The Art of Ultimate Cucumber Strawberry Salad Perfection

Perfect Fruit Preparation Mastery

Master the technique of selecting and preparing strawberries to maintain optimal texture.

Cucumber Slicing Excellence

Learn the skill of cutting cucumbers uniformly for consistent texture and appearance.

Balsamic Vinaigrette Perfection

Perfect the method of creating balanced, emulsified balsamic-based dressing.

Herb Integration Technique

Master the art of incorporating fresh herbs without overwhelming delicate fruit flavors.

Assembly Timing Strategy

Learn optimal timing for combining ingredients to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.

Summer Salad Mastery Secrets for Perfect Cucumber Strawberry Combination

Strawberry Selection: Choose ripe but firm strawberries that won't become mushy when dressed.

Cucumber Consistency: Cut cucumbers uniformly for even flavor distribution and attractive presentation.

Onion Mildness: Soak red onion in cold water to reduce sharpness and complement sweet fruits.

Herb Handling: Add fresh herbs just before serving to prevent wilting and maintain vibrant color.

Vinaigrette Balance: Adjust honey to taste depending on strawberry sweetness and personal preference.

Serving Temperature: Serve chilled for best refreshing quality and optimal flavor contrast experience.

Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Fresh Mint and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Name: Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Fresh Mint and Balsamic Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Fresh Base:; 4 large English cucumbers, sliced; 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; For the Herb Enhancement:; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced; For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; For the Flavor Boosters:; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon lime zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Creamy Elements:; 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup sunflower seeds; For the Seasoning:; 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper; For the Optional Additions:; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 tablespoons poppy seeds

The ultimate summer salad featuring crisp cucumbers, sweet juicy strawberries, and fresh mint leaves tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette. This refreshing and colorful dish combines the cool crunch of fresh cucumbers with the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries, creating a delightful salad that's perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light lunch meals that celebrate the best of seasonal produce with every vibrant and flavorful bite.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

0 Minutes

Total Time

15 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Fresh Base:

4 large English cucumbers, sliced

2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

For the Herb Enhancement:

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

For the Flavor Boosters:

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon lime zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Creamy Elements:

4 oz goat cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup toasted walnuts, chopped

1/4 cup sunflower seeds

For the Seasoning:

1 teaspoon coarse sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon white pepper

For the Optional Additions:

1 avocado, sliced

1/4 cup dried cranberries

2 tablespoons poppy seeds

For the Garnish:

Extra mint sprigs

Strawberry slices

Lime wedges

For the Sweet Touch:

2 tablespoons agave nectar

1 tablespoon brown sugar

For Perfect Assembly:

Large salad bowl

Salad tongs

Small whisk

For Special Equipment:

Sharp knife

Cutting board

Measuring cups

Small mixing bowl

Instructions

Wash strawberries thoroughly and remove hulls with sharp paring knife.

Slice strawberries into uniform pieces, about 1/4 inch thick slices.

Wash cucumbers and slice into rounds or half-moons as preferred.

Slice red onion as thinly as possible for delicate flavor balance.

Soak sliced onion in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow sharpness.

Drain onion slices and pat dry with paper towels before using.

Wash fresh mint leaves and chop roughly for rustic texture appeal.

Tear basil leaves by hand to prevent bruising and maintain freshness.

Mince chives finely with sharp knife for even flavor distribution throughout.

In small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and minced garlic.

Add honey, Dijon mustard, and vanilla extract to vinegar mixture.

Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to create smooth emulsion.

Add lime juice and zest to vinaigrette, whisking until well combined.

Season vinaigrette with salt and both peppers to taste preference.

In large salad bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and strawberry pieces.

Add drained red onion slices and toss gently to distribute evenly.

Sprinkle chopped mint, torn basil, and minced chives over fruit mixture.

Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over salad and toss gently to coat.

Let salad marinate for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Add crumbled goat cheese and toasted walnuts just before serving.

Sprinkle sunflower seeds and poppy seeds over top for extra crunch.

Garnish with additional mint sprigs and lime wedges for presentation.

Serve immediately while cucumbers and strawberries are at peak freshness.

If making ahead, add delicate ingredients just before serving time.

Store leftovers covered in refrigerator for up to 1 day maximum.

Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Fresh Mint and Balsamic Vinaigrette

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Cucumber Strawberry Salad Perfection

Cucumber Strawberry Salad with Fresh Mint and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ingredients

Instructions