Lebanese Cucumber Salad with Mint

If you’re looking for a fresh, fast, and fun salad, this one is it. This Lebanese cucumber salad with mint is full of bright flavor and a cool crunch—and it doesn’t have any tomatoes.

It’s made with just a few simple things: cucumbers, lemon, mint, and olive oil. It tastes light, fresh, and a little tangy, kind of like summer in a bowl.

Perfect for busy families, this salad is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It works well as a snack, a side dish, or part of a big meal.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Fresh and crunchy. Every bite is cool and crisp, thanks to juicy cucumbers and fresh lemon.
• Simple but tasty. Just a few ingredients that mix together really well.
• Quick to make. You can put it together in just minutes.
• Kid-friendly. No strong flavors, and you can make it fun with shapes or little dipping bowls.

What You Need (and Swaps if Needed)

• Cucumbers – Use seedless ones like Persian or English cucumbers. If you only have regular ones, peel them first so they don’t taste bitter.
• Fresh Mint – This adds a bright, clean flavor. No mint? You can try cilantro instead.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Gives it a sour zing. Lime or vinegar will also work if needed or skip it and use Sumac it has a lemony taste.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Smooth and fruity. Avocado oil is a good backup.
• Salt and Pepper – Just a pinch brings out all the natural flavors.

Pro Tips for Success

Cut the cucumbers evenly. This helps the salad look better and mix well.

Use fresh lemon juice. It gives the best flavor and smell.

If you are not eating immediatley take time to salt and press the excess water from the cucumbers with a paper towel. This will allow them to be crunchy after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

Lebanese Cucumber Salad with Mint Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 small cucumbers (Persian) or 1 large English cucumber, sliced
• 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced ( I used red onion for the colorO)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (remove green sprout)
• 15 fresh mint leaves, torn or chopped
• 2 tablespoons dried mint
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 to 2 lemons
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional : Aleppo Pepper for a beautiful color addition that is not spicy, but very mild. Unlike its look alike crushed red pepper.

Steps:

1. Wash and slice the cucumbers.
2. Add thinly sliced onion and minced garlic.
3. Add fresh and dried mint and if desired. aleppo pepper
4. Pour in olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Gently mix everything together.
7. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
8. Serve chilled.

Helpful Tools

Cutting board
Sharp knife
Mixing bowl
Citrus juicer or use your hands to squeeze juice
Serving bowl

Great Brands to Try

• Olive Oil: California Olive Ranch Extra Virgin Olive Oil – smooth and fresh
• Lemon Juice (if needed): Lakewood Organic Lemon Juice – no extra stuff added, I use just two fresh lemons.
• Cucumbers: Try a local farmers’ market or grocery store. Look for firm ones without soft spots.

Fun Ways to Mix It Up

• Creamy Yogurt Dressing – Add a spoonful of yogurt with garlic for a creamy twist.
• Add Red Onion – A little more color and flavor.
• Top with Toasted Pine Nuts – Crunchy and nutty.
• Keep it Vegan – This salad is already vegan, just fresh and simple.

What to Eat It With

• Grilled Meats, Kabobs– The salad keeps things light and fresh.
• Lebanese Mezze Platter – Add hummus, baba ghanoush, and pita bread.
• Stuffed Grape Leaves – The tangy salad goes well with soft rice and herbs.
• Lentil Soup – Warm soup and cool salad make a great pair.
• Or a hamburger! Its a salad, it goes with everything!

How to Store or Freeze

Don’t freeze it. The cucumbers will get soft and soggy.

Store it in the fridge in a closed container. Best within two days.

FAQs

• Can I use other herbs?
  Yes, cilantro works but it will make a completely different dish, but mint gives the best flavor for this dish. Try using and extra teaspoon of dried mint. I keep a bottle in the pantry. Love it!
• Is it keto-friendly?
  Yes, it’s low in carbs and very fresh.
• What is sumac?
  Sumac is a sour spice used in Middle Eastern food. It has a lemon-like flavor and a dark red color.
• Can I skip the lemon juice?
  Lemon gives the salad its fresh, tangy flavor. But if you need a backup, try a splash of white vinegar or the sumac!

A Note for Parents

Want to get your kids involved?

• Make it fun by cutting cucumbers into shapes. Think cucumber doughnuts! Or cucumber sticks!
• Let them dip cucumber slices into lemon juice like a fun taste test.
• Ask them to be the “super taster” and help you decide if the salad needs more lemon.
• This simple little salad brings big flavor and happy bites. It’s a fresh, easy way to enjoy real food with your family. Just a few good ingredients and a few minutes—and you’re done.

---