Description
Harissa cucumber onion salad is a vibrant, tangy salad combining crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, grated ginger, and a bold harissa dressing for a flavorful side dish or appetizer. Perfect for summer gatherings, light lunches, or as a homemade dish to elevate any meal. Easily paired with grilled meats, falafel, or Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
– 1 large cucumber (approximately 1.5 cups chopped; substitute English cucumber if needed)
– ½ red onion, thinly sliced (approximately ¼ cup)
For the Dressing:
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 3 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tbsp soy sauce (substitute tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free diets)
– 1 tbsp harissa (substitute sriracha or chili paste if needed)
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 2 tbsp sweetener (e.g., honey, maple syrup, or sugar; adjust to taste)
– 1 tsp oil (e.g., olive oil or neutral oil)
Optional Garnish:
– Black sesame seeds
– Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons. If using a garden cucumber, peel it in “stripes” for a decorative look. Thinly slice the red onion. Add both to a mixing bowl.
- Peel and grate ginger into a mason jar. Add rice vinegar, soy sauce, harissa, chili flakes, sweetener, and oil. Stir well until combined.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle with black sesame seeds and fresh parsley if desired.
- Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
– Use fresh cucumbers for maximum crunch. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1–2 days. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad / Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean / Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: ~80
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg