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🌞 Why This Pineapple Cucumber Tomato Salad is a BBQ MVP
When it comes to summer barbecues, we often think of grilled mains — but it’s the sides that truly make the meal. This Pineapple Cucumber Tomato BBQ Salad is bright, colorful, and bursting with bold flavors. It’s refreshingly sweet, tangy, hydrating, and made entirely with plant-based ingredients — making it perfect for almost any diet.
This chilled salad balances the sweetness of pineapple, the crunch of cucumber, and the acidic pop of ripe tomatoes, all wrapped in a zesty lime dressing. It’s alcohol-free, pork-free, and made with simple whole foods that come together in under 15 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients List
For the Salad:
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1½ cups fresh pineapple, diced into bite-sized chunks
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1 large cucumber (or 2 Persian cucumbers), diced
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1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
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2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion (optional)
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1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or mint, chopped
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Pinch of sea salt
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Cracked black pepper to taste
For the Lime Chili Dressing:
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Juice of 2 limes (about 3–4 tablespoons)
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1 teaspoon lime zest
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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½ teaspoon chili flakes or Tajín seasoning
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½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness balance)
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Salt to taste
🔥 Pro Tip: If serving this salad at a BBQ, chill all ingredients for 30–60 minutes before mixing to keep everything crisp and cold!
🥗 How to Make Pineapple Cucumber Tomato Salad
Step 1 – Prep Your Produce
Wash and dry all vegetables and fruits. Dice the pineapple and cucumber into small, even chunks. Halve the tomatoes. If using red onion, mince it finely to avoid overpowering the dish.
🍍 Use fresh pineapple for best flavor. Avoid canned pineapple packed in syrup—it will be too sweet and soft.
Step 2 – Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, chili flakes (or Tajín), and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Add a pinch of salt and taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3 – Combine and Toss
Add the pineapple, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently. Finish with chopped cilantro or mint and a few cracks of black pepper.
🧊 Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving. Best enjoyed chilled!
🥄 Serving Suggestions
This salad shines as a BBQ side dish but is also versatile enough for:
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Taco night – use as a fresh salsa or topping
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Grain bowls – pair with quinoa, couscous, or bulgur
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Mezze platters – alongside hummus, pita, olives, and grilled veggies
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Light lunch – top with grilled tofu or chickpeas for added protein
💡 Recipe Variations & Additions
Swap Ingredients:
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Mango or papaya instead of pineapple for a tropical twist
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English cucumber for extra crunch
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Grape tomatoes or heirloom cherry tomatoes for color variety
Add More Herbs:
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Fresh mint for a cooling effect
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Basil for an Italian fusion vibe
Spice It Up:
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Add a few thin slices of fresh jalapeño
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Mix in a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the dressing
🌱 Nutrition Benefits
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Pineapple: High in vitamin C, bromelain (an anti-inflammatory enzyme), and antioxidants
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Cucumber: Hydrating and rich in vitamin K
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Tomatoes: Loaded with lycopene and vitamin A
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Lime: Great source of vitamin C and natural detoxifier
This salad is also:
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Vegan (swap honey for maple syrup)
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Gluten-free
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Nut-free
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Low-calorie, yet satisfying
🧊 Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The fruit will release some juice, so give it a quick stir before serving again. This salad is not freezer-friendly, as the textures will become soggy.
🥶 Make the dressing in advance and store separately for up to 3 days in the fridge to save prep time.
❓FAQs About Pineapple Cucumber Tomato Salad
Can I make this salad the night before a BBQ?
Yes, but for best texture, prepare the dressing and chopped ingredients separately. Combine them 30 minutes before serving.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
No problem! Swap it for mint, parsley, or simply omit the herbs.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh is preferred for taste and texture, but if using canned, choose one packed in 100% juice and drain it well.
Is this salad spicy?
The chili flakes or Tajín add a mild kick. Adjust or omit based on your heat preference.
Is it safe for kids?
Absolutely! It’s fruity, fresh, and customizable. Just skip the chili flakes if they’re sensitive to spice.
🔥 Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Cucumber Tomato BBQ Salad is your new summer essential — easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to cool things down while spicing things up. It’s ideal for anyone avoiding pork, alcohol, or heavy sides, yet it’s anything but boring.
Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, attending a potluck, or just need a refreshing lunch on a hot day, this juicy salad delivers maximum impact with minimal effort.
