Cucumber Slices
A quintessential Indian side salad, these crisp cucumber slices are tossed in a zesty mix of lemon juice, chaat masala, and fresh cilantro. This refreshing 'kachumber'-style salad provides a cooling contrast to spicy curries and is ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Wash the cucumber thoroughly under cool running water. Trim both ends. You can peel it completely, partially in stripes for a decorative look, or leave the skin on for extra fiber and color.
Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, slice the cucumber into thin, uniform rounds, about 1/8-inch (3mm) thick. Place the slices in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Just before serving, add the lemon juice, chaat masala, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl with the cucumber slices.
Add the optional finely chopped cilantro and green chili if using. Gently toss everything together until the cucumber slices are evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best crispness.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For maximum crispness, use chilled cucumbers and serve the salad immediately after preparing.
- 2Salt draws water out of cucumbers. Always season just before serving to prevent the slices from becoming soggy.
- 3Use Persian or English cucumbers as they have thinner skin and fewer seeds, making them ideal for salads.
- 4A mandoline slicer is excellent for achieving perfectly uniform, thin slices quickly and easily.
Adapt it for your goals.
Kachumber Salad
Transform this into a classic kachumber by adding 1 finely chopped medium tomato and 1 finely chopped small red onion along with the cucumber.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For extra heat, add a pinch of red chili powder (Lal Mirch) along with the other spices.
Cucumber RaitaCucumber Raita
For a creamy version, skip the lemon juice and chaat masala. Instead, mix the cucumber slices into 1 cup of whisked plain yogurt (curd) and season with roasted cumin powder and salt.
Minty FreshMinty Fresh
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the cilantro for an extra layer of cooling freshness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Hydration
Cucumbers are composed of about 96% water, making them an excellent food for promoting hydration, especially during hot weather or after a workout.
Low in Calories
With very few calories per serving, this salad is a perfect choice for weight management and healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cucumbers contain antioxidants, including flavonoids and tannins, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Aids in Digestion
The combination of water and fiber in cucumbers can help support healthy digestion and promote regular bowel movements.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while lemon juice provides Vitamin C. It's a light, refreshing, and nutrient-rich side dish.