Cucumber and Strawberry Salad

The Cucumber and Strawberry Salad is the best side dish for summer with less than 10 ingredients. Juicy strawberries are tossed with fresh cucumber, basil, feta, and balsamic vinegar. It’s a recipe that will be everyone’s favorite at picnics and barbecues.

When it’s peak summer and the strawberries are perfect, this is my go-to salad recipe. Everyone absolutely loves this Cucumber and Strawberry Salad and for good reason, it’s so delicious!

Juicy, sweet strawberries are paired with crunchy, fresh cucumber, salty feta, red onion, and a honey balsamic dressing that is just to die for. If you’ve never been a fan of a savory fruit-based salad, this recipe will change you! I promise you can trust me, when I say it’s just that good.

If you love simple salad recipes, be sure to try our Lemon Pasta Salad, Caprese Panzanella Salad, and viral Healthy Pasta Salad.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Showcases fresh summer produce. The berries, cucumber, and onion all make for a crunchy, delicious bite that is perfect in the peak of summer.
• Crowd favorite salad. This side dish is requested over and over by our family and friends for any outdoor barbecue or gathering.
• Customize to your liking. With less than 10 ingredients, you can customize this salad with any fresh berries, herbs, and tangy cheese you have on hand – it’s just so simple to make!

Ingredients

Scroll down for specific ingredient amounts in the recipe card. 

• English cucumber: This is a seedless cucumber and is great for chopping and slicing.
• Strawberries: Buy fresh berries, frozen won’t work. Look for berries with a deep red color.
• Red onion: Adds a little zing in each bite.
• Fresh basil leaves: Gives that fresh summer flavor we all love.
• Fresh mint: Brings that hint of bright flavors that pairs perfectly with the strawberries.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese: Use feta for a more mild, salty cheese, or goat cheese for a tangy cheese.
• Olive oil: The base to the dressing that marinates the ingredients nicely.
• Balsamic vinegar: Adds an acidic, rich, almost caramel-like flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens and enhances all of the ingredient flavors.
• Honey: Gives just a hint of sweetness to the dressing to balance the vinegar.
• Optional Toppings: We love to add a crunch to this salad with toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pine nuts. Use your favorite here!

TOOLS YOU’LL NEED

• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Liquid Measuring Cups
• Tongs
• Cutting Board
• Paring Knife
• Citrus Press

How to Make Cucumber and Strawberry Salad

1. First, slice the vegetables, fruit, cheese, basil, and mint.

2. In a large bowl, combine the prepared cucumber, strawberries, and red onion.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and honey until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber and strawberry mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
5. Add basil, mint, and crumbled feta or goat cheese (if using). Toss gently to mix everything together.

6. Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted nuts if desired. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

• Use a mandolin to thinly slice. If you prefer even slices without using a knife, very carefully use a mandolin for simple slicing.
• Toss together in advance. This salad is great to prepare up to two hours in advance of a party to allow the flavors to marinate together.
• Get creative with other berries and herbs. Try adding some fresh blueberries or other herbs like chives for a twist on these delicious flavors.
• Pick the ripe strawberries. When looking at strawberries in the store or farmers’ market, be sure they are deep red in color on the outside – this ensures they are sweet and flavorful.

Storage & Make Ahead Instructions

This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to one day after serving. We don’t recommend freezing this salad as it will compromise the texture and make the berries mushy.

You can make this salad up to two hours in advance to allow the flavors to marinate and become even richer.

FAQs

More Delicious Salad Recipes

• Caprese Panzanella
• Lemon Pasta Salad
• Green Bean and Tomato Salad
• Marinated Vegetable Salad