Cucumber Strawberry Mint Salad (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Produce

01 - 1 cucumber, washed and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
02 - 2 cups strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced (about 1/4-inch thick)
03 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chiffonade

→ Dressing

04 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
05 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
06 - 1 teaspoon honey
07 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Wash the cucumber thoroughly under cold running water. Slice into thin rounds, approximately 3 mm thick, and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
02 - Rinse the strawberries under cold water and dry gently. Remove the green tops and slice into thin slices, about 6 mm thick. Add to the bowl with cucumber.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey until honey is fully dissolved and mixture is homogeneous.
04 - Add salt and black pepper to the dressing and whisk again to blend evenly.
05 - Pour the dressing over the cucumber and strawberry slices. Gently toss to ensure all produce is coated evenly.
06 - Wash and dry the fresh mint leaves. Stack and slice them into thin ribbons (chiffonade), then stir into the salad.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt, pepper, or honey. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
08 - Serve immediately or refrigerate briefly until ready. For best texture and flavor, consume within a few hours.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Allowing the salad to rest briefly enhances the infusion of mint and balances the acidity.