Introduction
This Tajin Cucumber Salad is a vibrant, no-cook side dish that masterfully balances tangy, spicy, and creamy flavors. You’ll love how the Tajin seasoning, with its unique blend of chile peppers, lime, and salt, transforms simple cucumbers into something extraordinary. It’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a quick, refreshing snack.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes (for marinating)
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 3 cucumbers
- 3 tbsp Tajin seasoning
- 1/2-3/4 cup mayonnaise
- cherry tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and dry the cucumbers. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them into thin rounds.
- Place the cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the Tajin seasoning over them and toss very well to ensure every slice is coated. Let the mixture sit for at least 15-20 minutes.
- The Tajin will draw moisture out of the cucumbers. After resting, drain and discard the excess liquid that has pooled at the bottom of the bowl.
- Add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise to the drained cucumbers and fold gently until evenly combined. For a creamier salad, add up to an additional 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, to your preference.
- If using, halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes and fold them into the salad just before serving.
Variations
- Cucumber Ribbons: Use a vegetable peeler to create long, thin ribbons of cucumber for an elegant presentation.
- Salad Cups: Serve the finished salad in small lettuce cups or endive leaves for an easy appetizer.
- Chilled Presentation: For an extra refreshing dish, chill the Tajin-coated cucumbers in the refrigerator for an hour before adding the mayonnaise.
- Dip-Style: Process the salad briefly with an immersion blender for a thicker, dip-like consistency perfect for chips or crudités.
Tips for Success
- Letting the Tajin-coated cucumbers rest and then draining the liquid is crucial; it prevents the final salad from becoming watery.
- Start with 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and add more only after tasting, as the Tajin provides plenty of flavor.
- For the best texture, slice the cucumbers uniformly. A mandoline makes this quick and easy.
- Taste a cucumber slice after the initial Tajin toss to check the spice and salt level before adding the mayo.
Storage & Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that it will continue to release moisture, so you may want to drain off any excess liquid and give it a stir before serving again. This salad is served cold and should not be reheated.
FAQ
What is Tajin seasoning?
Tajin is a popular Mexican seasoning made from ground dried chile peppers, dehydrated lime, and sea salt. It has a tangy, spicy, and slightly salty flavor.
Can I use English cucumbers?
My salad is too watery. What happened?
This likely means you didn’t drain enough liquid from the cucumbers after letting them sit with the Tajin. Be sure to drain well before adding the mayonnaise.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
The recipe is designed for mayonnaise. For a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan mayo, but the flavor and texture will be tailored to that specific ingredient.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the Tajin-coated cucumbers ahead (draining included) and store them separately in the fridge for several hours. Add the mayonnaise and tomatoes just before serving for the best texture.
Why is there a cook time if no cooking is involved?
The “cook time” listed here refers to the essential marinating/resting time needed for the Tajin to flavor the cucumbers and draw out moisture.
