This Fresh Cucumber Apple Salad is a cool treat for hot summer days! Crisp cucumbers and sweet apples come together for a refreshing crunch that’s hard to beat.
It’s quick to whip up, and it makes the perfect side dish for picnics or barbecues. I love to add a sprinkle of lemon juice for a zesty kick—so tasty! 🍏🥒
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using English cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and thin skin, making them extra crunchy. If they’re not available, regular cucumbers work well too!
Apples: Granny Smith apples give a nice tang that balances the sweetness. Fuji apples are sweeter, so use what you like best! For a different flavor, you could try Honeycrisp or Gala apples.
Red Onion: This ingredient adds a sharp bite, but if you’re sensitive to strong flavors, you can leave it out or substitute with green onions for a milder taste.
Honey / Maple Syrup: Honey adds sweetness, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup is a great choice! You can also adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your salad.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint truly elevates this salad. If you don’t have mint, basil could give an interesting twist, or you might skip herbs altogether if you prefer.
How Can I Ensure My Salad is Extra Refreshing?
To make your salad seriously refreshing, chilling it is key! After mixing, let it sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This step not only lets the flavors meld, but it also keeps the salad cool and crisp.
- Wash and prep all your ingredients ahead of time for ease.
- Consider serving it in a chilled bowl to keep everything cool longer.
Fresh Cucumber Apple Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 15 minutes to chill. So, in total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick summer side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fruits and Vegetables:
Start by washing the cucumbers and apples thoroughly. Next, thinly slice them; you can peel the cucumbers if you prefer a skinless texture. If you’re using red onion, slice it thinly as well.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, apple slices, and red onion (if you decided to add it). Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice and honey (or maple syrup) until they’re well combined. This will be the sweet and tangy dressing for your salad.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber and apple mixture. Gently toss everything together, ensuring all the pieces are coated with the dressing.
5. Add Fresh Mint:
Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it another light toss to mix in the mint.
6. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together and to keep it cool. When you’re ready to serve, just pull it out and enjoy this delightful summer treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji are great options, you can use any apple you prefer. Honeycrisp, Gala, or even a sweeter variety will work well, just adjust the sweetness of the dressing accordingly if needed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days. The cucumbers may release some water over time, so give it a quick stir before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare all the ingredients a few hours in advance, but it’s best to toss the salad with the dressing and mint right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Mint?
If you don’t have fresh mint on hand, you can skip it or try using fresh basil for a unique flavor twist. Just chop it finely and add it to the salad for a fresh herb taste!
