There are certain dishes that hold more than just flavor—they carry the memory of warm days, familiar laughter, and the comforting rhythm of tradition. This Cucumber Apple Salad is one of those timeless recipes. It’s a dish I remember from the long, golden days of late summer, when the cucumbers were crisp from the garden and the apples had just begun to ripen in the orchard behind my grandmother’s house.
Each year, as August slipped into September, our family would gather for simple afternoon lunches on the porch. No occasion, no formal setting—just bowls of cool, fresh salad and glasses of lemonade sweating in the sun. The cucumber apple salad was always the centerpiece: light, tangy, and just sweet enough to please even the pickiest kids at the table.
It was never about complexity—just good ingredients, lovingly combined. It reminded us of nature’s generosity, of how something so humble could bring everyone to the table. And now, every time I prepare it, I’m wrapped in those memories. This salad remains my go-to dish when I want to offer something refreshing, nourishing, and effortlessly beautiful. Whether you’re hosting a summer brunch, packing a picnic, or simply looking for a quick, healthy side, this is a recipe worth making again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for warm weather: The salad is light and cooling, making it ideal for summer days or whenever you crave something crisp and refreshing.
- Naturally sweet and tangy: The apples bring sweetness, the vinegar adds tang, and a touch of honey balances the flavors.
- Quick and easy: It takes less than 10 minutes to whip up, with minimal prep and no cooking required.
- Customizable: Add herbs, seeds, or even nuts to make it your own. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or hearty sandwiches.
- Nutritious and wholesome: Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and hydrating ingredients, it’s a feel-good option for any meal.
Cucumber Apple Salad – A Crisp, Refreshing Summer Side Dish in Just 10 Minutes
Description
There are certain dishes that hold more than just flavor—they carry the memory of warm days, familiar laughter, and the comforting rhythm of tradition. This Cucumber Apple Salad is one of those timeless recipes. It’s a dish I remember from the long, golden days of late summer, when the cucumbers were crisp from the garden and the apples had just begun to ripen in the orchard behind my grandmother’s house.
Each year, as August slipped into September, our family would gather for simple afternoon lunches on the porch. No occasion, no formal setting—just bowls of cool, fresh salad and glasses of lemonade sweating in the sun. The cucumber apple salad was always the centerpiece: light, tangy, and just sweet enough to please even the pickiest kids at the table.
It was never about complexity—just good ingredients, lovingly combined. It reminded us of nature’s generosity, of how something so humble could bring everyone to the table. And now, every time I prepare it, I’m wrapped in those memories. This salad remains my go-to dish when I want to offer something refreshing, nourishing, and effortlessly beautiful. Whether you’re hosting a summer brunch, packing a picnic, or simply looking for a quick, healthy side, this is a recipe worth making again and again.
Ingredients
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1 medium English cucumber, diced
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2 apples (preferably one red, one green), cored and diced
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint or dill
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Produce
Start by washing and dicing your cucumber and apples into bite-sized cubes. Try to keep the pieces uniform for an even texture throughout. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, peel the apples, but keeping the skin adds beautiful color and extra fiber.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl or mason jar, combine lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well blended. The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps to prevent the apples from browning.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Place the cucumber and apple pieces in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. The apples will absorb some of the dressing, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped mint or dill on top for a refreshing herbal finish. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor, or chill for 10–15 minutes if you prefer it cold.
This Cucumber Apple Salad is a dish that lets ingredients shine. I often bring it to potlucks, and it’s always one of the first bowls to empty. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t shout—it whispers freshness in every bite.
Notes
If you’re preparing this dish for a larger group, double or triple the ingredients and serve it in a wide salad bowl for easy mixing. Leftovers keep well for a day in the fridge, but are best eaten fresh.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 1 medium English cucumber, diced
- 2 apples (preferably one red, one green), cored and diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint or dill
HOW TO MAKE “Cucumber Apple Salad”
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the Produce
Start by washing and dicing your cucumber and apples into bite-sized cubes. Try to keep the pieces uniform for an even texture throughout. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, peel the apples, but keeping the skin adds beautiful color and extra fiber.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl or mason jar, combine lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well blended. The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps to prevent the apples from browning.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Place the cucumber and apple pieces in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. The apples will absorb some of the dressing, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped mint or dill on top for a refreshing herbal finish. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor, or chill for 10–15 minutes if you prefer it cold.
This Cucumber Apple Salad is a dish that lets ingredients shine. I often bring it to potlucks, and it’s always one of the first bowls to empty. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t shout—it whispers freshness in every bite.
HELPFUL TIPS:
- Balance the apples: Using one tart apple (like Granny Smith) and one sweet apple (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) gives the salad a well-rounded flavor.
- Add crunch: Toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make an excellent addition for a crunchy twist.
- For a creamy version: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or avocado to the dressing for a smooth finish.
- Make ahead tip: You can chop the cucumber and prepare the dressing a day ahead. Just mix with the apples right before serving.
DETAILS:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Vegan-friendly, Gluten-Free
NOTES:
If you’re preparing this dish for a larger group, double or triple the ingredients and serve it in a wide salad bowl for easy mixing. Leftovers keep well for a day in the fridge, but are best eaten fresh.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving):
- Calories: 115
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Sugar: 9g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
1. Is it okay to mix cucumber and apple together?
Yes, mixing cucumber and apple is perfectly fine. Their crisp textures and refreshing flavors complement each other well, making a delicious and hydrating combination for salads, smoothies, or infused water. This duo is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients and fiber.
2. Can I eat apple and cucumber together for weight loss?
Absolutely! Apple and cucumber are both low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full longer. Eating them together can support healthy digestion, hydration, and appetite control, making them a great snack for weight loss.
3. What do apple and cucumber do for your body?
Apple and cucumber together provide a powerful boost of hydration, fiber, and antioxidants. Apples support heart and gut health, while cucumbers help flush out toxins and keep skin glowing. This combo promotes digestion, boosts energy, and supports overall wellness.
4. What fruit goes well with cucumber?
Cucumber pairs wonderfully with fruits like watermelon, strawberries, pineapple, oranges, and apples. These fruits balance cucumber’s mild flavor with natural sweetness and vibrant taste, perfect for refreshing salads, juices, or fruit-infused water.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For longer freshness, keep the dressing separate and mix just before eating.
Related Recipes:
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other refreshing creations:
- Pineapple Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing Sweet & Savory Dish
- A Summer Salad That Tastes Like Sunshine
- A Crisp Memory: The Story Behind the Amazing Viral Cucumber Pepper Salad
- Cucumber Feta Salad: A Crisp Bite of Mediterranean Summer
CONCLUSION
At its heart, the Cucumber Apple Salad is a celebration of simplicity. It reminds us that nourishing meals don’t need to be complicated. They need to be fresh, intentional, and made with love. Whether it’s part of your family barbecue, a lunch on the go, or the highlight of a picnic, this salad brings joy with every bite. I hope it finds a place in your kitchen and your memories, just as it has in mine.
