer dish—bright, juicy, refreshing, and so simple to pull together. With just a few ingredients and a couple of minutes, you can have a show-stopping side that complements any meal or stands proudly on its own. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, planning a sunny weekend picnic, or just craving something fresh, this salad is your go-to.

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know your favorite add-ins or what you served it with. Better yet, snap a photo and tag me online—I’m always excited to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!