cucumber salsa [Cucumber Pico de Gallo]

Fresh and delicious 15 minute cucumber salsa

We love to do 5-minute mixer salsa over just about anything, and turn to the classic pico de gallo when we want something “fresher”. However, for the ultimate chilling, refreshing salsa, this cucumber salsa recipe is a must! It really makes the most of the cucumber’s crisp, crunchy texture and cooling abilities.

Using familiar, simple, fresh, and inexpensive ingredients like chili, lime juice, chili, onion, and cilantro, this dish is quick to make and tastes like cucumber pico de gallo (with or without tomatoes). It’s also a diet-friendly side dish—gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, paleo, and keto!

Once made, this easy cucumber salsa is perfect for serving as a snack with tortilla chips, tacos, BBQ’s, potlucks, Cinco de Mayo, and as a side to just about any of your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes.

The ingredients

You only need six simple ingredients plus salt and pepper to put together this easy cucumber salsa recipe.

• Cucumber: Use a low-germ variety of cucumber such as Persian or English cucumber.
• Red onion: We love the color and bright, pungent flavor of red onions, although yellow onions or shallots work, too.
• Chile: Select the chili based on your desired level of spiciness. Ie (mildest to spiciest) Poblano, Jalapeño, Chipotle, Serrano, Habanero. Alternatively, use red pepper flakes.
• Olive oil: We prefer extra virgin olive oil whenever possible, but regular mild virgin olive oil will do as well.
• Coriander: If you’re not a fan, flat-leaf parsley works. You can also add green onions.
• lime juice: Use fresh lime juice (add some zest as well for extra flavor). Lemon juice would work too.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Season to taste.

Optional recipe add-ins

There are multiple ways to build flavor in this easy pickle salsa recipe.

• tomatoes: When in season, ripe tomatoes like Roma tomatoes or plum tomatoes (pitted and finely chopped) make a delicious cucumber and tomato salsa.
• paprika: Finely diced for added crunch.
• cumin: Add a pinch and increase to taste for an earthy, hearty flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly chopped garlic adds wonderful depth to this cucumber salsa recipe. Start with one clove and increase to taste.
• Mango: Check out our Mango Cucumber Salsa recipe here.
• Pineapple: Add about ⅓-½ cup chopped fruit for a delicious sweet savory pineapple cucumber salsa.
• Avocado: Add ½-1 small avocados for a cucumber and avocado salsa with creaminess and heart-healthy fat.

How do you make cucumber salsa?

There are just two steps to making this pico de gallo salsa with fresh pickles.

• 1) First peel and chop the onion, cucumber and garlic, deseed, de-seed and chop the chili. Roughly chop the cilantro too.

• 2) Place everything in a large serving bowl and season to taste.

For the best taste Let the cucumber salsa sit for 30-60 minutes so that the flavors combine.

How to advance and save?

Giving the pico de gallo cucumber salsa time to melt is best for the flavor, so prepare it several hours in advance if you have time.

All leftovers are stored in an airtight container Fridge for 2-3 days before it becomes excessively “soaked”, and it will not freeze well. The flavor will also mellow over time, so top up with lime juice/spices if needed.

Ways to use cucumber salsa

We also like to serve it as a refreshing side dish at picnics and especially on barbecue days.

Top recipe tips and notes

• When the cucumbers are shabby: Use a spoon to scoop out the mushy, shabby center. Otherwise, the spiciness can cause the salsa to go soggy too quickly.
• Use gloves with chillies: Not only can the oils burn your skin, they stay. It is therefore best to wear gloves and avoid touching your face.
• For smoky taste: You can grill/roast the peppers/s until they are slightly charred.
• Peeling vs no peelingTip: If you like it a bit “bitter”, leave the cucumber unpeeled (unless it is a variety with a thick, bitter skin).
• Adjust the heat: Change how much fresh chili you use, if any.
• Adjust the texture: How coarse vs. fine you dice the ingredients is up to you. A fairly fine cube is great for savoring all the flavors in every bite.