SPICY CUCUMBER SLICES WITH TAJÍN
Spicy Cucumber Slices with Tajín is a simple, refreshing and flavour-packed snack that perfectly balances tangy, spicy and salty flavours. With just three ingredients: cucumber, lime juice and Tajín seasoning, this quick snack delivers a crisp, hydrating crunch with a zesty kick. This low-calorie, high-fibre snack is perfect for hot summer days, post-workout hydration or as a light appetizer before meals. Tajín, a Mexican chilli-lime seasoning, enhances the natural freshness of cucumbers while adding a spicy, citrusy twist. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack, a simple party dish or a fun way to add more vegetables to your diet, these spicy cucumber slices are an easy and satisfying choice. Enjoy them on their own or pair them with dips for an extra layer of flavour.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Snack, Appetizer, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mexican, Latin American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, Quick & Easy
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Cinco de Mayo, Picnic, BBQ, Casual Snacking, Light Appetizer
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Low-Calorie, Low-Carb, Nut-Free, Paleo, Whole30
DISH TYPE
Snack, Salad, Spicy Vegetable
INGREDIENTS
- ½ cucumber, sliced
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon Tajín seasoning
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 18 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Fats: 0g
- Fibre: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 95mg
PREPARATION
- Slice the cucumber: Wash and thinly slice the cucumber into rounds. For extra crunch, leave the skin on.
- Season the cucumber: Place the slices in a bowl and drizzle with fresh lime juice.
- Sprinkle Tajín: Evenly sprinkle Tajín seasoning over the cucumber slices.
- Toss and serve: Gently toss the slices to coat them evenly with lime juice and Tajín.
- Enjoy immediately: Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste and maximum crunch.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
None
TIPS
- Use cold cucumbers: Chilled cucumbers enhance the refreshing, hydrating quality of this dish.
- Even seasoning: If you prefer spicier cucumbers, let them rest for a few minutes to absorb the Tajín and lime juice.
- Peel or leave the skin: If using Persian or English cucumbers, the skin is tender and can be left on. Peeling may improve the texture of regular cucumbers.
- Experiment with Tajín levels: Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust based on your spice tolerance.
- Pair with dips: Serve with guacamole, hummus or yoghurt-based dips for an extra flavour boost.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Mango and Cucumber Slices: Add mango slices for a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Creamy Avocado-Tajín Cucumbers: Toss with mashed avocado for a creamy, spicy salad.
- Cucumber Nachos: Top slices with cotija cheese, diced jalapeños and a drizzle of hot sauce for a bolder bite.
- Sweet and Spicy Cucumbers: Add a drizzle of honey or agave to balance the heat with sweetness.
- Tajín Pineapple Cucumber Snack: Mix in fresh pineapple chunks for a tropical, tangy twist.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Best when fresh: Spicy cucumber slices are best eaten immediately for maximum crunch.
- Short-term storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Avoid excess moisture: If storing, drain any excess liquid before refrigerating to prevent sogginess.
- Meal prep tip: Cut the cucumbers into slices and store them separately. Add lime juice and Tajín just before serving for freshness.