If you’re on the hunt for something cool and crunchy for the summer, look no further than these sensational and easy cucumber recipes.
I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of dishes that let the classic cuke shine. And no, it’s not just cucumber salads!
Cucumber Recipes We Can’t Live Without
How many times have you bought a cucumber only to have it go soft in the fridge?
I mean, there are only so many salads you can eat, right?
Luckily, I’ve found some fantastic recipes that are crazy-versatile, and they use all different types of cucumbers, too.
From poke bowls and salsa to popsicles and even cocktails, these cucumber recipes will leave you feeling cool as a, well, cucumber.
1. Cucumber Salad
This cucumber salad is an example of simplicity at its best
Thinly sliced cukes bathe in a tangy vinaigrette bursting with savory, fresh flavors.
This light salad is a dream come true for summer dinners on the patio.
2. Crunchy Thai Quinoa Salad
This Thai quinoa salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Imagine serving this colorful bowl to your grateful dinner guests. It’ll be gone in a flash!
3. Banh Mi Cucumber Subs
Okay, how cute are these Banh Mi cucumber subs?
This fun twist on the classic Vietnamese sammie is innovative, delicious, and saves you from going too heavy on the carbs.
We all know that familiar post-bread-bloat after indulging in a Banh Mi. But this fresh recipe will leave you energized enough to get in an evening swim.
4. Cucumber Sandwiches
These cucumber sandwiches are so darn cute and make the perfect addition to any brunch or afternoon tea party.
You only need a handful of ingredients to transport you to cucumber sandwich heaven.
5. Cucumber Onion Salad
Are you getting a little tired of the same old boring garden salad? This cucumber and onion salad is sure to shake up your weekly dinner rotation.
Each bite will blow your palate away with tangy, herbal flavors, making this the perfect crunchy appetizer for summer dinners.
6. Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad
If there’s one flavor combination I love, it’s sweet and sour. With this recipe, you get the best of this dynamic duo.
Best of all, you can achieve sweet and sour perfection using only six ingredients.
This recipe is simple and easy enough to make even during the hottest of heatwaves.
7. Crisp Cucumber Salsa Recipe
Cucumber in a salsa? It might seem strange, but imagine how much freshness the classic veggie can bring to the spicy sauce.
Cucumbers take salsa to a whole new level, making this one fresh dish.
8. Cucumber Noodle Salad with Shrimp
Too hot to cook? Then it’s time to get some use out of that Spiralizer and make some cucumber noodles.
Cucumber noodles are easy to make (if you have the right equipment), but they also make a fantastic alternative to pasta.
This recipe pairs cold noodles with shrimp for the ultimate noodle salad sensation!
9. Classic Potato Salad
Nothing says summer like a big bowl of classic potato salad.
Potatoes might be the star of the show here, but the award for best supporting role goes to cucumbers!
This recipe adds some cooked cukes to the mix to add a fresh crunch to every bite.
10. Watermelon, Cucumber, And Feta Salad Cups
If you’re looking for a light, fresh, and fun app to serve during your next patio party, this recipe is for you.
I mean, does it get any cuter than these pretty pink cups?
11. Cucumber Avocado Vegetarian Pita Sandwich
If you’re searching for a healthy, vegetarian lunch idea, you can’t go wrong with this cucumber and avocado pita sandwich.
I often find that veggie wraps are a bit on the boring side. But not this one!
This wrap is creamy, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying. And hey, if you need a kick of protein, go ahead and add some chicken.
12. Cucumber Mango Salsa
No summer is complete without this cucumber mango salsa.
Each bite is brimming with sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that will transport your palate to a tropical paradise.
Not only is this recipe absolutely delish, but it’s super versatile too! You can use this salsa as a topping for nachos, burgers, and wraps.
Or just eat it by the spoonful as a tasty summer salad.
13. Asian Cucumber Salad
This Asian cucumber salad is so simple, it’s sure to become a staple in your house during the summer.
All you need are cucumbers, a few spices, and oils from your pantry to prepare this beautiful salad.
It makes a great appetizer or side dish for a meat-heavy main entree. Or you can whip it up whenever you need a fresh, simple snack.
14. Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Bowls
I’m obsessed with noodle bowls. They’re filling, easy to make, and beyond delicious. If you share this obsession, read on.
This Vietnamese chicken noodle bowl recipe creates the perfect lunch that you can quickly meal prep for the week ahead.
It’s full of fresh greens, crunchy cukes, and citrusy chicken to accentuate the noodles in the best way possible.
15. Farro Salad with Feta
This Mediterranean salad will instantly transport you into a seaside state of mind.
There’s no need to book an expensive vacation to Greece. This salad is loaded with enough bright, citrusy flavors that you’ll feel like you’re already there.
Of course, it would taste even better if you made it in a Greek kitchen with a fresh sea breeze floating inside.
16. Cucumber Cooler Cocktails
If you’ve never tried cucumber in a drink before, you’re missing out. And no, I don’t mean cucumber water or green juice!
This cucumber cooler pairs fresh cukes with gin to create a wonderfully botanical cocktail.
The cucumber, gin, mint, and lime blend is super crisp and not too sweet. It’s perfect for G&T lovers!
17. Creamy Cucumber Salad (with Cottage Cheese)
This creamy cucumber salad basically represents Spring in a bowl.
Full of fresh, herbal flavors that are symbolic of the season, it’ll be a hit at your next garden party.
18. Rainbow Fresh Rolls
These rainbow rolls are appropriately named; the bright, stunning colors make this dish feast to behold.
If you’re looking to add some color to your table, this recipe will accomplish all that and more.
Just be sure you make enough because I have a feeling they’ll be gobbled up fast!
19. Quick Pickled Cucumber
If you’ve never tried pickled cucumber, consider this a sign to do so.
These pickled cukes taste similar to pickles. They both use cucumbers as a base, after all.
The main difference is that sliced cucumbers make a better topping.
This recipe creates the perfect garnish for any hot dog, sandwich, wrap – you name it!
20. Chicken Larb Thai
This flavorful salad uses minced chicken, lime juice, and fresh herbs to create a beautiful lunch for any occasion.
In under 30 minutes, you can whip together this tasty bowl for an easy-yet-tasty meal.
21. Greek Salad
Believe it or not, you only need seven ingredients to prepare this beautiful salad.
My favorite thing about this recipe is that it uses veggies that are in season at the same time.
So, if you’re a little tired of the same old kale salad, this is the dish for you.
22. Watermelon Salad with Feta and Cucumber
One of my favorite salad combinations is watermelon, feta, and cucumber.
But where the recipe above is ideal for bite-sized summer snacking, this recipe is designed for a family-style dinner.
Tossed in one big bowl, the sweet watermelon balances wonderfully with the creamy feta and fresh, crunchy cuke.
Together, these three ingredients shine, making the perfect summer sensation.
Plonk that big bowl in the middle of the table and watch as your family fights over the last spoonful.
23. Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
If you think cucumbers lack flavor, think again.
This recipe is proof that cucumbers are anything from bland, so long as you season them properly.
Every forkful of this salad brims with flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
Serve it alongside those rainbow rolls for a complete and tasty dinner.
24. Cucumber Rose Aperol Spritz
Tired of the same old Aperol spritz? This recipe will shake up your cocktail game.
This variation adds a unique floral flavor with cucumber and rose, which complement the bitter-sweetness of Aperol.
25. Cucumber Mint Slushie
This cucumber mint slushie might look like that green smoothie you choke down every morning, but the taste is so much better.
Combining cucumbers, mint, lime, honey, and ice creates the perfect mocktail for the summer season.
Go ahead and add a glug of gin if you want something more grown-up.
26. Cucumber Radish Salad
This creamy cucumber salad is a fabulous way to achieve your daily dose of veggies.
It’s creamy and delicious with just a hint of peppery crunch.
This recipe is also a 5-ingredient-wonder, making it the perfect side dish for when you don’t feel like cooking.
27. Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ready to revamp your chicken salad? This recipe has you covered.
The best part about this salad is that you get so much bang for your buck.
Need to whip up a filling lunch for the fam? This recipe’s high yield makes it perfect for feeding a crowd.
28. Creamy Cucumber and Cabbage Cole Slaw (A Paleo Staple)
If you’re tired of the same old coleslaw, then take this recipe for a spin.
This tasty slaw uses fresh dill to add the perfect herbal bite to the otherwise bland dish.
Each bite is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for those balmy nights ahead.
29. Easy Garden Salad
Garden salads have a reputation of being a little too, well, plain. This recipe is changing that stereotype.
This salad is full of all sorts of seasonal veggies.
Why stop at lettuce and tomatoes when you can add radishes, cucumbers, and endives?
It’s a smart take on the old classic, and I know you’ll love it.
30. Cucumber Melon Smoothie
Have you ever wondered how your morning smoothie would taste with a touch of something green?
Then you need to try this excellent cucumber and melon recipe.
It’s super refreshing and tastier than you think. Not to mention the water content makes it pretty darn hydrating.
Just what you need if you’ve worked up a sweat in the gym.
It’s lightly sweetened and has a soothing cucumber flavor, making it perfect for post-workouts, beach days, or anytime you need a summertime pick-me-up.
31. Cucumber Sorbet
This recipe creates the ultimate warm-weather refresher.
If you want to recreate the spa experience at home, this cucumber sorbet will transport you into a blissful state of mind.
32. Vegetarian Club Sandwich
This vegetarian sandwich is far from boring.
The combination of avocado, cucumber, tempeh, and hummus make this one hearty meal between two pieces of bread.
School lunches will never be the same after one bite of this scrumptious sammie.
33. Cantaloupe Cucumber Salad
Stay hydrated this summer with this easy cantaloupe and cucumber salad recipe.
Refreshing, light, and nourishing, it’s the ideal side dish or light lunch to beat the heat.
34. Green Gazpacho
Gazpacho is one of my favorite summer meals, and this rendition is downright dreamy.
This green gazpacho uses avocado to add a little more thickness. There’s also some lemon to brighten the soup up.
It’s the ultimate fresh lunch that’s healthy and nourishing.
35. Strawberry, Lime, Cucumber, and Mint Infused Water
Why drink regular water when you can enjoy infused water?
In just a few simple steps, you can elevate your hydration game to a whole new level.
This recipe uses strawberry, lime, cucumber, and mint to create a flavorful drink that’s anything but boring.
36. Crunchy Thai Cucumber Salad
Here’s another excellent cuke dish that’s bursting with flavor.
The best part about this Thai cucumber salad is the peanut garnish. It adds even more crunch and texture to an already delicious dish.
37. Crispy Chicken Salad
Can you believe this crispy chicken salad takes just 25 minutes to make? I didn’t either!
If you’re like me and prefer your chicken crispy but want to balance it with some greens, then this is the recipe for you.
It’s a hearty, healthy lunch for any day of the week.
38. Tuna Poke Bowl
Poke bowls are an easy way to add a little freshness to your day, and they’re actually super easy to make.
This one, in particular, uses a base of tuna, rice, avocado, and cucumber to create a well-rounded meal.
And unless you’re posting to the ‘gram, you don’t need to worry about presentation. Just toss it all in the bowl and chow down!
39. Cucumber, Peach, and Basil Salad
This sweet salad makes a fun addition to any summer BBQ.
If you don’t love spinach or greens in general (it’s okay, this is a safe space), then this salad is a terrific alternative.
It uses a whole piece of peach, cucumber, and basil to create a zesty dish that’s sure to please your palate.
40. Spicy Cucumber Margarita
Looking for a drink that’ll keep your tastebuds guessing? I have just the thing!
Tequila, lime juice, cucumbers, and jalapeños come together in one glass to create a spicy and fresh margarita that you’ll fall for at first sip.
This drink will undoubtedly make a statement at your next backyard bash.
41. Bread and Butter Pickles
If you just don’t deal with dill, then bread and butter pickles are a delicious way to enjoy the popular condiment.
There’s nothing better than the sweet crunch of a pickle. And these are loaded with tangy, spicy goodness.
Between the mustard seeds and turmeric, you’ll want to put these on everything.
42. Lemon Herb Couscous Salad
This simple salad is ready to become your new favorite light lunch.
All you need are cucumbers, herbs, and a simple lemon vinaigrette.
Each bite will satisfy your palate with an array of textures and flavors. And it’s incredible with a fresh, hot roasted chicken.
43. Cucumber Raita
This Indian side dish is my secret weapon. It turns a simple curry dinner into a sensational feast.
The best part about Raita is that it’s so incredibly versatile. You can use it as a dip, a topping, or even enjoy it by the spoonful.
44. Cucumber Salad with Cilantro and Lime
This easy salad pairs perfectly with so many things!
It’s cool, refreshing, and a great addition to grilled fish or meat.
You can also use it as a delicious sandwich topping or spoon it over a bed of rice for a leisurely light lunch.
The options are endless!
45. Tzatziki (Yogurt & Cucumber Dip)
Tzatziki is a fantastic dip that basically epitomizes freshness.
It’s also super simple to whip up. All you need is some yogurt, cucumber, oil, and spices to create the timeless tzatziki.
I like it over chicken or lamb, but it works with almost anything.
46. Lemon Cucumber Popsicles
These lemon and cucumber popsicles are basically a frozen detox on a stick!
Ranking at only 12 calories per serving, this summer treat is a great way to get your chill on without breaking the bank in the health department.
And they’re especially ideal if you want something that’s not too sweet.
Top-tip: add a glug of white rum to the mix and make them adult-only.
47. Summer Fresh Red Beet and Cucumber Salad
This delicious salad uses roasted red beets, crunchy cukes, and fragrant mint to create a sensational sensory experience for your palate.
The lemon-dijon vinaigrette adds the perfect zingy flavor, making this salad a summer home run.
48. Cucumber Lemon Granita
Are you seeking a sweet, icy treat to cool off on a sweltering day? Then this cucumber and lemon granita certainly fits the bill.
The sharp lemon blends perfectly with the cool, subtle cucumber, making this the perfect summertime snack.
49. Fattoush Salad
This fattoush salad combines tangy, bright flavors and works well all year round, but I love it during the summer.
It doesn’t need much prep, either.
It’s one of those recipes where you just throw everything together in a bowl and call it a day.
Who doesn’t need a dish like that when the weather gets humid?
50. Tiger Salad
This authentic Chinese dish makes the perfect savory side for your next dinner party.
It’s an easy cold dish that uses minimal effort. Just what you need when you have multiple courses to worry about.