Crunchy Cucumber Slaw with Jalapeño

Name: Crunchy Cucumber Slaw with Jalapeño
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; 1 jalapeño, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Bright & Healthy Bites

I love making Crunchy Cucumber Slaw with Jalapeño as a refreshing side dish that adds a punch to any meal. The crispness of the cucumbers combined with the spicy heat from jalapeños creates a delightful contrast. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it's a quick go-to whenever I want something vibrant to accompany my favorite dishes. The balance of acidity and heat makes it especially enjoyable during warm weather, and it's a surefire way to liven up any picnic or barbecue.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:09:27.994Z

When I first made this crunchy cucumber slaw, I was amazed at how simple components could turn into something extraordinary. The fresh cucumbers offer a satisfying crunch, while the jalapeños bring just the right amount of heat. It’s a great way to use up extra garden vegetables, and I've found that different varieties of cucumbers can subtly alter the final flavors.

I often experiment with the dressing, mixing in a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh lime juice for an extra twist. It’s the kind of dish that feels vibrant and light, perfect for hot summer days or as a zingy accompaniment to heavier meals. Trust me, once you try this slaw, you'll want to whip it up again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing crunch from fresh cucumbers
A perfect blend of spicy and tangy flavors
Quick and easy to prepare with just a few ingredients

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality cucumbers is essential for this slaw. Look for firm, unblemished cucumbers that have a vibrant green color. If you can, try to find English cucumbers; their thin skin and smaller seeds make for a crunchier and more enjoyable texture. Avoid cucumbers that feel soft or have wrinkles, as they can indicate a lack of freshness and may lead to a soggier slaw.

The jalapeño adds not only heat but also a bright flavor that complements the cucumbers. Depending on your spice tolerance, you can adjust the amount you use. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using just half of the jalapeño or removing the seeds. For those who love heat, try pairing it with a serrano pepper for an extra kick!

Dressing Techniques for Maximum Flavor

When whisking together the dressing, aim for a balance between the acid from the vinegar and lime juice and the richness from the olive oil. Start with the rice vinegar first, adding it gradually to avoid overwhelming the other flavors. The dressing should have a glossy appearance once well-mixed, providing a hint of the refreshing tang you can expect in the final dish.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider infusing your olive oil with garlic or herbs before adding it to the dressing. This can elevate the overall taste profile without much effort. Just remember to follow with a quick taste test; if it's too sharp, a touch more olive oil can mellow it out.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal

This slaw pairs beautifully with many dishes, particularly grilled meats or fish. I love serving it alongside tacos or barbecued chicken, where the heat and acidity of the slaw contrast perfectly with the smoky richness of the proteins. You can also serve it in a crunchy lettuce wrap for a lighter option or as a topping for sandwiches.

If you're looking to make this slaw ahead of time, it's best to prepare it without the dressing and store the components separately. Once you're ready to serve, combine the cucumbers, jalapeños, and cilantro with the dressing to maintain that wonderful crunch and freshness. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, but keep in mind that the cucumbers will release moisture over time, so enjoy it sooner for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients for a delightful slaw:

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 jalapeño, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix everything together for a delicious slaw!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your slaw:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture. Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are coated. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately.

This slaw is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a short time.

Pro Tips

For a milder slaw, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before chopping. You can also add shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover slaw, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about two days. However, be aware that the cucumbers will soften over time as they absorb moisture from the dressing. For optimal crunch, it's best enjoyed within the first 24 hours after preparation.

To refresh the slaw before serving any leftovers, give it a gentle toss and add a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors. This lightening touch helps revive the freshness that may diminish after a day or two.

Variations You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! Consider adding shredded carrots or red cabbage for added color and a different type of crunch. You can also try incorporating fruits like mango or pineapple, which will add a sweet contrast to the spiciness of the jalapeño and the tartness of the dressing.

For a unique twist, try using different herbs such as mint or parsley in place of cilantro. Each herb will lend its own distinctive flavor profile, showcasing versatility in this simple yet vibrant dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the vegetables a few hours in advance and mix the dressing just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for rice vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if you don't have rice vinegar on hand.

→ How spicy is this slaw?

The spiciness depends on the jalapeño used. For less heat, you can use fewer jalapeños or substitute with a mild pepper.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Shredded carrots, red cabbage, or bell peppers would be wonderful additions to this slaw.