This salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring a mix of fresh vegetables, sweet fruits, and protein-rich red beans, all tied together with a tangy and slightly sweet dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 apples, cored and chopped
- 1 cup red beans, cooked and drained
- A handful of parsley, chopped
- 4 tablespoons thick yogurt
- 1 tablespoon coarse mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (instead of vanilla for a savory twist)
- 2 tablespoons fruit vinegar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, grated carrot, chopped tomato, chopped apples, and thinly sliced onion. Sprinkle with a little salt to help release the juices and set aside for a few minutes.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the thick yogurt, coarse mustard, Italian seasoning, fruit vinegar, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt, according to your taste.
- Combine Salad and Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Add the cooked red beans and gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the salad for a fresh, herby finish.
- Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Enjoy:
- Serve your Crunchy Cucumber and Apple Salad with Yogurt Mustard Dressing as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a nutritious addition to your meal.
Conclusion:
This salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, offering a healthy and satisfying eating experience. The creamy, tangy dressing complements the crisp vegetables and sweet fruits, making it a dish that’s sure to please a wide range of palates. Enjoy the freshness and simplicity of this salad any day of the week!