Lupin Free Smoky Paprika Watercress and Cucumber Salad
This vibrant salad is a serious crowd-pleaser — peppery watercress, cool cucumber rounds, and paper-thin radishes all come together in a bowl that looks as stunning as it tastes. The real star is the smoky, warmly spiced dressing, where smoked paprika and cumin meet bright lemon juice and a touch of honey for a balance that's bold without being overpowering. Toasted pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch and a nutty depth that makes the whole thing feel like a complete dish rather than a simple side. Every ingredient here is naturally free from lupin — no flour blends, no legume-based fillers, no label-reading anxiety — just clean, whole foods you can trust. The dressing comes together in a single bowl with a quick whisk, and the seeds toast up in just a few minutes in a dry skillet, so the whole recipe moves fast. Serve it immediately after tossing so the watercress stays crisp and the seeds keep their crunch. It's the kind of salad that makes people ask for the recipe before they've even finished their plate.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the salad
- ¼ cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 5 oz watercress, thick stems removed
- 1 english cucumber, thinly sliced into rounds
- 3 radishes, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp raw honey
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pumpkin seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until they begin to pop and turn golden, about 2–3 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer to a small plate and set aside.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, honey, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) until the dressing is smooth and uniform in color.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!