Chilli Lime Cucumber Salad (Print View)

Cucumbers mixed with zesty lime, chili flakes, and cilantro create a refreshing summer side.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
03 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

→ Dressing

04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - 1 teaspoon chili flakes
07 - 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
08 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnish

10 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

# Preparation Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili flakes, honey or agave, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
03 - Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
05 - Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together faster than you can set the table, which means more time enjoying the moment instead of standing at the stove.
  • The lime and chili balance creates a flavor that tastes fancy but feels completely effortless.
  • It works with almost any meal and makes boring vegetables feel like the star of the plate.
02 -
  • If you make this more than a few hours ahead, the cucumbers release water and the dressing gets diluted—save the assembly for just before eating, but you can prep everything else in advance.
  • The chili flakes intensify as the salad sits, so if you're nervous about heat, start with half a teaspoon and add more if you taste it after a couple minutes.
03 -
  • Chill your serving bowl in the refrigerator for five minutes before assembling—it keeps the salad cool longer and makes the whole experience feel more intentional.
  • If the dressing tastes too sharp, you added too much lime or didn't whisk in enough honey; if it tastes flat, it usually needs more salt or a second squeeze of lime to wake it back up.
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