crisp cucumber salsa
If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish to brighten up your meals, you’ve come to the right place! This crisp cucumber salsa is one of my absolute favorites, and it’s the perfect addition to any gathering or even just a cozy night in. The crunch of the cucumbers combined with the zesty citrus dressing creates a unique flavor that dances on your taste buds. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you can have it ready in just 15 minutes!
This salsa isn’t just a hit at summer barbecues; it’s great for busy weeknights or as an appetizer at family gatherings. Serve it alongside chips, and watch how it disappears in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can make this delightful salsa, making it perfect for last-minute snacks or parties.
- Family-friendly: Kids love dipping chips into this fresh and crunchy salsa, making it a hit with everyone!
- Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this salsa ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy!
- Healthy and refreshing: Packed with fresh veggies and low-calorie ingredients, this salsa is not only delicious but also guilt-free.
- Versatile: Use this salsa as a dip or as a topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or fish — the possibilities are endless!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious crisp cucumber salsa. Don’t worry; these are all easy-to-find items that will make your kitchen smell amazing!
For the Salsa
- 2 cups finely peeled, seeded, and chopped cucumbers
- 1/2 cup finely chopped and seeded tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
- 4 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh cilantro
- 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
For Serving
- Chips, for serving
Variations
One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Add some fruit: Try including diced mango or pineapple for a touch of sweetness.
- Go spicy: If you crave more heat, add diced serrano peppers instead of jalapenos.
- Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist.
- Creamy alternative: Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for added protein.
How to Make crisp cucumber salsa
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by gathering all your fresh veggies. In a small bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, and garlic. Mixing these colorful vegetables together not only looks beautiful but also allows their flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In another bowl, mix together the sour cream, lemon juice, lime juice, ground cumin, and seasoned salt. Stir until everything is well combined. This dressing adds creaminess and tanginess that brings all the fresh flavors together. Remember that balance is key!
Step 3: Combine Everything
Now pour that creamy dressing over your vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until every piece is evenly coated in that delicious dressing. This step ensures each bite bursts with flavor!
Step 4: Serve It Up!
Serve immediately with tortilla chips for dipping! You’ll want to enjoy this crisp cucumber salsa while it’s fresh so that you can savor its amazing crunch. It’s perfect for sharing (or not!) — I won’t tell if you want to keep it all to yourself!
Pro Tips for Making crisp cucumber salsa
Making crisp cucumber salsa is as easy as pie, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure every bite is bursting with flavor!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and tomatoes make a significant difference in taste and texture. The crispness of fresh produce helps your salsa stand out.
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Deseed the cucumbers: Removing the seeds keeps your salsa from becoming watery, ensuring a delightful crunch in every scoop.
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Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder salsa, start with less jalapeno and add more to taste. This way, you can customize the heat to suit your palate.
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Chill before serving: Allowing your salsa to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together, making each bite even more delicious.
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Experiment with herbs: While cilantro is traditional, feel free to mix in other herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist that can brighten up the flavor profile.
How to Serve crisp cucumber salsa
This crisp cucumber salsa is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! Present it beautifully for your guests and watch them dig in with delight.
Garnishes
- Chopped avocado: Adding creamy avocado on top provides a rich contrast to the refreshing salsa.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating elevates the flavor and adds a zesty kick.
- Fresh cilantro leaves: Scatter some whole cilantro leaves over your salsa for an aromatic finish that enhances its visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Tortilla chips: The classic pairing! Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up this refreshing salsa.
- Grilled vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring smokiness that complements the fresh flavors of your salsa.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs beautifully with this dish, adding richness that balances out the bright notes of cucumber and tomato.
- Pita bread: Cut into triangles, warm pita bread serves as an excellent base for dipping into your salsa while giving it a Mediterranean twist!
Enjoy creating this vibrant dish that’s perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in—your taste buds will thank you!
Make Ahead and Storage
This crisp cucumber salsa is not only a refreshing treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly.
Storing Leftovers
- Place any leftover salsa in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed.
Freezing
- This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it:
- Scoop the salsa into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Leave some space for expansion and seal tightly.
- Use within one month for the best flavor; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before eating.
Reheating
- Since this salsa is served cold, there’s no need to reheat.
- Simply give it a gentle stir before serving if it has been sitting in the fridge.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making crisp cucumber salsa!
How do I make crisp cucumber salsa spicier?
To make your crisp cucumber salsa spicier, simply increase the amount of jalapeno pepper. You can also experiment with adding other spicy ingredients like diced serrano peppers.
Can I use different herbs in my crisp cucumber salsa?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for cilantro and parsley, you can substitute with fresh mint or basil for a unique twist on flavors.
How long does crisp cucumber salsa last in the fridge?
Crisp cucumber salsa stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this crisp cucumber salsa! It’s perfect for gatherings, light snacks, or simply as a refreshing treat during warm days. Enjoy its vibrant flavors and delightful crunch—I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!
Crisp Cucumber Salsa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
If you’re seeking a vibrant and refreshing dish to elevate your meals, this crisp cucumber salsa is the perfect choice! Bursting with flavor from fresh ingredients, it’s an ideal snack for gatherings or a light addition to any meal. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, zesty tomatoes, and a tangy dressing creates a delightful taste experience that everyone will love. Best of all, it comes together in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Serve it with chips, grilled chicken, or as a topping on tacos for endless possibilities!
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped cucumbers
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 1 medium jalapeno pepper
- 4 1/2 teaspoons fresh cilantro
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice
- Chips for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, and garlic. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, lemon juice, lime juice, ground cumin, and seasoned salt until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mix and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 60g
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
