Mexican cucumber salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that combines crisp cucumbers with tangy lime juice, chili powder, and fresh herbs. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or as a healthy snack on a hot day. It’s full of zesty, bold flavors and has just the right amount of spice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing and light – Crisp cucumbers and citrusy lime make this salad incredibly fresh.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep.
- Healthy and nutritious – Low in calories and packed with hydration and antioxidants.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level and ingredients to your liking.
- Perfect side dish – Pairs well with Mexican dishes, BBQ, or seafood.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cucumbers, sliced (English or Persian cucumbers work best)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Cilantro, chopped
- Jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for spice)
- Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Olive oil
- Chili powder
- TajÃn or smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and black pepper
- Cotija cheese, crumbled (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the ingredients – Slice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the cilantro and finely dice the jalapeño (if using).
- Mix the dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, TajÃn (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Combine everything – In a large bowl, toss the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño with the dressing until well coated.
- Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with cotija cheese (if using) and serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Mango Twist – Toss in diced mango for a sweet contrast.
- Creamy Option – Mix in a little Greek yogurt or avocado for creaminess.
- Crunchy Additions – Sprinkle with toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or crushed tortilla chips.
- Vegan and Dairy-Free – Simply omit the cotija cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prep the ingredients ahead of time and mix with the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.
FAQs
What type of cucumber is best for this salad?
English or Persian cucumbers are best because they have thinner skins and fewer seeds.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can work in a pinch.
How do I make this salad less spicy?
Leave out the jalapeño or remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
Can I add avocado to this salad?
Yes! Diced avocado adds a creamy texture and pairs well with the lime dressing.
What can I serve with Mexican cucumber salad?
It’s great with tacos, grilled chicken, seafood, or as a topping for tostadas.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Lime gives the most authentic Mexican flavor, but lemon can be used if necessary.
How do I keep cucumbers from getting soggy?
Serve immediately after dressing, or keep the cucumbers separate until ready to eat.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb diet.
Can I add corn to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled or roasted corn adds extra sweetness and texture.
What’s a good substitute for cotija cheese?
Feta cheese works well as a substitute for cotija.
Conclusion
Mexican cucumber salad is a simple yet vibrant dish that brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and bold seasonings for a refreshing and flavorful bite. Whether served as a side dish, snack, or taco topping, this salad is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, zesty flavors. Try it for your next meal and enjoy a taste of Mexico in every bite!
PrintMexican Cucumber Salad
This Mexican Cucumber Salad is refreshing, crunchy, and bursting with bold flavors! Made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and a hint of chili, it’s a light and healthy side dish that’s perfect for BBQs, tacos, or a quick snack.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 1x
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mexican, Healthy
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers (sliced or diced, peeled if desired)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved, or 1 large tomato diced)
- ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 jalapeño (seeded and diced, optional for heat)
- 1 avocado (diced, optional for creaminess)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp chili powder or TajÃn (for a zesty kick)
- ¼ tsp cumin (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
- Slice or dice cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño.
- Chop cilantro and dice avocado (if using).
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with the lime dressing and toss well.
- Gently fold in avocado right before serving.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve immediately or let sit for 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish with extra TajÃn, lime wedges, or crumbled queso fresco.
Notes
- Make It Spicier: Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Extra Crunch? Toss in roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or crushed tortilla chips.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh but keeps in the fridge for 1 day.