Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish or light meal? Look no further! This cucumber and apple salad recipe is the perfect solution. It's unbelievably easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. This refreshing salad is bursting with fresh flavors, making it a perfect addition to any summer barbecue, a light lunch, or a healthy side for dinner. Get ready to experience a delightful combination of crunchy cucumbers, sweet apples, and a tangy vinaigrette that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended), cored and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional, but adds a nice bite)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Begin by preparing your cucumber and apple. Wash them thoroughly, peel the cucumber (leaving the peel on is fine too, depending on preference!), and remove the seeds. Thinly slice both the cucumber and apple using a mandoline or sharp knife for even slices. If using red onion, thinly slice that as well. Chop the parsley.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You can make the dressing slightly more tart or sweet depending on your preferences.
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Combine and Toss: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumber, apple, and red onion (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to over-toss, as you don't want to bruise the delicate apple slices.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes best when it's fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips for the Best Cucumber and Apple Salad:
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Choose the Right Apples: Crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji hold their shape well in the salad and offer a nice sweetness. Avoid overly soft or mealy apples.
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Don't Overdress: Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
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Add Some Crunch: Toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans would add a delightful crunch to this salad. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are also great options.
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Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick for those who like a little heat.
Variations:
- Add some protein: Grilled chicken or chickpeas make this a heartier meal.
- Cheese Please: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, salty element.
- Herbs for Days: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or mint.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
This simple cucumber and apple salad is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food recipes can be. Enjoy this easy and refreshing dish any time of year! It’s a fantastic healthy meal option, a quick dinner idea, and a great addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. This recipe is sure to become a favorite among your best recipes.