Introduction:
Refresh and rejuvenate with a Crunchy Cucumber & Apple Salad, perfect for warm weather meals or as a light, crisp side. This salad combines the refreshing textures of cucumber and apples with aromatic herbs and a zesty dressing, delivering a delightful taste and crunch. It’s an ideal choice for a healthy lunch, picnic, or as an accompaniment to grilled dishes.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or almonds for added crunch
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds or hemp seeds for a nutty flavor
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash all the vegetables and fruits. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers and apples into thin rounds. Thinly slice the red onion as well.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, apples, red onion, chopped dill, and mint leaves. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes to marinate.
- Add Optional Ingredients:
- If using, add toasted nuts or seeds and crumbled cheese just before serving for additional texture and flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.
Tips for Success:
- Use a mandoline for uniformly thin slices, which help in better absorption of the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes after adding the dressing to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the dressing based on the sweetness of the apples and your personal preference.
Recommendation:
This Crunchy Cucumber & Apple Salad is versatile and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or standalone as a light meal. It’s also perfect for spring and summer gatherings, bringing a refreshing element to your meal. For those looking to add a bit of protein, consider including grilled tofu or chicken strips to transform it into a wholesome, low-carb meal option.
Enjoy the vibrant and refreshing flavors of this Crunchy Cucumber & Apple Salad, a perfect dish to savor on a sunny day!
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