I enjoy making this clementine cucumber salad when I want something bright, refreshing, and full of natural sweetness. The juicy clementines pair beautifully with crisp cucumber, creating a light and vibrant dish. I like how the citrus adds a burst of flavor that makes the salad feel fresh and energizing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I appreciate how simple and quick this recipe is to prepare. The combination of sweet citrus and cool cucumber creates a perfect balance of flavors. I also like how versatile it is because I can serve it as a side dish, a light snack, or even alongside grilled meals. It is a recipe I often make when I want something refreshing and easy.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 clementines, peeled and separated into segments
1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional additions:
feta cheese
toasted almonds
avocado slices
Directions
I start by peeling the clementines and separating them into segments.
Next, I slice the cucumber and red onion thinly.
I place the clementines, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl.
I add the chopped mint for freshness.
In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper.
I pour the dressing over the salad.
I gently toss everything together until well combined.
I serve the salad immediately or chill it slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add arugula or mixed greens for extra volume. Another variation I enjoy is including pomegranate seeds for more color and sweetness. Occasionally I use lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus note. When I want extra crunch, I add toasted nuts or seeds.
storage/reheating
I store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day.
I prefer eating it fresh, but I give it a gentle stir before serving again.
I do not reheat this dish, as it is meant to be served cold.
FAQs
Can I use oranges instead of clementines?
Yes, I sometimes use oranges or mandarins as a substitute.
How do I keep the salad from becoming watery?
I slice the cucumber just before serving or lightly pat it dry.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
I prefer preparing it fresh, but I can prep the ingredients ahead and mix them later.
What herbs work well in this salad?
I like using mint, but basil or cilantro can also work.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, I sometimes add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Conclusion
I enjoy making this clementine cucumber salad because it is light, refreshing, and full of bright flavors. The combination of sweet citrus and crisp cucumber creates a dish that feels simple yet delicious. It is a recipe I like to prepare when I want something quick, healthy, and satisfying.
Print
Clementine Cucumber Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A bright and refreshing salad combining juicy clementines, crisp cucumber, and fresh mint, tossed in a light citrus dressing for a naturally sweet and vibrant dish.
Ingredients
- 3 clementines, peeled and separated into segments
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: feta cheese
- Optional: toasted almonds
- Optional: avocado slices
Instructions
- Peel the clementines and separate them into segments.
- Thinly slice the cucumber and red onion.
- Place the clementines, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Add the chopped mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve immediately or chill slightly before serving.
Notes
- For best texture, prepare just before serving to avoid excess moisture.
- Pat cucumber slices dry if needed to reduce wateriness.
- Swap lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
- Add greens like arugula for extra volume.
- Enhance crunch with nuts or seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
