This crunchy cucumber apple salad is a refreshing mix of crisp cucumbers and sweet apples. Toss it with a light dressing for a bright and tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal!
This salad is a no-fuss favorite of mine. It’s quick to make, and I love how the flavors pop! It’s like a little crunch party on your plate—who wouldn’t want that? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I love using English cucumbers for their crisp texture and minimal seeds. If they’re not available, you can use regular cucumbers but make sure to peel them for a smoother bite.
Green Apples: Granny Smith apples bring a nice tartness. If you prefer sweeter flavors, Honeycrisp apples work great too. You can even use any apple you have on hand; just adjust the dressing to suit your taste!
Radishes: These add a nice crunch and peppery kick. If you’re not a fan, you can easily skip them or swap with bell peppers or jicama for a different flavor and crunch.
Greek Yogurt: I find Greek yogurt adds a nice creaminess. For a dairy-free option, opt for coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt that fits your diet.
Honey or Maple Syrup: For a vegan version, go with maple syrup instead of honey. You can also adjust the sweetness based on your preference—just taste as you go!
How Do I Make Sure the Salad Stays Crunchy?
Keeping that delightful crunch is all about timing and moisture control. Start by slicing cucumbers and apples right before mixing them in. This minimizes their time exposed to air, which can make them soggy.
- When mixing, toss everything gently to keep the pieces intact.
- Chilling the salad helps the flavors meld without losing crunch. Just don’t let it sit too long before serving to maintain that texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container if you have any; it helps keep the salad from getting mushy!
Enjoy this fresh salad as a snack or side—it’s perfect for barbeques, potlucks, or just a quick bite!
Easy Crunchy Cucumber Apple Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 medium green apples, thinly sliced
- 5-6 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is super quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep time. After mixing everything, letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes is a good idea to let the flavors meld together. In total, plan for about 25 minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits:
Start by slicing your cucumbers, green apples, and radishes into thin pieces. Try to keep them similar in size to help with even mixing and presentation. Place them all in a large mixing bowl to get things started.
2. Add the Fresh Ingredients:
Add the chopped mint leaves, finely chopped green onions, and the zest of one lemon to the bowl with the cucumber and apple mix. The fresh mint and lemon zest will brighten up the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (or maple syrup), and salt and pepper. Mix until you have a smooth and creamy dressing. This will be the heart of your salad!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cucumber and apple mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before chilling, take a moment to taste the salad. If it needs a little more seasoning, feel free to add more salt or pepper according to your taste!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 15 minutes before serving. This also helps the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Enjoy!
After chilling, give the salad a gentle toss again and serve it cold as a refreshing side dish or light snack. Enjoy your crunchy, delicious creation!
FAQ About Easy Crunchy Cucumber Apple Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While green apples like Granny Smith add a nice tartness, you can use any variety you prefer—such as Honeycrisp for sweetness or Fuji for a mix of both! Just remember to adjust the dressing to balance any extra sweetness.
How Do I Keep the Salad Fresh for Longer?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days. You might want to keep the dressing separate if you’re preparing it in advance, allowing you to mix everything right before serving for maximum crunch!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the Greek yogurt for a non-dairy alternative, like coconut yogurt or almond yogurt, and use maple syrup instead of honey. This way, you can enjoy the salad while keeping it entirely plant-based!
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs nicely with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light side at picnics and potlucks. It’s also delicious on its own as a refreshing snack! Feel free to get creative and serve it alongside your favorite dishes!
