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As summer approaches, the allure of vibrant, fresh salads becomes undeniable, providing a perfect way to enjoy the season's bounty. One salad that stands out is the Grilled Hatch Chili Cucumber Salad, a dish that masterfully combines the crispness of cucumbers with the smoky heat of Hatch chiles. This salad is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that makes it an ideal choice for summer gatherings and healthy meal prep alike.

Grilled Hatch Chili Cucumber Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of summer with this Grilled Hatch Chili Cucumber Salad, combining crisp cucumbers and smoky Hatch chiles for a refreshing dish. Perfect for barbecues or meal prep, this salad features fresh ingredients like red onions, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese, all enhanced by a zesty dressing. Enjoy a nutritious and delicious option that brings a sensational balance of heat and freshness to your table. Try it for your next gathering or as a healthy weeknight meal.

Ingredients
  

2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced into thin rounds

3 Hatch chiles, roasted, peeled, and diced

1 small red onion, thinly sliced into rings

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

1 teaspoon honey

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Hatch Chiles: Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the Hatch chiles directly on the grill grates and grill for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them occasionally until their skin is charred and blistered. Once grilled, remove chiles from the grill, allow them to cool slightly, then peel off the skin and chop them into small pieces.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.

      Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, carefully combine the sliced cucumbers, grilled and chopped Hatch chiles, thinly sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Using a gentle tossing motion, combine the ingredients until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

          Finish with Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. Give the salad one last delicate mix to ensure the feta is incorporated without breaking it down too much.

            Chill and Serve: For enhanced flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to marinate and the flavors to meld beautifully together.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings

                Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a decorative bowl or on a large platter. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and a few slices of lime for a vibrant and attractive presentation. Enjoy!