If you’re on the hunt for a salad that bursts with freshness, texture, and a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, then the Crunchy Cucumber and Apple Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This summery salad shines with crisp cucumber ribbons and juicy apple slices, whipped together in a zesty apple cider vinegar dressing that wakes up your taste buds with every bite. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect go-to for a light lunch, picnic side, or a refreshing addition to any meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad lies in its simplicity and thoughtful ingredient choices. Each of these components plays an essential role: cucumbers bring that cool crunch, apples add sweetness and a tender snap, and the apple cider vinegar ties it all together with a tangy punch. The fresh dill is the secret herb that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- 2 cups cucumber (thinly sliced): Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best crunch and hydration.
- 2 medium apples (julienned or thinly sliced): Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for balance and texture.
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a mild sharpness without overpowering the salad.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped): This aromatic herb brings a bright, slightly tangy note.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: The star of the dressing that adds a delicious, tangy depth.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Balances the acidity with natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a subtle kick and creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all ingredients.
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds (optional): Sprinkle on top for an irresistible extra crunch.
How to Make Crunchy Cucumber and Apple Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. This simple yet flavorful dressing is where the salad’s tangy and slightly sweet personality begins to shine, so make sure the ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Slice and Combine the Vegetables and Fruit
Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion, then julienne or thinly slice the apples. Toss these fresh ingredients gently into the bowl with the dressing. Adding them to the dressing early ensures every crisp bite is full of flavor without becoming soggy.
Step 3: Add the Fresh Dill and Mix
Chop the fresh dill and sprinkle it over the salad. Gently toss everything together once again to distribute the herb evenly, infusing each forkful with its aromatic freshness that complements the cucumber and apple perfectly.
Step 4: Let the Salad Rest
Allow the salad to sit for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature. This little wait time lets the flavors meld and the dressing soak into the veggies and fruit, building complexity and depth in every mouthful.
Step 5: Add Crunchy Toppings and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds on top. This final touch adds a delightful crunchy contrast to the tender apples and cucumbers, making the salad truly irresistible. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best results.
How to Serve Crunchy Cucumber and Apple Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh finishing touch, consider adding a small handful of microgreens or a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest. Both garnishes uplift the salad’s presentation and add light herbal or citrusy notes that pair beautifully with the existing flavors.
Side Dishes
This salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or flaky fish, making for well-rounded meals. It’s also a bright and refreshing side for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks, where its freshness provides a lovely counterbalance to heavier dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in clear glass bowls to highlight its vibrant colors, or layer it in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches. For a fun twist, scoop it into crisp lettuce leaves to create crunchy, bite-sized salad cups that are perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for up to two days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crunchy texture. If you notice the apples darkening, a quick toss with a splash of lemon juice can help brighten them back up.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing due to its fresh, crisp ingredients. Freezing would cause the cucumber and apples to lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating
There is no need to reheat this salad as it is best served fresh or chilled. If stored in the fridge, simply give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and restore its crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar adds a fruity tang that perfectly complements the apples, you can experiment with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a milder acidity. Just adjust the amount to taste.
What apples work best for this salad?
For the best texture and flavor, go for crisp and slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady. These varieties maintain their crunch and balance the salad’s sweet and tangy notes wonderfully.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute honey with maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener, and your Crunchy Cucumber and Apple Salad Recipe will be completely vegan-friendly without losing any flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Definitely. All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, so this refreshing salad is safe for anyone avoiding gluten.
How long should the salad sit before serving?
Letting the salad sit for about 10 to 15 minutes allows the flavors of the dressing to meld beautifully with the cucumbers, apples, and dill without sacrificing the crisp texture that makes this salad so delightful.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Crunchy Cucumber and Apple Salad Recipe that makes it impossible to resist, from its lively textures to its bright, balanced flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick, no-cook side or a light meal packed with freshness, give this salad a try — I promise it’ll become one of your most loved recipes in no time!
Print
Crunchy Cucumber and Apple Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and crunchy cucumber and apple salad tossed in a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing with fresh dill, perfect as a light side dish or accompaniment to grilled meats.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 medium apples, julienned or thinly sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds (optional for crunch)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the vegetables and fruit: Add the cucumber, apples, red onion, and fresh dill to the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss the salad: Gently toss all ingredients together to evenly coat with the dressing.
- Let flavors meld: Allow the salad to sit for 10–15 minutes so the flavors can blend and develop.
- Add crunch and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for added texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and balance of sweetness and tartness.
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a refreshing side for picnics and potlucks.
