Cucumber And Orange Salad
A refreshing and tangy salad featuring crisp cucumber and sweet oranges, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings, highlighting bright citrus and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel, halve, and seed the cucumber.
- Cut the cucumber into 1/2-inch slices, working over a bowl to collect the juices.
- Peel 2 oranges with a paring knife, cutting down to the flesh to remove all white pith.
- Cut the orange sections away from the membrane, releasing the juice into the bowl.
- Measure 3 tablespoons of orange juice.
- Squeeze more juice from the third orange if necessary to reach 3 tablespoons.
- Combine the cucumber slices, orange sections, orange juice, and 1/8 teaspoon salt in the bowl.
- Toss everything together to coat evenly and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, try adding fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor. If you don't have navel oranges, any juicy variety will work well. Ensure the cucumber is firm for the best texture. To enhance the salad, consider adding thinly sliced red onion or a splash of olive oil for richness, making it a great accompaniment to Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled as a light appetizer or a refreshing side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect complement to a summer barbecue. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Greek Meat Loaf or as part of a larger spread of Mediterranean recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some crunch, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you want to reheat the salad, consider briefly microwaving it to slightly warm the ingredients, but be aware that it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber And Orange Salad contains roughly 22 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1746mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber and oranges a few hours in advance. However, it's best to combine the ingredients just before serving to maintain the crispness of the cucumber.
What other fruits can I add to this salad?
Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as grapefruit, kiwi, or berries for added flavor and color. Each will provide a unique twist, enhancing the overall freshness of the salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! This cucumber and orange salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Enjoy it without any concerns.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).