Cucumber Blueberry Salad with Mint and Almonds Recipe
Introduction
This refreshing cucumber blueberry salad combines crisp cucumbers and sweet blueberries for a delightful summer dish. Tossed with a light, tangy dressing and accented by fresh mint and almonds, it’s perfect as a snack or a side.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers
- 1 pint blueberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh mint
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice cucumbers into bite-size pieces and place them in a large bowl. Add blueberries and sliced almonds.
- Step 2: Gather fresh mint leaves into a tight stack, roll them up, and slice into thin ribbons. Add the mint to the bowl with the other ingredients.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 5: Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a crunchier texture, toast the sliced almonds lightly before adding to the salad.
- Swap honey for maple syrup to make this salad vegan-friendly.
- Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy contrast.
- Use a mix of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro along with mint for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water over time, so toss gently before serving again. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead and refrigerate it, but it tastes best when enjoyed within the same day to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Fresh blueberries are preferred for texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well before adding to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
PrintCucumber Blueberry Salad with Mint and Almonds Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant Cucumber Blueberry Salad featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy blueberries, and crunchy almonds tossed in a zesty lemon-mint dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, this salad combines fresh flavors with a touch of sweetness and herbaceous mint, making it ideal for warm weather or anytime you crave a quick, nutritious dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers
- 1 pint blueberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh mint
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: Slice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the blueberries and sliced almonds to the bowl, combining these fresh ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the mint: Stack the fresh mint leaves, roll them tightly into a bundle, then slice into long, thin ribbons (a technique known as chiffonade). Add the mint ribbons to the bowl with the other salad ingredients.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until well emulsified and combined into a smooth dressing.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Serve or chill: The salad can be served immediately for the freshest taste or covered and refrigerated until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld for a short time.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup as indicated.
- Use fresh, ripe blueberries for the best sweetness and flavor.
- To save time, pre-sliced almonds can be used, but toasting them slightly enhances their flavor.
- This salad is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
- Mint can be adjusted or substituted with fresh basil for a different herbal note.
Keywords: cucumber salad, blueberry salad, fresh salad, healthy salad, summer salad, almond salad, lemon dressing, mint salad, vegetarian salad, no cook salad
