A touch of honey, lemon juice and fresh cilantro bring together the unique flavors of this fragrant fennel cucumber avocado salsa.

fennel cucumber and avocado salsa recipe

I love experimenting with unexpected combinations of fresh ingredients in salsa, especially when farmers market season is in full swing to inspire me. This special salsa recipe blends the crispness of cucumbers, the distinct aroma of fennel, the creaminess of avocado and the tanginess of pickled banana peppers.

Whipping it together is easy beyond the chopping and dicing, which accounts for almost all of your prep time. My mom is actually the one who served it to me the first time, and swore it would be hard to stop eating it. She was right! It’s surprisingly addicting!

What to serve with fennel cucumber avocado salsa

This salsa can be served in many different ways, too. Of course, we think chips first! It goes great with classic tortilla chips, pita chips, or even sweet potato chips. Of course, an alternative for healthier carbohydrates is opting for fresh veggies as your dippers, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.

Serve this salsa with chips or other dippers as an appetizer for a meal like fish tacos, my easy chicken fajitas or slow cooker chicken tortilla soup.

Fennel cucumber avocado salsa is not just limited to being a dip; it also works wonders as a topping or sauce for various dishes.

Add a spoonful to your favorite grilled fish or chicken to elevate their flavors, or use it as a topping for salads, grain bowls or even slaw mixes for an extra punch of taste and freshness.

Ingredients needed to make this cucumber salsa

Below are the basic items to gather for this delicious salsa, plus a bit about what each contributes to the recipe.

English Cucumber: One diced, large cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and mild taste
Fennel: Provides a unique, aromatic flavor and subtle sweetness
Avocado: Adds creaminess and a rich, buttery texture
Red Onion: Adds a sharp, pungent flavor and a pleasant crunch
Pickled Banana Peppers: Contributes tanginess and a subtle heat
Cilantro: Introduces a bright, fresh, and citrusy flavor
Honey: Balances out the flavors with a bit of sweetness
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavors and helps keep the avocado from browning
Salt & Pepper: Enhances the overall taste and brings out the flavors of the ingredients

ingredients for fennel, avocado and cucumber salad.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Medium Bowl
Cutting Board
Knife

fennel cucumber and avocado salsa recipe process

Frequently asked questions about this avocado cucumber salsa

Here are a few short questions and answers that might be helpful when preparing this recipe. If you have a question I have not covered, leave it in the comments section. I will reply as soon as I can!

Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salsa ahead of time. However, it is best to add the avocado, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper just before serving to maintain freshness.

How long does this salsa last in the fridge?

It’s best to consume the salsa within two days of preparation for optimal taste and freshness.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers in this salsa recipe, but keep in mind that regular cucumbers have more seeds and a thicker skin, which might affect the texture and taste.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the salsa?

Yes! You can add more or less honey to suit your taste preferences.

What can I use as a substitute for fennel?

While fennel has a unique flavor, you can try using thinly sliced celery or a small amount of anise seeds for a similar taste. Feel free to add other fresh herbs to your liking.

Can I add other fresh ingredients for variations on this salsa recipe?

Yes, you can add other favorite veggies to the cucumber mixture like corn for more sweetness, a diced jalapeño for a kick or minced clove garlic for depth of flavor.

More Grandma-Approved Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this recipe for fennel cucumber avocado salsa, then take a look at some of these other yummy recipes: