A Light, Refreshing Salad with Crisp Cucumber, Sweet Apple, and a Tangy Vinaigrette
Short Description
Crunchy Cucumber Apple Salad is a bright and invigorating blend of crisp cucumbers, juicy apples, and a tangy vinaigrette. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and optional toppings like feta or walnuts, this salad is perfect for light meals or as a refreshing side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing and light – ideal for warm days and quick meals.
- Simple ingredients – easy to find, fresh, and healthy.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan – customizable to suit various diets.
- Quick to prepare – ready in just 10 minutes.
- Great texture – a satisfying mix of crisp vegetables and sweet apples.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups thinly sliced seedless cucumber
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or walnuts for topping
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, apple slices, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with fresh dill or mint and add crumbled feta or walnuts if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving cold.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add protein: Top with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a complete meal.
- Switch herbs: Try basil or parsley in place of dill or mint.
- Use other fruits: Pears or thinly sliced grapes also work beautifully.
- Creamy version: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy twist.
- Nuts and seeds: Add sunflower seeds, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Best served fresh for optimal texture.
- Reheating: This salad is meant to be served cold and should not be reheated.
FAQs
What type of apples are best for this salad?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work well due to their crisp texture and balanced sweetness.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed shortly after preparation. If making ahead, add the vinaigrette just before serving to preserve texture.
How do I keep apples from browning?
Toss them in a bit of lemon juice before adding to the salad to maintain their color.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey and skip the feta cheese.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Thinly sliced radishes, celery, or arugula make great additions.
Can I substitute the vinegar?
Yes, white wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used in place of apple cider vinegar.
What pairs well with this salad?
It’s excellent alongside grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches and fits beautifully into a summer picnic menu.
How long does the vinaigrette keep?
The vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge for up to one week in a sealed container.
Is it okay to leave out the onion?
Yes, you can omit or substitute with milder green onions or shallots if preferred.
Can I use bottled dressing?
While possible, homemade vinaigrette gives the salad a fresher and more balanced flavor.
Conclusion
Crunchy Cucumber Apple Salad is a crisp, flavorful dish that combines simple ingredients into a truly refreshing bite. Whether served as a light lunch, a cooling side, or a picnic favorite, it delivers on taste, texture, and ease. Make it once and it may become a staple in your summer salad rotation.
Print
Crunchy Cucumber Apple Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A crisp and refreshing salad made with cucumber, apple, and red onion tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, perfect for summer meals.
Ingredients
- 2 cups thinly sliced seedless cucumber
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or walnuts for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, apple slices, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle with fresh dill or mint and optional toppings if desired.
- Chill for 10 minutes and serve cold.
Notes
- Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for contrast or sweet ones like Honeycrisp for balance.
- Add walnuts or feta for extra crunch and richness.
- Best served fresh and chilled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
