Escape the ordinary with this vibrant Poppy Seed Summer Salad. Crisp cucumbers and sweet cantaloupe mingle in a refreshing dance, elevated by a tangy poppy seed dressing. A delightful departure from the usual, perfect for sun-soaked gatherings or a light, invigorating lunch.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
Carbohydrate
9 g
Cholesterol
4 mg
Fiber
1 g
Protein
1 g
Saturated Fat
1 g
Sodium
84 mg
Sugar
6 g
Fat
5 g
Unsaturated Fat
0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
5 mins
Prepare the Cantaloupe and Cucumbers: Place the cubed cantaloupe and cucumbers in a colander. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
02
Step
2 hrs 30 mins
Extract Excess Moisture: Set a plate on top of the colander's contents and weigh it down with a heavy object (like a large can of food). This helps remove excess liquid, concentrating the flavors. Toss gently every 30 minutes for even drainage. (Draining time: 2-3 hours)
03
Step
5 mins
Combine and Dress: Transfer the drained cantaloupe and cucumbers to a large bowl. Add the diced red onion and celery. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
04
Step
2 mins
Dress the Salad: Pour in the poppy seed dressing and red wine vinegar. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. (Prep time: 2 minutes)
05
Step
1 mins
Final Touches: Stir in the poppy seeds. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more poppy seed dressing or poppy seeds to your preference. (Prep time: 1 minute)
06
Step
30 mins
Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. (Chill time: 30 minutes or longer)
For an extra layer of flavor, try grilling the cantaloupe cubes for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
If you don't have time to drain the cantaloupe and cucumbers for 2-3 hours, you can skip this step, but the salad may be a bit wetter.
Consider adding toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
A splash of lime juice can brighten the flavors even more.
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Caterina Stoltenberg
Jun 27, 2025This salad was a huge hit at my summer barbecue! Everyone raved about how refreshing and unique it was.
Saige Beer
Jun 20, 2025The draining step is crucial! Don't skip it or your salad will be watery.
Daron Zboncak
Jun 18, 2025I made this salad the day before and it was even better the next day. The flavors really had a chance to meld together.
Cynthia Mayer
Jun 18, 2025I added some feta cheese to mine and it was delicious!