20 Crisp and Creative Cucumber Salad Recipes to Keep You Cool

What do you do with those speckled bananas sitting on the counter? You turn them into banana bread magic. Beloved for its moist crumb, rich flavor, and nostalgic charm, banana bread is the kind of bake that never goes out of style. In this roundup, we’re sharing the best banana bread recipes—each one offering a new way to enjoy this cozy classic.

1. Gochujang Cucumber Salad

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Sweet heat, crunch, and umami—that’s what makes this gochujang cucumber salad unforgettable. The cucumbers are sliced Hasselback-style to soak in every drop of the spicy-sour dressing, while toasted sesame seeds and scallions add texture and bite. The real game-changer? That chili oil slicked with gochujang—fiery, rich, and deeply satisfying. To recreate this at home, don’t skip letting the cucumbers sit in salt first—it’s key for crunch and flavor absorption.

2. Smashed Cucumber Salad

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What makes this smashed cucumber salad so addictive? It’s all about that rustic texture—smashing releases the cucumber’s juices, letting the light soy-garlic dressing cling to every craggy surface. Fresh cilantro adds brightness and depth, while sesame seeds lend a subtle nutty crunch. Tip: use the side of a cleaver or rolling pin for the perfect smash—messy is the goal!

3. Cantaloupe Cucumber Salad

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Looking for a cucumber salad with a twist? This cantaloupe version bursts with contrast—sweet, juicy melon meets crisp cucumber, balanced perfectly by tangy feta and cooling mint. A drizzle of lime and crack of black pepper ties it all together for a light, summery bite. Pro tip: keep everything chilled for peak refreshment on hot days.

4. Smoked Salmon Cucumber Salad

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It’s hard not to feel instantly fancy with this smoked salmon cucumber salad on your plate. The creamy dressing clings to the crunchy cucumber rounds and buttery flakes of salmon, while red onion adds bite and sesame seeds round it out with nutty flair. The combo is rich yet refreshing—perfect for a no-fuss brunch or chic appetizer. Want that velvety texture? Go for a yogurt-mayo base with a squeeze of lemon.

5. Dill Cucumber Salad

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Creamy, tangy, and speckled with dill—this cucumber salad is a classic for good reason. Each slice is perfectly coated in a sour cream or yogurt dressing, with just the right punch of vinegar and the herbal lift of dried dill. It’s cool, comforting, and ridiculously easy to whip up. Want that nostalgic picnic vibe? Chill it well and serve with grilled meats or sandwiches.

6. Garlic Cucumber Salad

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Garlicky, crisp, and deeply savory—this cucumber salad doesn’t hold back on flavor. Thin cucumber slices soak up a soy-based dressing laced with fresh garlic, toasted sesame, and green onions for that punchy umami edge. It’s quick, bold, and wildly refreshing. Want extra zing? Add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of chili flakes for heat.

7. Cucumber Avocado Salad

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Avocado’s creaminess meets cucumber’s crunch in this stunning salad that feels both luxurious and light. Dill fronds and pickled red onions add aromatic brightness and a tangy contrast, while sesame seeds and sumac sprinkle in nutty, lemony depth. The textures dance—soft, crisp, and everything in between. Try this as a refreshing side or piled onto toasted sourdough for a breezy lunch.

8. Peanut Chilli Cucumber Salad

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Peanut lovers, this one’s for you—this cucumber salad brings a bold, spicy kick with creamy peanut-chili dressing hugging every slice. The balance of crunchy cucumbers and nutty richness, topped with sesame seeds, makes each bite irresistible. It’s like satay meets summer salad—cool, fiery, and full of texture. Want extra depth? Add a splash of soy sauce and a hint of lime.

9. Creamy German Cucumber Salad

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To achieve this traditional German cucumber salad, focus on tangy-smooth contrast—crisp cucumbers and red onions are swirled in a sour cream and vinegar dressing with a gentle kiss of fresh dill. The result? Light, cooling, and just tart enough to cut through hearty mains like schnitzel or roast. For the perfect texture, salt your cucumbers beforehand to draw out moisture.

10. Spiral Cucumber Salad

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The rustic beauty of this spiral cucumber salad lies in its playful cut and bold seasoning—each twist of cucumber holds onto that spicy, garlicky dressing like a sponge. Sprinkled with sesame seeds and a fiery dusting of chili flakes, it’s as visually stunning as it is punchy. That spiral cut isn’t just for looks—it amps up the flavor in every bite. Want to wow at your next BBQ? Serve this chilled as a vibrant side.

11. Yogurt Cucumber Salad

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Imagine the coolness of yogurt melting into crisp cucumber slices—this salad is refreshment in a bowl. The creamy dressing, speckled with dill and hints of garlic, creates a tangy, velvety contrast to the crunch. It’s simple, timeless, and endlessly versatile. For extra brightness, stir in lemon zest or a splash of white wine vinegar.

12. Mint Cucumber Salad

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Sunshine in a bowl—that’s what this mint cucumber salad feels like. The creamy dressing is lifted by the brightness of fresh mint, turning crisp cucumbers into a refreshing summer dream. Every bite is cool, herby, and perfectly mellow. Want to enhance it? Add a pinch of salt and a splash of lemon juice for a zesty finish.

13. Vietnamese Cucumber Salad

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Crisp, zesty, and layered with herbs—this Vietnamese cucumber salad is all about fresh balance. Slices of cucumber are tossed with lime juice, fish sauce, and just enough sugar to brighten, while cilantro, mint, and roasted peanuts add crunch and depth. It’s vibrant and refreshing with a subtle savory edge. For an authentic touch, thinly slice a chili and toss it in!

14. California Cucumber Salad

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Looking for that sushi roll vibe without the rice? This California cucumber salad delivers with creamy chunks of imitation crab, crisp cucumber slices, and a drizzle of spicy mayo dressing. Black and white sesame seeds add the signature crunch and toasty flavor you crave. Want to level it up? Toss in avocado and a splash of rice vinegar for that full California roll experience.

15. Carrot Cucumber Salad

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Ribbons of carrot and cucumber make this salad as elegant as it is refreshing. Tossed in a light sesame-soy dressing with green onions, cilantro, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it’s full of crunch and zing. The textures are playful and the flavors bright—perfect for pairing with grilled dishes or as a light lunch. Pro tip: Use a veggie peeler to get those perfect, tender strips.

16. Greek Cucumber Salad

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Looking for bold, sun-drenched flavor? This Greek cucumber salad brings it with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, sharp red onions, and creamy feta crumbles—all tied together with a lemony herb dressing. Crunchy cucumber balances the richness perfectly, while dill adds a fresh, Mediterranean lift. For extra authenticity, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.

17. Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

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Color, crunch, and coastal flavor shine in this Mediterranean cucumber salad. Juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy Kalamata olives mingle with fresh herbs and a zesty vinaigrette that wakes up every bite. Red onion adds just the right kick to balance the brine. Want a heartier version? Toss in chickpeas or crumbled feta.

18. Vegan Cucumber Salad

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Earthy, spicy, and totally plant-powered—this vegan cucumber salad is a texture-lover’s dream. Diced cucumbers are tossed with crushed peanuts, toasted coconut, and chili flakes, creating a bold mix that’s savory, nutty, and just a little fiery. Fresh herbs like cilantro tie it all together with a pop of green. Want more depth? Add a splash of lime juice and a dash of soy sauce.

19. Lemon Poppy Dressing Cucumber Salad

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Delicate, zesty, and almost too pretty to eat—this cucumber salad with lemon poppy dressing is pure garden elegance. Thin cucumber slices are gently bathed in a tangy-sweet citrus dressing, dotted with poppy seeds for texture and visual charm. Edible flowers and fresh herbs like fennel fronds and scallions turn it into a centerpiece. Want to impress guests? Serve this chilled on pastel plates at your next brunch.

20. Pasta Cucumber Salad

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Why settle for basic pasta salad when you can have this cucumber-loaded upgrade? Crisp cucumbers and red onions add a refreshing crunch to spiral pasta, while sesame seeds, chili oil, and cilantro bring bold, Asian-inspired flair. The sweet-spicy balance makes it exciting with every forkful. Want a summer-ready main? Serve it cold with a splash of rice vinegar and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.