This Chili Lime Jicama and Cucumber Salad is the perfect dish for a hot summer day. The combination of crunchy jicama and cool cucumber, dressed with zesty lime and chili powder, creates a fresh and satisfying snack or side dish. The cilantro garnish adds a touch of green, making this salad as beautiful as it is delicious.
Its vibrant colors and light yet flavorful profile make it a perfect addition to any picnic or BBQ, or simply as a healthy snack to enjoy any time. The bright chili-lime dressing complements the natural sweetness of the jicama and cucumber, offering a balance of heat, citrus, and crunch. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and tasty salad that doesn’t require cooking.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups jicama, peeled and julienned
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2 cups cucumber, peeled and sliced
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1/4 teaspoon cumin
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt, to taste
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Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the jicama and cucumber slices.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and olive oil.
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Pour the dressing over the jicama and cucumber mixture and toss well to coat evenly.
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Season with salt to taste.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to chill before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 65 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Salad
There are so many reasons why Chili Lime Jicama and Cucumber Salad deserves a spot on your menu. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. No cooking required – just chop and toss, and you have a salad that’s bursting with flavor. The crunchiness of jicama paired with the coolness of cucumber creates a satisfying texture that’s both light and refreshing. The chili-lime dressing adds a kick of heat and tang, while the cilantro adds a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the vegetables. This combination of flavors makes it an irresistible dish, especially during hot weather.
This salad is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Both jicama and cucumber are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. Jicama, also known as Mexican turnip, is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it great for digestive health and boosting the immune system. Cucumber, on the other hand, is hydrating due to its high water content and is also a great source of vitamin K and potassium. When combined, they create a nutrient-rich salad that’s perfect for those who are mindful of their health.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the great things about this salad is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, a casual lunch, or a family dinner, this Chili Lime Jicama and Cucumber Salad fits seamlessly into any occasion. The light and fresh nature of the salad makes it an excellent side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or fish. You can also serve it as a stand-alone snack for a refreshing mid-day pick-me-up or as a healthy appetizer before a main course.
If you’re planning a summer picnic or gathering, this salad is a fantastic addition to your menu. It’s easy to transport, and it holds up well in the fridge, making it a great dish to prep in advance. Additionally, since this salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, it’s suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone at your table can enjoy it.
A Twist of Heat and Freshness
The combination of chili powder and lime juice in this recipe is what truly sets it apart from other salads. The chili powder adds a mild heat that’s perfectly balanced by the tangy lime juice, making each bite an exciting burst of flavor. If you’re a fan of spicy foods, you can easily adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste. For a more intense heat, add a little extra chili powder, or if you prefer something milder, reduce the amount.
The lime juice doesn’t just provide a tangy flavor, but it also helps to balance the heat from the chili powder, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Lime is often used in Mexican cuisine, where it pairs beautifully with chili in a variety of dishes, and this salad is no exception. The addition of fresh cilantro ties everything together, offering a burst of green freshness that enhances the salad’s overall flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits of Jicama and Cucumber
As mentioned earlier, both jicama and cucumber are incredibly nutritious and offer several health benefits. Jicama is a root vegetable that is low in calories and rich in fiber, which makes it great for digestion. It’s also high in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which helps support the immune system and fights inflammation. Additionally, jicama has a low glycemic index, meaning it won’t cause a sharp spike in blood sugar levels, making it a great choice for those managing diabetes or looking to maintain stable energy levels.
Cucumber is made up of about 95% water, which makes it highly hydrating, especially in warm weather. This vegetable is rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium, which help support heart health, regulate blood pressure, and promote bone health. The water content also makes cucumber an excellent food for weight loss, as it provides volume without contributing many calories. Eating cucumber regularly can also support healthy skin, thanks to its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Easy Variations to Customize Your Salad
While this recipe is fantastic on its own, you can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, if you want to add some extra crunch, consider tossing in some toasted nuts like almonds or pepitas. You could also add a handful of diced avocado for a creamy texture and additional healthy fats. For more color, you can mix in some thinly sliced bell peppers or even a small amount of red onion.
If you prefer a bit more protein in your salad, consider adding some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. This salad is so versatile that you can adapt it to suit your taste, making it the perfect dish for anyone looking to get creative in the kitchen.
Make Ahead and Meal Prep Friendly
Another great feature of this Chili Lime Jicama and Cucumber Salad is that it’s perfect for meal prep. Since the ingredients are fresh and don’t require cooking, it’s easy to assemble a batch and store it in the fridge for a few days. The flavors of the dressing will continue to develop and marinate the vegetables, enhancing the taste over time. However, to prevent the cucumber and jicama from getting soggy, it’s a good idea to store the dressing separately and toss it with the vegetables right before serving.
Meal prep can be a real time-saver, and this salad is an excellent option for those looking for quick, healthy, and portable lunches throughout the week. You can pair it with your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own for a light, satisfying meal.
Conclusion: A Salad That Delivers on Taste and Health
In conclusion, Chili Lime Jicama and Cucumber Salad is a must-try for anyone looking for a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish. Its vibrant combination of crunchy vegetables, zesty dressing, and fresh cilantro creates a salad that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish, a snack, or a main meal, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking.
Not only does this salad taste amazing, but it’s also packed with nutrients, including fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, making it a great choice for those looking to nourish their bodies with fresh, whole foods. The ease of preparation and the ability to make it ahead of time makes it an excellent addition to your meal planning rotation.
So, next time you’re craving something light and refreshing, try this Chili Lime Jicama and Cucumber Salad. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, and one that your friends and family will ask for time and time again.