This Crunchy Cucumber and Apple Salad combines the crisp textures of fresh cucumbers and apples with the rich flavors of nuts, cheese, and a light, sweet dressing. It’s a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for a summer picnic or as a healthy addition to any meal. Here’s how to make this delightful salad:
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 apples, thinly sliced (choose a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best results)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits:
- Wash the cucumbers and apples thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, thinly slice the cucumbers and apples. To prevent the apples from browning, you can toss them in a little lemon juice as soon as you slice them.
- Mix the Salad Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and honey until well combined. This mixture will be the dressing for the salad, providing a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Combine Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, apples, and red onion. Add the chopped parsley and the nuts (walnuts or almonds), which add a nice crunch and nutritional boost to the salad.
- Add Dressing and Season:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with salt if you’re adding feta cheese, as it is already quite salty.
- Add Feta Cheese (Optional):
- If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the salad and gently mix it in. The feta adds a creamy texture and a salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples and the dressing.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together more thoroughly.
Tips:
- Apple Selection: Choosing the right type of apple is key. A crisp variety will hold up better in the salad and provide a nice contrast to the soft cucumbers.
- Nut Variations: You can use other types of nuts such as pecans or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a different texture.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a refreshing side to rich dishes.
Conclusion:
Crunchy Cucumber & Apple Salad is a light, refreshing dish that’s not only pleasing to the palate but also beautiful to look at. It’s packed with textures and flavors that make it a delightful addition to any table. Enjoy the freshness of this easy-to-make salad at your next meal!