Pineapple And Cucumber Salad
A bright, refreshing salad that blends tangy pineapple, crisp cucumber, and a sweet gelatinous dressing, finished with creamy mayo and parsley—perfect for a light summer lunch or side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak gelatin in cold water.
- Add hot water, lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, and salt.
- Stir in a small amount of green food coloring and let the mixture begin to set.
- Fold in the grated pineapple and chopped cucumber.
- Pour the mixture into a ring mold and refrigerate until firm.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce, topped with a dollop of mayonnaise mixed with whipped cream and chopped parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant color, adjust the amount of green food coloring to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter salad, consider adding more sugar or using a sweeter variety of cucumber. You can also substitute the canned pineapple with fresh pineapple for a more natural taste. This dish can be made ahead of time and is a great addition to summer picnics, like the Golfer'S Delight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce. For added flavor, top with a dollop of mayonnaise mixed with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a refreshing side at summer barbecues. It's a unique way to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salad may lose some firmness over time, so to enjoy the best texture, consume it within the first day. If you need to reheat it, serve at room temperature rather than microwaving, to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple And Cucumber Salad contains roughly 485 calories, with 11g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 956mg per serving (42% 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 use fresh cucumbers instead of chopped cucumber?
Yes, using fresh cucumbers enhances the crunchiness of the salad. Just be sure to peel and seed them if they are large, as this will help avoid excess moisture in the gelatin mixture.
What can I substitute for gelatin if I want a vegetarian option?
You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute for gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the equivalent amount needed to achieve a similar consistency in your salad.
How can I make this salad more tropical?
To give this salad a more tropical flair, consider adding diced mango or kiwi. These fruits complement the pineapple and cucumber beautifully and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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).