When the summer heat kicks in, I always find myself reaching for this Cucumber Strawberry Salad—it's a dish I’ve made on repeat for years, and it never fails to brighten the table. The crisp bite of fresh cucumbers paired with sweet, juicy strawberries makes every forkful feel like a burst of sunshine. This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is my go-to when I need something effortless yet impressive—no stove, no stress, just simple ingredients that shine.
Whether I’m setting up for a relaxed backyard cookout or tossing together a quick lunch on a hot afternoon, this Cucumber Strawberry Salad always delivers that perfect mix of sweet, savory, and tangy. It’s light, refreshing, and honestly one of those recipes that just feels like summer in a bowl.
Why This Cucumber and Strawberry Salad is a Summer Must-Have
Nothing says summer quite like this Cucumber Strawberry Salad—a dish I’ve come to rely on every time the weather warms up and fresh produce is at its best. The juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries and the crisp, cooling crunch of cucumbers come together so naturally, with a sprinkle of fresh mint that lifts each bite with bright, garden-fresh flavor.
This Cucumber Strawberry Salad isn’t just refreshing—it’s one of those rare recipes that checks all the boxes: it’s gluten-free, vegetarian, incredibly versatile, and a total stunner on the table. I’ve served it alongside grilled chicken, tucked it into picnic baskets, and even enjoyed it solo as a light lunch. The contrast of textures and vibrant colors makes this Cucumber Strawberry Salad not only a crowd favorite but one that truly celebrates the beauty of summer simplicity.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
- English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Baby spinach or arugula (optional for extra greens)
For the Honey Lime Vinaigrette:
- Olive oil
- Fresh lime juice
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:
- Fresh strawberries: Choose ripe but firm berries for the best texture. Frozen strawberries won't work well as they become too soft when thawed.
- Cucumbers: English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin. If using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them and removing seeds.
- Feta cheese: For a dairy-free version, substitute with avocado chunks or omit entirely. Goat cheese also works beautifully.
- Mint leaves: Fresh basil can be substituted if mint isn't available, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
- Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for a vegan version.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prepare All Fresh Ingredients
- Wash and dry your cucumbers and strawberries thoroughly under cold running water.
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, cut the cucumbers into thin, even slices – about ⅛ inch thick works perfectly. The key to a great Cucumber Strawberry Salad is consistent slicing, which ensures even flavor distribution and an appealing presentation.
- Hull the fresh strawberries by removing the green tops, then slice them into quarters or thin slices, depending on your preference. Larger strawberries should be cut into smaller pieces to match the cucumber size for balanced bites.
- If you're using red onion, slice it paper-thin using a sharp knife or mandoline. For a milder flavor, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. This step removes some of the onion's bite while maintaining its crisp texture.
Make the Honey Lime Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lime juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.
- Whisk all ingredients together until well combined and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This citrus dressing is what ties all the flavors together in this strawberry cucumber salad.
- Set the dressing aside while you assemble the salad components.
Assemble the Salad Base
- In a large serving bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, strawberries, and red onion (if using).
- Add the baby spinach or arugula if you want extra greens for more substance.
- Drizzle the honey lime vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly, being careful not to break the delicate strawberries.
Add Final Touches and Serve Your Cucumber Strawberry Salad
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the salad.
- Add the chopped fresh mint leaves for that aromatic finish.
- Give the salad one final, gentle toss to distribute the cheese and herbs throughout.
- For the best flavor, let the cucumber and strawberry salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dressing to penetrate the ingredients.
- Step 1: Prepare All Fresh Ingredients
Slice cucumbers, strawberries, and optional onions to prepare the fresh base of the salad.
- Step 2: Make the Honey Lime Vinaigrette
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, and mustard for a zesty dressing.
- Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base
Combine all ingredients and gently toss with the honey lime vinaigrette.
- Step 4: Add Final Touches and Serve Your Cucumber Strawberry Salad
Finished cucumber strawberry salad with feta and mint on top.
Hints and Tips
Here's a game-changing tip for the perfect cucumber strawberry salad: salt your cucumber slices lightly and let them sit for 10 minutes before assembling the salad. This draws out excess moisture, preventing your salad from becoming watery while concentrating the cucumber's flavor. Just pat them dry with paper towels before adding to the salad.
Another pro tip is to add the feta cheese and mint just before serving to maintain their fresh texture and vibrant color.
Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions
This strawberry cucumber salad is naturally low in calories but high in nutrients, making it perfect for those following healthy eating plans. Cucumbers provide hydration and contain antioxidants, while strawberries deliver vitamin C and fiber. The addition of feta cheese adds protein and calcium, making this more than just a typical fruit salad.
This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or pork. It's also excellent alongside barbecue dishes, sandwiches, or as part of a mezze platter. For a complete meal, serve it over quinoa or with crusty bread. The refreshing nature of this cucumber salad makes it an ideal palate cleanser between heavier courses.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Mediterranean Twist
Add Kalamata olives and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a Mediterranean-inspired version of this strawberry and cucumber salad.
Tropical Variation
Substitute the strawberries with diced mango and add toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist on the classic cucumber salad.
Protein-Packed Version
Add grilled shrimp or chicken to transform this side dish into a complete meal. The protein pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors.
Herb Garden Special
Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill to create your own signature version of this cucumber strawberry salad.
Vegan Option
Simply omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing to make this completely plant-based.
Equipment
The beauty of this no-cook summer meal is that it requires minimal equipment. A sharp knife is essential for clean, even slices, and a mandoline slicer can make quick work of the cucumbers if you have one. A large mixing bowl and a small bowl for the dressing are all you need beyond basic kitchen tools.
A salad spinner can be helpful for drying the greens if you choose to include spinach or arugula. For serving, a large, shallow bowl shows off the beautiful colors of this fresh summer salad best.
Storage
Store leftover cucumber and strawberry salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, this salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the strawberries and cucumbers will release moisture over time. If you plan to make it ahead, prepare all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
The honey lime vinaigrette can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate.
The Secret That Changed My Summer Salads Forever
I still remember the first time I made this Cucumber Strawberry Salad on a scorching July afternoon, using strawberries I had just picked at a local farm stand. They were sun-warmed, perfectly ripe, and full of flavor—but still firm enough to hold their shape. That day, I learned a simple truth: when your ingredients are fresh and at their peak, you don’t need much else.
The crispness of the cucumber, the sweetness of those perfect berries, and just a whisper of vinaigrette was all it took to make this salad unforgettable. Now, every time I make this Cucumber Strawberry Salad, I treat it like a little love letter to summer—letting the produce shine, never overdressing, and savoring every bite like it’s the best secret I know.
FAQ
What should not be mixed with cucumber salad?
Avoid adding watery ingredients like overly ripe tomatoes or fruits that release too much juice, as they can make cucumber salad soggy. Strong flavors like anchovies or overly spicy dressings can overpower the fresh, delicate taste of cucumbers. Keep it light and balanced—fresh herbs, mild cheeses, and crisp veggies work best without overwhelming the refreshing base.
What is the secret ingredient in cucumber salad?
The secret ingredient that elevates cucumber salad is fresh citrus juice—like lime or lemon. It brightens everything up and enhances the natural crispness of cucumbers. In my Cucumber Strawberry Salad, fresh lime juice in the vinaigrette ties all the flavors together, giving that zesty, summery punch that makes this simple dish unforgettable.
Do cucumbers and strawberries go well together?
Yes, absolutely! Cucumbers and strawberries are a surprisingly perfect match—cool and crisp meets juicy and sweet. Their textures balance beautifully, and when tossed with a light vinaigrette and herbs, they create a fresh, summery salad that feels both refreshing and unique. It's one of my favorite flavor combos when warm weather hits!
Why soak cucumbers in salt water before making cucumber salad?
Soaking cucumbers in salt water for about 10 minutes helps draw out excess moisture, preventing your salad from becoming watery later. It also enhances their natural flavor and gives them a crisper texture. Just pat them dry afterward. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in keeping your salad fresh and flavorful.
Why This Cucumber Strawberry Salad Belongs on Every Summer Table
This Cucumber Strawberry Salad is a beautiful reminder that fresh, seasonal ingredients can turn into something truly special with just a little love. Its balance of juicy sweetness, crisp texture, and tangy brightness makes it more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of everything we love about summer cooking. Whether you're serving it at a backyard cookout or enjoying a quiet lunch on the porch, this salad fits right in.
If you’re craving more light and refreshing ideas, don’t miss our zesty and colorful Sunshine Salad or the bold flavors in this hearty Southwest Chicken Salad—both perfect companions to keep your summer menus vibrant and delicious. Let this Cucumber Strawberry Salad be your starting point for a season full of fresh inspiration.
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Cucumber Strawberry Salad recipe:
Cucumber Strawberry Salad Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Sharp knife For slicing cucumbers & strawberries
- 1 Mandoline Optional, for even slicing
- 2 Mixing bowls Large for salad, small for vinaigrette
- 1 Whisk For blending vinaigrette
- 1 Salad spinner Optional, for drying greens
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 English cucumbers Thinly sliced
- 2 cups Strawberries Hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup Red onion Thinly sliced (optional)
- ½ cup Feta cheese Crumbled
- ¼ cup Fresh mint Chopped
- 2 cups Baby spinach or arugula Optional greens
Honey Lime Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoon Olive oil Extra virgin preferred
- 2 tablespoon Lime juice Freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon Honey Use maple syrup for vegan version
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt & pepper To taste
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and strawberries
- Prep optional onions
- Whisk vinaigrette ingredients
- Combine salad ingredients
- Add feta and mint
- Chill before serving
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