Jalapeno Popper Cucumber Salad

Jalapeño Popper Cucumber Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic jalapeño popper. This salad features crispy cucumbers, creamy cream cheese, and a hint of spice from fresh jalapeños. It’s a perfect low-carb, keto-friendly dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make. The combination of tangy cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of garlic powder gives this dish a creamy richness, while the smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness. This vibrant and tasty salad is ideal for a snack, side dish, or as part of a larger meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 Persian cucumbers (or English cucumbers)

• ½ red onion, diced

• 1 jalapeño, finely diced (adjust to taste)

• 3–4 tablespoons cream cheese (preferably with herbs)

• 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt or sour cream

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ⅓ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon coarse sea salt

• 3–4 tablespoons sharp cheddar cheese, grated

• ¼ teaspoon soy sauce (optional)

• Sesame seeds (black & white) for garnish

Directions:

1. Slice the Cucumbers:
   Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the cucumbers into ½ cm (¼”) thick rounds.

2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl or jar, add the sliced cucumbers, diced red onion, and diced jalapeño.

3. Prepare the Dressing:
   Add the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and grated cheddar cheese to the bowl.

4. Add Soy Sauce:
   If using, add the soy sauce to the mixture.

5. Mix:
   Toss the ingredients together until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Alternatively, cover the jar and shake it to mix the ingredients.

6. Garnish:
   Transfer the salad to a serving plate and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

7. Chill and Serve:
   Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 120 kcal

• Protein: 5 g

• Fat: 9 g

• Carbohydrates: 8 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 3 g

• Sodium: 250 mg

• Cholesterol: 20 mg

• Potassium: 220 mg

• Calcium: 100 mg

• Iron: 1 mg