Starfruit, Cucumber & Mint Salad
A refreshing, hydrating salad featuring the unique sweetness of starfruit, crisp cucumber, and aromatic mint, all brightened by a simple lime vinaigrette. Perfect for a light meal or a vibrant side dish.
For 2 servings
Prepare the starfruit: Wash the starfruit thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, carefully trim off the dark brown edges along the five ridges of the fruit. Slice the starfruit crosswise into 1/4-inch thick star-shaped pieces.
Prepare the cucumber: Wash the English cucumber. You can peel it partially in stripes or leave the skin on for extra color and nutrients. Slice it into thin half-moons or rounds, approximately 1/8-inch thick.
Prepare the mint: Gently rinse the fresh mint leaves under cool water and pat them thoroughly dry with a paper towel. You can either gently tear them by hand for a rustic look or stack them and thinly slice them into a chiffonade.
Assemble the salad base: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, gently combine the sliced starfruit, cucumber, and prepared mint leaves. Be careful not to bruise the delicate starfruit.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, agave nectar (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well emulsified and thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Dress and serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Gently toss the salad to ensure all components are lightly and evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for the best texture and vibrant flavor.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose Ripe Starfruit: Look for starfruit that is firm, bright yellow, and has slightly browned edges on the ridges. Avoid green or overly soft fruit, as it may be underripe or overripe.
- 2Chill Ingredients: For an extra refreshing experience, chill the starfruit and cucumber in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before assembling the salad.
- 3Dress Just Before Serving: To prevent the salad from becoming watery or soggy, always add the dressing right before you plan to serve it. This preserves the crispness of the cucumber and starfruit.
- 4Mint Preparation: If you want a more subtle mint flavor, leave the leaves whole. For a stronger burst of mint, gently tear or chiffonade them to release more of their aromatic oils.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled shrimp, crumbled feta cheese, or a handful of toasted cashews or pistachios for added protein and a delightful textural contrast.
Tropical TwistTropical Twist
Incorporate other tropical fruits like diced mango, pineapple, or even a few segments of grapefruit for an even sweeter and more exotic flavor profile.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes or a very thin slice of jalapeño (seeds removed) can add a pleasant, subtle heat to contrast the sweetness and tang of the salad.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Starfruit and lime are excellent sources of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function, promotes skin health, and aids in collagen production.
Hydrating and Detoxifying
Cucumber is composed of over 95% water, making this salad incredibly hydrating and beneficial for maintaining fluid balance, skin health, and aiding in natural detoxification processes.
Digestive Aid
Mint is traditionally known for its digestive properties, helping to soothe the stomach and alleviate indigestion. The fiber from the fruits and vegetables also contributes to healthy gut function.
Frequently asked questions
It's best to assemble and dress this salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the cucumber and starfruit. You can prep the ingredients and store the dressing separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
