When the weather is warm and you’re looking for a refreshing and healthy side dish, this Cucumber Grape Salad is an excellent choice. The crispness of the cucumber combined with the sweetness of the grapes, all tied together with a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, makes for a delightful and nutritious dish. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad is both easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 oz (3/4 cup) Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Juice of 1 small lemon
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups (about 1 lb) seedless red grapes, halved
- 1 cucumber, halved and sliced
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until smooth.
- Season the Dressing:
- Add the poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate.
Assemble the Salad
- Prepare the Vegetables and Fruit:
- Wash the cucumber and grapes thoroughly. Halve the grapes and slice the cucumber into thin half-moons.
- Combine in a Large Bowl:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved grapes and sliced cucumber.
- Add the Dressing:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber and grapes. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Add the Crunch:
- Just before serving, sprinkle the slivered almonds over the top for a delightful crunch.
Serving
- Serve Immediately:
- This salad is best served immediately while the cucumbers are still crisp and the almonds retain their crunch. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, add the almonds just before serving to ensure they stay crunchy.
Cook’s Notes and Variations
- Yogurt Substitution: If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular plain yogurt or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option.
- Add More Fruit: Feel free to add more fruits like sliced apples or pears for added sweetness and texture.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs such as mint or basil can add a wonderful freshness to the salad. Chop finely and add them to the dressing or as a garnish.
- Nuts and Seeds: Instead of almonds, you can use other nuts or seeds like walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
- Spice it Up: For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Keep the dressing and the salad separate and combine them just before serving. This will keep the cucumbers and almonds from becoming soggy.
Q: What if I don’t have poppy seeds? A: If you don’t have poppy seeds, you can leave them out or substitute with chia seeds for a similar texture.
Q: Can I use a different type of cucumber? A: Yes, you can use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a crisper texture compared to regular cucumbers.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the almonds may lose their crunchiness over time.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad? A: Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can turn this salad into a more substantial meal.
This Cucumber Grape Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its creamy yogurt dressing and the refreshing crunch of cucumbers and grapes, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this salad as a side dish or add your favorite protein to make it a main course. Either way, it’s a healthy and delicious choice that’s easy to prepare and a joy to eat.
