Cucumber Salsa

Cucumber Salsa Recipe - Easy-to-Make and Packed with Flavorful Ingredients from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cucumber salsa is a refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional salsa, perfect for summer gatherings or as a light and healthy snack. This recipe combines the crispness of cucumbers with the tanginess of tomatoes and the heat of jalapeño peppers, creating a delicious and unique dish.

History

Cucumber salsa is a modern take on traditional salsa recipes, incorporating fresh cucumbers for a unique twist. While the exact origins of this recipe are unclear, it has become a popular dish in recent years for its refreshing flavor and versatility.

Ingredients

2 medium cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and chopped
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
0.5 cup green bell peppers, chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tsp fresh parsley, minced
2 tsp fresh cilantro, minced
0.5 tsp dried dill weed
0.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Serve the mixture with tortilla chips.

Variations

Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
Mix in black beans or corn for added protein and fiber.
Substitute lemon juice for lime juice for a different citrus flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and seed the cucumbers before chopping them to prevent the salsa from becoming watery.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper to suit your spice preference.

- For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño pepper before mincing.

- For a more intense flavor, let the salsa sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cucumber salsa with tortilla chips for a light and refreshing snack.

- Use it as a topping for grilled fish or chicken for a burst of flavor.

- Add it to tacos or burritos for a fresh and crunchy element.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to chop all the ingredients finely for a consistent texture.

- Refrigerate the salsa for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red bell peppers instead of green for a sweeter flavor.

- Substitute red onion for white onion for a milder taste.

- Use dried parsley and cilantro if fresh herbs are not available.

Make Ahead Tips

This salsa can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cucumber salsa in a hollowed-out cucumber for a fun and creative presentation. - Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this cucumber salsa with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing combination.

- Serve it alongside grilled shrimp or fish for a light and healthy meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Stir well before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 10g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 0g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 1g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Calcium: 2% DV

- Iron: 4% DV

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.

Summary

This cucumber salsa is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy and delicious option for snacking or as a side dish.

Summary

Cucumber salsa is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for summer entertaining or as a healthy snack. With its crisp cucumbers, tangy tomatoes, and spicy jalapeño peppers, this salsa is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy it with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled meats, or as a flavorful addition to tacos and burritos.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Cucumber Salsa. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her small village in Mexico. Maria was known for her delicious homemade salsas, and I was always eager to learn new recipes from her.

As we sat in her cozy kitchen, Maria pulled out a basket of fresh cucumbers from her garden. She began chopping them up into small pieces and adding them to a bowl. I watched in awe as she added in some diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. The vibrant colors and fresh aromas filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Maria then reached for a bottle of vinegar and poured some over the mixture. She explained that the acidity of the vinegar would help preserve the salsa and enhance the flavors. Next, she added in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick. I admired Maria's knowledge of flavors and her ability to balance them perfectly in her dishes.

As the salsa sat and marinated, Maria shared with me the story behind this recipe. She told me that she learned it from her grandmother, who passed it down through the generations. The recipe originated from a small village in the mountains, where the locals would make it to accompany their meals. Maria's eyes sparkled with pride as she spoke about her family's culinary traditions.

After letting the salsa sit for a while, Maria handed me a tortilla chip and told me to try it. I scooped up a generous spoonful of the cucumber salsa and popped it into my mouth. The flavors exploded on my taste buds - the crispness of the cucumbers, the tanginess of the vinegar, the heat of the jalapeños. It was a perfect balance of flavors that left me craving more.

From that moment on, I knew that I had to learn how to make this delicious cucumber salsa. Maria graciously shared the recipe with me, and I eagerly wrote it down in my recipe book. Over the years, I have made this salsa countless times, each batch reminding me of that sunny day in Maria's kitchen.

To make the cucumber salsa, you will need:

- 2 cucumbers, diced

- 1 tomato, diced

- 1/2 onion, finely chopped

- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

- 2 tablespoons white vinegar

- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped

- Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Mix well to combine. Pour the vinegar over the mixture and stir to coat evenly. Add in the chopped jalapeños and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cover the bowl and let the salsa sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the cucumber salsa with tortilla chips, tacos, or grilled meats for a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment.

I am grateful to Maria for introducing me to this wonderful recipe and for sharing her culinary expertise with me. The cucumber salsa has become a staple in my kitchen, and I love making it for family gatherings and special occasions. Every time I prepare this salsa, I am transported back to that summer day in Maria's kitchen, surrounded by the warm flavors and memories of a cherished friendship.