There is nothing quite like a crisp, vibrant side dish to brighten up a heavy meal, and this Paleo Apple-Cucumber Relish is my absolute go-to when I want something refreshing. The combination of tart apples, cool cucumber, and zesty lime juice creates a flavor explosion that is both light and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a quick snack, this relish is proof that healthy eating never has to be boring!
Ingredients
- 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and diced (approx. 6 oz / 170g)
- 1 cup peeled, diced English cucumber (approx. 5.3 oz / 150g)
- 0.5 cup diced jicama (approx. 2.3 oz / 65g)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened apple cider or apple juice (approx. 1 oz / 30g)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (approx. 1 oz / 30g)
- 2 tbsp very finely minced red onion (approx. 0.7 oz / 20g)
- 0.5 tbsp minced fresh flat-leaf (Italian) parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the apple by peeling, coring, and dicing 1 Granny Smith apple (approx. 6 oz / 170g) and placing it into a medium mixing bowl.
- Add 1 cup (5.3 oz / 150g) of peeled, diced English cucumber and 0.5 cup (2.3 oz / 65g) of diced jicama to the bowl with the apple.
- Pour 2 tbsp (1 oz / 30g) of unsweetened apple cider and 2 tbsp (1 oz / 30g) of fresh lime juice over the mixture.
- Add 2 tbsp (0.7 oz / 20g) of very finely minced red onion and 0.5 tbsp of minced fresh flat-leaf parsley to the bowl.
- Combine all the ingredients thoroughly, stirring until the mixture is well-coated with the juices.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture, or cover tightly and refrigerate until you are ready to serve.
Variations:
- Lemon Cucumber: If available, swap the English cucumber for lemon cucumbers for a unique twist.
- Add Color: Mix in 0.25 cup (approx. 1.3 oz / 37g) of diced red bell peppers for added sweetness and vibrant color.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 42 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Uniform Dicing is Key: Take the time to cut your apple, cucumber, and jicama into small, uniform cubes (about 1/4 inch). This ensures you get a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and cool flavors in every single bite, rather than large chunks of a single ingredient.
- Prevents Browning: Don’t skip or reduce the lime juice! Aside from adding zesty flavor, the acidity is crucial for preventing the Granny Smith apples from oxidizing (turning brown). Toss the apples in the lime juice immediately after cutting to keep them vibrant.
- Manage the Moisture: Cucumbers have a high water content. If you plan to let the dish sit for more than an hour, consider scooping the seeds out of the cucumber before dicing. This keeps the relish crisp and prevents the dressing from becoming watered down.
- Enhance the Crunch: For the crispest texture, ensure your ingredients are ice-cold before you start chopping. You can even soak the diced jicama in ice water for 10 minutes (and pat dry thoroughly) before mixing to maximize its snap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this Paleo Apple-Cucumber Relish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but for the best texture, it is best to store the chopped vegetables and the dressing separately. Combine and toss everything together just before serving to maintain that signature crunch and prevent the relish from becoming watery.
What main dishes pair best with this apple cucumber relish? This relish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, particularly pork chops, grilled chicken breast, or flaky white fish. The acidity and sweetness of the relish cut through the richness of savory or fatty proteins perfectly, creating a balanced meal.
Is jicama necessary for this recipe, and what can I substitute it with? Jicama adds a unique, starchy crunch and mild sweetness that holds up well in relish. If you cannot find it at your local grocery store, you can substitute it with crisp celery or even radishes, although the flavor profile will be slightly sharper.
How long does this relish last in the refrigerator? This relish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that as it sits, the cucumber will release water, so you may need to drain excess liquid before serving leftovers.
I really hope you give this fresh and crunchy Paleo Apple-Cucumber Relish a try! It is such a simple way to elevate a meal with bright, clean flavors without any complicated steps. Whether you serve it alongside a hearty main dish or enjoy it as a light snack, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out for you or if you tried the red pepper variation!
