Crunchy Cucumber & Apple Salad

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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:

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. Add Optional Ingredients:
  • If using, add toasted nuts or seeds and crumbled cheese just before serving for additional texture and flavor.
  1. 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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