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This strawberry cucumber watermelon salad has been my summer potluck secret weapon for years, bringing bright colors and refreshing flavors to any outdoor gathering with minimal effort.
I first created this salad during a particularly scorching July weekend when turning on the oven felt criminal. The combination was such a hit that my neighbor now requests I bring it to every summer block party.
Ingredients
- Strawberries: 3 cups, hulled and diced. Look for bright red berries with no white shoulders for maximum sweetness
- Watermelon: 3 cups, seeded and cubed. Choose a melon that sounds hollow when tapped for juiciness
- English cucumber: 1 whole, chopped. The thin skin and fewer seeds make this variety ideal
- Red onion: 1/2, thinly sliced. Provides essential contrast to the sweet fruits
- Fresh mint leaves: a handful, chopped. Adds cooling brightness that ties everything together
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons. Use a good quality oil for best flavor
- Fresh lime juice: from 1 lime. The acidity balances the sweetness perfectly
- Kosher salt and black pepper: to taste. Enhances all the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit:
- Hull and dice strawberries into bite-sized pieces. Cut watermelon into similar sized cubes, removing seeds as you go. Chop cucumber into half-moon slices. Slice red onion thinly, rinsing under cold water to reduce sharpness if desired. Roughly chop mint leaves just before adding to preserve their oils.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add prepared strawberries, watermelon, cucumber, red onion and mint to a large serving bowl. Make sure the bowl is spacious enough to allow for gentle tossing without crushing the delicate fruits.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle olive oil and fresh lime juice over the fruit mixture. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with less seasoning than you think you need as you can always add more.
- Final Toss:
- Gently fold all ingredients together using wooden spoons or your hands to avoid bruising the fruits. Continue until everything is evenly coated with the simple dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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The mint is truly the secret ingredient here. I grow several varieties in my garden, and chocolate mint adds an unexpected but delightful twist when I want to surprise guests with something special.
Storage Tips
This salad is best enjoyed within a few hours of preparation as the fruits will continue to release their juices. If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavors will meld together, creating a slightly different but equally delicious experience the next day. I recommend draining excess liquid before serving leftovers.
Perfect Pairings
This cucumber strawberry salad shines alongside grilled proteins like lemon herb chicken or simply seasoned steak. The coolness of the salad balances the char from the grill beautifully. For a vegetarian option, serve with grilled halloumi cheese or alongside a quinoa pilaf. At breakfast, I sometimes enjoy smaller portions with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this salad lies in its adaptability. For a Mediterranean twist, add crumbled feta cheese and substitute basil for mint. Seeking more protein? Toss in some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds just before serving. If you prefer less sweetness, increase the cucumber ratio and add a splash more lime juice. My family enjoys a spicy version with thin slices of jalapeño mixed in.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other fruits in this salad?
Yes, you can mix in fruits like blueberries, raspberries, mandarin oranges, or peaches to add variety and flavor.
- → What other toppings can I add?
Add crumbled feta, mozzarella, chopped black olives, jalapeño, or sliced fennel bulb for extra flavor and texture.
- → How do I store the salad?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Add fresh mint and lime juice before serving again to revive the flavor.
- → What pairs well with this salad?
This salad is great as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or toasted country bread.
- → What is the key to making this salad taste great?
Use ripe, juicy strawberries and fresh mint for the best results. The red onion adds a crucial bite to balance the sweetness.