In Mexico this is a favorite snack for many, specially during the hot summer months. Cooling, refreshing, and with a delicious kick.
Today as I watched the children I could feel that summer enthusiasm I once had as a child. You know, that feeling you get when school is out and the summer is yours to do whatever you please.
I began thinking about my sisters and brothers. How we spent our summer days in Mexico. I thought of how we played outside, cooled off at the pool, and recalleed our favorite summer foods. I started to remember how we loved to eat cucumbers drizzled with fresh lime juice, sprinkled with loads of chile powder and a pinch or two of salt. After all the cucumbers were gone then we’d lift up the bowl to our mouths and drink the remaining juices. 
In Mexico this is a favorite snack for many, specially during the hot summer months. Cucumbers leave you cooled and feeling refreshed. There really isn’t much of a recipe, because ingredient amounts are a matter of personal preference – and basically you can adapt as you wish. But below is a what you’ll need.
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Pepinos Con Chile y Limon: Mexican Cucumbers with Chile and Lime
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Description
A simple Mexican snack,
crunchy, tangy, and spicy.
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber (1 cucumber) cucumber
- 1 lime (1 lime) lime, juiced
- Chile powder or Tajin or any Mexican fruit seasoning powder to taste
- Sea salt to taste
- 1 jalapeño or red chili (1 jalapeño or red chili) jalapeño or red chili, finely sliced or chopped
Instructions
- Chill cucumber for 30 minutes before starting.
- Peel and slice cucumber into thick slices.
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and enjoy as a snack.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the jalapeño.
- To make ahead, prepare the cucumbers and store them separately from the seasoning until ready to serve to prevent them from getting soggy.
- If you don’t have lime juice, you can substitute with a small amount of white vinegar or lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 100
- Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 1
Frequently Asked Questions
How much lime juice should I use for the cucumbers?
The amount of lime juice can vary based on personal preference; start with the juice of one lime and adjust to taste.
What type of chile powder is best for this recipe?
You can use any type of chile powder you like, but common choices include Tajín, chili powder, or cayenne for a spicier kick.
Is there a specific type of cucumber I should use?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work well due to their crisp texture and mild flavor, but you can use any variety you prefer.
Summer is here, and I LOVE this recipe!!!!!
This is such a great summer snack. I make it in the morning, leave it in the fridge throughout the day, and at around lunchtime it is usually finished. Love it.
Why did I never think of this before. So great with the juicy cucumber and the slight heat from the chili. I did both Tajin and chili powder and it was perfect.
This is my favorite hometown snack, by far. So refreshing, and so delicious!