These Easy Chili-Lime Pineapple Cucumber Sticks are a refreshing and zesty treat! The sweet pineapple pairs perfectly with cool cucumbers, giving you a tasty crunch.
Plus, the chili-lime sprinkle adds just the right kick to wake up your taste buds. I love serving these at parties; they’re quick to prepare and always a hit! 🍍🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumber: A medium cucumber is crisp and cool, making it perfect for this dish. If you’re out of cucumbers, you can use bell peppers or jicama for a crunchy texture.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best for flavor, but canned pineapple is a good substitute. Just make sure to choose the unsweetened variety to control the sugar level.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds zing! If fresh limes aren’t available, bottled lime juice will work but might taste a bit different. Try lemon juice as an alternative too!
Chili Powder: I love using chili powder for its mild heat. If you prefer spice, you can swap it for cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish! If you’re not a fan, chopped green onions or parsley are great replacements.
How Do I Get the Skewers Ready Without Burning?
Soaking wooden skewers is essential to avoid burning during grilling or serving. Just take a bowl of water and submerge the skewers for at least 10 minutes. This simple step helps keep them from catching fire while cooking, ensuring your beautiful food stays intact.
- Choose a bowl large enough to hold all the skewers.
- Cover the skewers completely with water to soak them evenly.
- Set a timer for 10 minutes while you prep your ingredients.
Getting this little detail right helps make your presentation great and your cooking stress-free!
Easy Chili-Lime Pineapple Cucumber Sticks
Ingredients
- 1 medium cucumber
- 1/2 fresh pineapple
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning)
Time Needed
This delicious snack takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 10 minutes to soak the wooden skewers. With a quick assembly of the ingredients, you’ll be ready to serve these vibrant, tangy sticks in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cucumber
Start by washing your cucumber thoroughly. If you prefer, you can peel it for a smoother texture. Next, slice the cucumber into thick sticks, each about 3-4 inches long. Set these aside as you prepare the pineapple.
2. Cut the Pineapple
Peel and core the fresh pineapple, removing any tough outer skin. Cut the pineapple into chunks that are roughly equal in size to the cucumber sticks. This helps create a beautiful and balanced presentation when assembled.
3. Assemble the Skewers
Take your soaked wooden skewers and start threading them by alternating the pieces of cucumber and pineapple. You can be creative with the arrangement, but make sure they are evenly spaced for easy eating!
4. Make the Chili-Lime Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, chili powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt. This mixture will give your sticks a zesty flavor that ties everything together.
5. Drizzle and Garnish
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle the chili-lime dressing evenly over each stick. Make sure to coat them well for the best flavor! Then, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
These Chili-Lime Pineapple Cucumber Sticks are best served immediately for a crisp and refreshing snack. If you’d like, you can chill them for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld even more. Enjoy this healthy and tasty appetizer!
Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking—more chili powder for heat or less for a milder taste. These sticks are sure to impress your friends and family!
FAQ about Easy Chili-Lime Pineapple Cucumber Sticks
Can I Use Different Fruits Instead of Pineapple?
Absolutely! While pineapple adds a unique sweetness, you can also use mango, watermelon, or even strawberries. Just keep the size of the fruit pieces consistent with the cucumber sticks for easy eating.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their freshness, drizzle a bit of lime juice over them before sealing the container. Enjoy chilled!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cucumber and pineapple sticks ahead of time! Just assemble the skewers and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Drizzle with the chili-lime dressing right before serving to keep them fresh and flavorful.
What Can I Serve with Chili-Lime Pineapple Cucumber Sticks?
These sticks make a great appetizer on their own, but they pair wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood. You can also serve them alongside a spicy dipping sauce like chili sauce or yogurt dip for added flavor!
