Refreshing Pineapple Salad is a vibrant and tropical medley of sweet pineapple chunks, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion, all brought together with a zesty lime-chili dressing. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and optional chili for a kick, this salad offers a perfectly balanced mix of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that’s ideal for summer meals, BBQs, and light lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is a celebration of bold, fresh flavors and contrasting textures. The juicy pineapple adds sweetness, the avocado lends creaminess, and the cucumber provides a cooling crunch. A quick lime-based vinaigrette adds brightness and ties everything together. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and takes just minutes to prepare. Whether you’re entertaining or meal-prepping, this salad is a light and satisfying choice that stands out on any table.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
- avocado, diced
- cucumber, thinly sliced
- red onion, thinly sliced
- red chili or jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
- lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- olive oil
- honey or maple syrup
- salt and pepper to taste
directions
- In a large bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, diced avocado, sliced cucumber, red onion, chopped chili (if using), and fresh herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve fresh as a side dish or a light, tropical appetizer.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes plus chilling
Calories per Serving: Approximately 160 kcal
Variations
- Add protein: Mix in grilled shrimp or chicken for a more substantial meal.
- Tropical twist: Include mango or papaya for extra sweetness and variety.
- Crunch factor: Add toasted coconut flakes, sunflower seeds, or chopped nuts for texture.
- Spicy version: Use extra chili or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing.
- Mint option: Swap out or mix with cilantro for a cooling herbal twist.
storage/reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Due to the avocado, some browning may occur over time. Stir gently before serving. Do not freeze or reheat, as the fresh ingredients are best served cold.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh pineapple is preferred for texture and flavor, but canned (drained) can be used in a pinch.
Is this salad vegan?
Yes, just use maple syrup instead of honey to make it fully plant-based.
What’s the best way to keep avocado from browning?
Toss it in the lime juice immediately after cutting to slow oxidation.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add the avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.
How spicy is this salad?
The spice level depends on the type and amount of chili used. You can omit it for a milder version.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What herbs work best?
Cilantro offers a bold, fresh flavor, while parsley or mint provide milder alternatives.
Can I serve this as a main dish?
Yes, especially when paired with a protein like grilled shrimp, tofu, or chicken.
Can I add a grain to make it heartier?
Yes, quinoa or bulgur can be added to turn it into a more filling salad.
What dishes pair well with pineapple salad?
It complements grilled meats, seafood, tacos, or other tropical-themed dishes.
Conclusion
Refreshing Pineapple Salad is a perfect mix of vibrant colors, tropical flavors, and light, crisp textures. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a standout side for warm-weather dining or any time you want to add brightness to your meal. Whether served at a backyard cookout or as a light lunch, this salad offers a refreshing taste of summer in every bite.
Print
Refreshing Pineapple Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes + chill
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Refreshing Pineapple Salad is a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy tropical dish made with pineapple, avocado, cucumber, red onion, and herbs tossed in a lime-chili dressing—perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or light lunches.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red chili or jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine pineapple, avocado, cucumber, red onion, chili (if using), and herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve fresh as a side or light appetizer.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm avocado to avoid mushiness when mixing.
- For extra zing, add a pinch of chili flakes or more lime juice.
- Goes great with grilled shrimp or chicken as a tropical side.
- Best served the same day for optimal texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
