Crisp, light, and refreshing come to mind when describing this Cucumber and Apple Salad. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy! Juicy apples and crunchy cucumbers combine with a light, zesty dressing for a simple yet vibrant dish in about 10 minutes.
In this cucumber apple salad recipe, both the cucumbers and apples are julienned, meaning they're cut into thin, matchstick-like strips.
This technique not only gives the salad a beautiful texture but also allows the flavors to blend more evenly. The thin slices allow the dressing to coat every piece, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
I use an excellent mandoline I've had for over a decade that has never dulled or you can also use a julienne peeler for even thinner strips.
This technique makes the salad look elegant and restaurant-worthy.
No need for oversized bites - just grab a forkful and enjoy the perfect mix of textures!
Whether you're looking for a healthy side, a refreshing summer salad, or a quick snack, this recipe is packed with fresh ingredients and ready in just minutes. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or a light lunch, this salad is proof that simple ingredients can create the most delicious flavors!
Serve it any time of the year alongside Simple Red Lentil Soup or Vegan Falafel Wrap. And if you're trying to use more cucumbers, try Cucumber Pico De Gallo, Mango Cucumber Salsa, or Asian Spicy Cucumber Salad.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crisp cucumbers and juicy apples make this salad hydrating and fresh, so it's perfect as a side dish.
- Ready in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Great for BBQs, picnics, brunch, or a light side dish any time of year.
- You can enjoy it alongside Baked Pesto Tofu, Vegan Egg Roll Bowl, or your favorite mains like Mongolian Tofu.
Ingredients
Using Persian or English cucumbers is ideal because they have thin, tender skins (no peeling needed) and fewer seeds, which makes the salad crisp, refreshing, and less watery. Their mild, slightly sweet flavor also pairs perfectly with the apples, enhancing the balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.
Sunflower seeds can be substituted with any nut or seeds.
See the recipe card for quantities and a full list of ingredients.
Variations
- Opt for Granny Smith for tartness instead or in addition to the sweet apples.
- Try fresh mint, basil, or parsley instead of dill for a different flavor profile.
- Add chickpeas, avocado, quinoa, or toasted almonds to make it more filling while keeping it plant-based.
- Sprinkle with vegan feta and red onions for a Mediterranean touch.
- Add baby spinach, arugula, or kale to make it a heartier salad.
- Visit 9 Tips To Making Salads Filling for more ideas on variations.
How To Make Cucumber and Apple Salad
See the recipe card for any details.
Step 1: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl.
Step 2: Adjust the salt and sweetness if necessary.
Top Tips
- I highly recommend using a mandoline to julienne the ingredients.
- To prevent apples from browning quickly, cut them last before tossing everything together. Once thrown together, it will slow oxidation and prevent browning.
- I like this salad with this light dressing so that I can taste the freshness of the other ingredients. Feel free to add more olive oil, lemon juice, and salt for a more robust flavor, or dress it with some of the dressings below.
- Optional: Let the salad sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors and keep it extra refreshing.
- This recipe yields 4 small side-dish portions. Double the recipe if you're taking it to a get-together.
Serving Suggestions
- Delicious alongside smoked tofu, Chipotle Black Bean Burger, or a Mediterranean Grain Bowl.
- Serve it with Lupini Bean Hummus, Falafel Pita Sandwich, or a warm pita bread for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy it with lentil patties, chickpea tuna salad, or a marinated tempeh dish.
- Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or outdoor gatherings, served chilled for maximum refreshment.
Storage
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
The cucumbers and apples will release water over time, making the salad slightly watery and less firm but still delicious. To freshen it up before serving, give it a quick toss and drain any excess liquid.
More Dressing Options
This cucumber salad is light and fresh, but you can easily intensify the flavors by trying different vegan dressings.
- For a sweet and tangy twist, drizzle it with a Blueberry Salad Dressing for a fruity punch.
- If you're craving something with an Asian-inspired flair, an Asian Sesame Dressing adds a nutty, umami depth.
- A Vegan Cilantro Lime Dressing brings a citrusy kick that pairs perfectly with the crisp apples.
- For a more classic approach, a Classic French Salad Dressing adds a balanced blend of acidity and richness.
- If you're in the mood for something slightly sweet and savory, try a Vegan Honey Mustard Dressing, or go for a Creamy Vegan Poppy Seed Dressing to add a smooth, lightly sweet flavor that complements the crunch of the cucumbers and apples.
Recipe FAQS
Yes! But for the freshest flavor, assemble it just before serving. If prepping ahead, toss the apples in lemon juice to prevent browning and store everything separately until ready to mix.
It's best fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The cucumbers may release water, so give it a quick toss before serving.
More Delicious Salads
Recipe Card
Cucumber and Apple Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 Persian cucumbers julienned; or 1 English cucumber
- 1 large sweet apple honeycrisp, gala, fuji, or pink ladies, julienned
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill packed and chopped; sub with mint
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon salt to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds or crushed walnuts
- ¼ scant cup red onions optional; sliced or chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cucumber and apples.
- Pour in the lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle with fresh dill (or mint), sunflower seeds and optional red onions.
- Serve immediately or let it chill for 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Regi Pearce says
This salad is refreshing, crisp, & so easy. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and it comes together in just minutes! The julienned texture really makes a difference. It allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, and every bite is perfectly coated in the dressing. Plus, it stays nice and crisp!