Pistachio Free Smoky Paprika Watercress and Cucumber Salad
This vibrant salad is all about bold, smoky flavor packed into something refreshingly light and crisp. Peppery watercress, cool cucumber rounds, and paper-thin radishes come together in a way that feels both elegant and effortless. The real star is the dressing — smoked paprika and cumin give it a warm, earthy depth, while fresh lemon juice and a touch of honey keep everything bright and balanced. Toasted pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch on top, making this feel like a complete dish rather than a simple side. Every ingredient here is naturally free from tree nut concerns, so there's no label-scanning or substitution stress involved — just straightforward, wholesome cooking. It comes together in minutes and is best served immediately so the greens stay lively and the seeds keep their crunch. Whether you're building a weeknight dinner spread or need something impressive for guests, this salad delivers serious flavor with very little effort.
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!