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Crushed Cucumbers with Lime Pickle and Coconut

This vibrant crushed cucumber salad with lime pickle and coconut is a masterclass in balancing bold flavours. By bruising the cucumber, you allow its crisp texture to absorb the sharp, salty heat of the lime pickle, creating a punchy base that is both refreshing and complex. It is a stunning vegan dish that works beautifully as a light starter or a cooling side to spicy main courses.

The addition of creamy coconut milk and fragrant fresh herbs brings a cooling element to the heat of the chilli oil. Whether you are looking for a quick midweek lunch or an impressive addition to a summer spread, this salad offers a sophisticated contrast of temperatures and textures that is naturally healthy and incredibly simple to assemble.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Crushed Cucumbers with Lime Pickle and Coconut

  • 1 large English hothouse cucumber, sliced into 1/2"-thick rounds

  • 60ml prepared lime pickle, very finely chopped until almost a paste

  • Kosher salt

  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves

  • 2 tablespoons small dill sprigs

  • 1 tablespoon chilli oil

  • 2 tablespoons Asian fried garlic (optional)

  • MSG (optional

  • for serving)

  • 120ml unsweetened coconut milk

How to make Crushed Cucumbers with Lime Pickle and Coconut

Crush cucumber in a medium bowl with your hands until almost falling apart. Add lime pickle and toss to combine; season with salt.

Divide among bowls; top with mint, dill, chilli oil, and fried garlic and MSG, if using. Spoon coconut milk around.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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