Apple, Cucumber, and Green Pepper Salad with Cilantro: A Fresh, Flavorful Delight
Apple, Cucumber, and Green Pepper Salad with Cilantro is a quick and refreshing recipe that’s perfect for any meal.
This easy-to-make salad requires no fancy equipment and features a balance of fresh, sweet, tart, and spicy flavors.
Combining apples, pickled cucumbers, and green peppers with fragrant cilantro creates a vibrant dish for all occasions, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
Simple and Versatile Ingredients
This salad lets you get creative with your ingredients, making it perfect for customization.
Choose your favorite apples and cucumbers—whether you deseed them or not is up to you.
The key to this dish is cutting all ingredients into roughly the same size for an enhanced eating experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 small cucumber (peeled if thick-skinned)
- 2 sweet apples
- Juice of half a lime
- Half a green bell pepper or jalapenos (deseed if preferred)
- Handful of cilantro (or substitute with mint)
- Salt and chili flakes to taste
- 1-2 tbsp of vinegar for pickling (rice vinegar works great)
Step-by-Step Guide: Preparing the Salad
Pickling the Cucumbers
Begin by peeling the cucumber if it has a thick skin. Slice it in half, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, and cut the cucumber into bite-sized dice.
Place the diced cucumber in a bowl and sprinkle a teaspoon of salt (or less if using kosher salt) and a teaspoon of sugar.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for spice and 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar. Toss everything together and set it aside.
Preparing the Apples and Green Peppers
Chop the apples into similar-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for extra texture if you prefer.
Add the chopped apples to the cucumber mixture. For the green peppers, dice them small and add them to the bowl as well.
Adding Cilantro
Finely chop a handful of cilantro leaves and add them to the salad. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, feel free to substitute it with parsley, mint, or basil. You can also mix herbs for extra flavor.
Finishing Touches
Combine all the ingredients by stirring with a spoon or fork. Taste and season with salt and chili flakes.
You can also add some of the pickling liquid for extra tang. The result is a crunchy, fresh, and flavorful salad that’s ready to serve!
Optional Additions
Feel free to add radishes, spring onions, or any other veggies you like. This Apple, Cucumber, and Green Pepper Salad is versatile, so experiment with different combinations.
Conclusion: A Refreshing Salad for All Seasons
The Apple, Cucumber, and Green Pepper Salad with Cilantro is a delicious and versatile recipe that suits any occasion.
Whether you’re preparing a quick meal for yourself or a fresh dish for a gathering, this salad offers the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
Plus, with its easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a go-to option for anyone looking to add a healthy, refreshing dish to their repertoire.
FAQs
Can I use different types of vinegar for pickling the cucumbers?
Yes, you can use rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even white vinegar depending on your taste preference. Each type will add a slightly different flavor to the salad.
What can I substitute for cilantro if I don’t like it?
If cilantro isn’t your favorite, parsley, mint, or basil are great alternatives that will still provide freshness to the salad.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. However, keep the apples separate until just before serving to avoid them turning brown.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan or gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Certainly! You can add grilled chicken, tofu, or even nuts like almonds or walnuts to make it more filling.
Reference Links: