Fresh melon and cucumber salad: the perfect recipe for your summer meals in 2024
Ultra fresh 🥗 Quick to prepare Vegan & gluten-free Perfect as a starter or side dish
Why we love this summer salad
Summertime is all about freshness, simplicity, and color on the plate. Melon and cucumber salad ticks all these boxes: it's quick to prepare, light, ultra-quenching, and adapts to all tastes. Its fruity sweetness appeals to young and old alike, and its crunch pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs or a hint of lemon. Whether you're in the middle of a heatwave, on a picnic, or simply in a hurry to enjoy a delicious meal, this is the perfect recipe to slip into all your summer menus!
Plus, this salad pairs perfectly with any barbecue season: it's a hit alongside kebabs, meat, or fish, but also on its own for a light meal. With just a few ingredients, you can have a starter or main course ready in less than fifteen minutes. And if you're looking for other quick-mix ideas, check out our selection of smoothie blenders to make fresh drinks or cold soups.
Serving Ideas & Variations of Melon-Cucumber Salad
The great strength of this salad is its versatility 🥗. You can serve it:
- As a very light starter, just before a barbecue or a hearty dish.
- As an accompaniment to summer grills: it adds a sweet and salty touch that refreshes the palate between bites. If you want to go further, discover our special barbecue & grill selection .
- As a vegetarian main course: add feta, grilled tofu, seeds or nuts for a complete and satisfying salad.
- In a sweet and savory version, with a few raspberries, diced watermelon or even a touch of chopped mint.
- For a buffet or a large meal, it can be prepared in advance and keeps very well in the fridge (up to twenty-four hours without any problem).
Also remember to vary the seasonings: a squeeze of lime, a vinaigrette with olive oil and white balsamic vinegar, or even a hint of sweet chili pepper for those who like a bit of excitement!
Need more inspiration for your summer menu? Head over to our Recipes of the Week page, where you'll find ideas for every taste.
Freshness and presentation tips 🥗
Marbles or dice?
For a wow effect, use a melon baller to shape melon and cucumber balls. No tools? Simply cut into even cubes, and the result is still very aesthetic.
Aromatic herbs at will
Sprinkle your salad with fresh mint, cilantro, or chopped basil. These herbs enhance the sweetness of the melon and accentuate the freshness of the cucumber.
The little extra twist
Add some feta chips, mozzarella, or even prosciutto for an irresistible sweet-and-savory effect. Fans might also want to try a pinch of white pepper or sweet chili.
Maximum freshness
Prepare the salad at the last minute or store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Serve directly onto chilled plates for a guaranteed refreshing effect!
Want to take your cooking to the next level? If you're a fan of quick and healthy recipes, check out our comparison of the best Air Fryers 2025 for smart cooking all summer long.
Choosing the right melon and cucumber (budget & purchases)
For a truly delicious melon and cucumber salad, it all starts with the choice of ingredients. Choose a heavy, fragrant melon with slightly soft skin at the ends. Yellow or green Charentais melons work perfectly: they should smell sweet without being too soft.
When it comes to cucumbers, choose firm, smooth, and a beautiful, glossy green. You can opt for classic cucumbers or mini, crunchier varieties. To limit your budget, buy during the peak season, ideally at the market or locally sourced. Melons and cucumbers are at their peak from June to September, when prices are lowest and the flavor is at its best.
Budget tip: If you're looking for variety, a pinch of raw watermelon or zucchini can replace some of the melon or cucumber without adding to the cost. Looking for more ways to blend fruits and vegetables? Our selection of smoothie blenders offers options for every taste and budget.
FAQ
How to prevent melon and cucumber salad from becoming too watery?
Drain the cucumber well before adding it (you can salt it lightly, then let it sit for ten minutes and pat dry). Cut the melon just before serving to preserve its texture and flavor.
Can the melon and cucumber salad be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it up to twelve to twenty-four hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and add the fresh herbs at the last minute to keep all their flavor.
What original seasonings should you try?
Try a lime vinaigrette, some toasted sesame seeds, or even a hint of grated ginger to spice up your salad! A drizzle of honey or a touch of white balsamic vinegar also work well.
Is the salad suitable for a vegan or gluten-free diet?
Yes, the basic version is naturally vegan and gluten-free. If you add cheese or prosciutto, adapt it to your individual needs.
Can other fruits or vegetables be incorporated?
Of course! Watermelon, cherry tomatoes, radishes, raw zucchini, or even avocado pair beautifully with the melon-cucumber duo. Let your imagination run wild!
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