Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly refreshing side dish or light lunch? Look no further! This Apple Cucumber Salad is the perfect solution. It's bursting with fresh flavors, a delightful crunch, and a healthy dose of vitamins. This simple recipe is perfect for beginners and a welcome addition to any experienced cook’s repertoire. Prepare to elevate your mealtime with this delicious and satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables and Fruit: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers, apples, and red onion. Try to get even slices for consistent cooking and presentation. To prevent browning, you can toss the sliced apples with a little lemon juice.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumbers, apples, red onion, cilantro, and mint.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber and apple mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional, but highly recommended.
Tips for the Best Apple Cucumber Salad:
- Choose the Right Apples: Crisp, sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji work best in this salad. Avoid overly soft or mealy apples.
- Don't Overdress: Start with less dressing and add more if needed. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled feta cheese.
- Get Creative with Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Variations:
- Spicy Apple Cucumber Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Creamy Apple Cucumber Salad: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing for a creamier texture.
- Autumn Apple Cucumber Salad: Add toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a warm, autumnal flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 Fat: 10-15g Protein: 2-3g Carbohydrates: 15-20g Fiber: 3-4g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick healthy meal, a side dish to complement grilled meats, or a refreshing light lunch. The combination of sweet apples, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy dressing makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!