Spicy Summer Cucumber Tomato Salad

A Refreshing Twist with a Bold Bite

Summer salads are often all about cool, crisp flavors—but what if you could add a little kick to the classic? This Spicy Cucumber Tomato Salad with Jalapeño takes your garden-fresh favorites and cranks up the heat with thinly sliced jalapeños, tangy lime juice, and a light olive oil dressing.

It’s cool and spicy, crisp yet juicy, and ideal for heat-lovers who crave something refreshing but bold. Whether you serve it at your next BBQ, picnic, or taco night, this salad is guaranteed to surprise and delight.

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🔥 Why You’ll Love This Zesty Cucumber Tomato Salad

• ✅ Bright, bold flavor with a spicy twist

• ✅ Light and hydrating, yet ultra-satisfying

• ✅ Made in under 15 minutes

• ✅ Great for BBQs, tacos, and more

• ✅ Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and Whole30-friendly

If you like your salads with personality, this one brings the heat—without sacrificing freshness.

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🛒 Ingredients

🥗 Salad Base

• 2 cups cucumbers, sliced or chopped (Persian or English cucumbers preferred)

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 1–2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust to spice preference)

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

🍋 Spicy Lime Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ¼ teaspoon cumin

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-In: A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want it extra fiery.

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👨‍🍳 How to Make Spicy Cucumber Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Wash all fresh produce thoroughly. Slice cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. Halve the tomatoes. Thinly slice the jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat) and red onion.

Spice control tip: Leave the jalapeño seeds in for more heat, or use just half the pepper for a milder version.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Toss & Serve

Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat. Let the salad rest for 5–10 minutes so the flavors can blend.

Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

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🌮 What to Serve It With

This spicy salad pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled meats (chicken, steak, shrimp)

• Fish tacos or carne asada

• Rice bowls or burrito bowls

• Black bean burgers or falafel

• Chips and guacamole for a Tex-Mex appetizer board

Make it a meal: Add black beans, avocado, or grilled corn to bulk it up into a lunch bowl!

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🌿 Recipe Variations

🥑 Add Avocado

Creamy avocado helps balance the spice and adds healthy fats.

🫘 Add Protein

• Black beans

• Chickpeas

• Grilled shrimp or tofu

🧀 Add Cheese

• Crumbled cotija or feta

• Shredded pepper jack for extra spice

🍍 Add Sweetness

• A few cubes of pineapple or mango add tropical contrast to the heat.

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Best eaten fresh or within 24 hours

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator

• Add avocado or cheese just before serving to keep them from softening too much

• Want to make it ahead? Prep veggies and dressing separately, and combine just before serving

💬 FAQs

Is this salad really spicy?

It depends on your jalapeños and how many seeds you include. For a milder version, remove the seeds or use just half a pepper.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—but for best texture and flavor, assemble close to serving time. Store dressing separately if prepping more than a few hours ahead.

What cucumbers are best?

Persian or English cucumbers are preferred because they’re thin-skinned, crisp, and have fewer seeds.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch—just use one without added sweeteners.

What if I don’t like cilantro?

No worries! Substitute with chopped parsley or simply leave it out.

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🔥 Final Thoughts: Cool Meets Heat in the Best Way

This Spicy Summer Cucumber Tomato Salad hits the perfect balance of fresh and fiery. With crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and bold jalapeños, it’s a quick and easy salad that wakes up your tastebuds without weighing you down.

Perfect for summer cookouts, taco nights, or anytime you want to turn up the flavor—this salad is your new go-to when boring sides just won’t cut it.