In salsa, cucumbers give it a fresh crispy flavor like no other. During the hot summer months this Crunchy Salsa with Fresh Cucumbers is an excellent choice if you want to bring something along on a picnic, barbecue party or just serve yourself as a healthy snack when at home. It is light, tangy and full of zest hence can be used as either side dish or topping that can be coupled with any meal type for elevated taste.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
¼ cup sour cream: To mellow the crunchy textures of the salsa
1 ½ tsp lemon juice: Gives a tangy taste
1 ½ tsp lime juice: It freshens it with citrusy punch
¼ tsp cumin: Brings out warmness and earth
¼ tsp seasoned salt: Gives a spice note throughout the sauce.
For the Salsa:
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped: For a sharp sweet taste which contrasts with the cool cucumber
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Indicates that parsley is slightly hot when freshened
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds some acid it (sauce)
½ cup tomatoes, chopped and deseeded: Juicy, sweet plus slightly watery
2 cups cucumber, chopped: A star ingredient serving a delightful crunchy texture
1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely chopped: Adds a gentle warmth making it great for a little oomph on tortilla chips
1 tsp garlic, minced: Gives the vegetable mix a hearty taste when used raw
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl mix the sour cream, lemon juice, lime juice, cumin, and seasoned salt together. This mixture should be creamy enough to coat all parts of salsa with it.
Step 2: Prepare the Salsa
Combine the Vegetables: Make sure to toss well the red onions, parsley and cilantro that has been finely chopped together with tomatoes, cucumber, jalapeño pepper or garlic in a big bowl. Stir so as to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Mix It Up: After you put the prepared sauce over this salsa combination mix gently until all these vegetables are covered by this creamy sauce.
Chill and Serve: At this point put the bowl in a refrigerator for upto two hours then serve it. The combination blends naturally during this period hence flavors merge beautifully. Serve it with your favorite tortilla chips or even use as topping on grilled chicken, tacos or fish.
Variations and Tips
Spice Level: In case you want it hotter , just leave seeds inside jalapeño without cutting them out or even add crushed red pepper flakes.
Herb Alternatives: Change cilantro with more parsley or fresh basil if you don’t like it
Creamy Alternative: Instead of sour cream make use of yogurt without dairy or coconut cream
Serving Ideas
This fresh crispy salsa is perfect when combined with flame grilled meats especially chicken and fish to add more flavor during eating time. It also works as an excellent taco topping or over burrito bowls as well as salads that consist greens only for those who want something light and refreshing on hot days. Another way to eat it is as an accompaniment with pita chips or within a thick sandwich.
Conclusion
Crunchy Salsa with Fresh Cucumbers is an adaptable summer appetizer in itself and can be consumed alongside numerous other dishes. It has become a preference for many during gatherings at the beach because it is light and tasty. Dip it, season it; this is a recipe that will keep you coming back. Enjoy a tasty and crunchy treat made from the cucumber.
