Certainly! Here’s a full breakdown of the refreshing and vibrant Cucumber and Apple Salad recipe:
🥒🍏 Cucumber and Apple Salad
A crisp, refreshing salad that balances sweet and savory flavors—perfect for picnics, light lunches, or as a vibrant side dish.
Introduction
Light, crunchy, and bursting with freshness, this Cucumber and Apple Salad is a delightful combination of cool cucumber and sweet-tart apples, brought together with a zesty, slightly creamy dressing. It’s quick to prepare, versatile in flavor, and a beautiful dish to brighten up your table any time of year.
Origin of the Recipe
While not rooted in one specific culinary tradition, this salad borrows from both Eastern European cucumber salads and Western-style fruit-forward slaws. It’s especially popular in warm-weather months for its hydrating ingredients and refreshing qualities, often enjoyed in modern farm-to-table and health-conscious cuisines.
Ingredients
🌿 Salad Base:
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 large crisp apple (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced or julienned
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or parsley if preferred)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional, for bite)
- 2 tbsp toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts (for crunch)
🥣 Dressing:
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tsp poppy seeds or chia seeds
- ½ tsp grated fresh ginger for a zing
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- A few arugula leaves or baby spinach for a peppery touch
- Thin slices of celery for extra crunch
Instructions
- Prep the Produce:
Wash and thinly slice the cucumber and apple (keep the peel on for color and nutrition). If using red onion, slice thinly and soak in water for 5 minutes to mellow the flavor. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add optional poppy seeds or ginger if desired. - Combine the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, toss cucumber, apple slices, and red onion (if using). Add dressing and toss gently to coat. - Add Final Touches:
Stir in fresh dill and sprinkle with nuts or seeds for crunch. Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving if time allows.
✅ Tips for Success
- Use crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith to avoid sogginess.
- Slice everything thinly and evenly for the best texture balance.
- Dressing can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Add acid (vinegar/lemon juice) just before serving to prevent apples from browning.
- If making in advance, keep apples in lemon water and assemble last minute.
🍽 Recommendations
🌟 Pair With:
- Grilled chicken or fish for a light dinner
- Quiche or savory tarts for brunch
- Sandwiches or wraps for a refreshing lunch combo
🍹 Drink Pairing:
- Sparkling water with mint or cucumber slices
- A chilled glass of Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc
- Freshly brewed iced green tea
🔍 Nutrition Estimate
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
| Calories | 110–130 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
Values vary depending on optional ingredients and type of yogurt used.