This Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad is a crispy delight! With crunchy cabbage and refreshing cucumbers, it’s a perfect side for any meal.
Honestly, this salad is so easy to whip up, and the crunch is just satisfying! I love adding a splash of lemon juice for a zesty touch—it makes everything pop!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This is the star of the salad! Its crunchiness adds great texture. If you’re in the mood for something different, try using red cabbage for a pop of color, or napa cabbage for a milder flavor.
Cucumber: A refreshing addition! English cucumbers have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them ideal. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work well too. You can also substitute with zucchini for a unique twist.
Carrot: This is optional but adds sweetness and color. If you’re looking for lower-carb options, you could use grated radish for a peppery kick. Both are great for adding some crunch!
Olive Oil: For the dressing, I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you prefer, you could swap it for other oils like avocado oil or sesame oil to give a different taste.
How Can I Make Sure My Salad Is Well Mixed?
Mixing the salad thoroughly is essential to evenly distribute the dressing. Here’s how to ensure every bite is flavorful:
- Use a large bowl to give the ingredients space to move.
- Start by adding the dressing to the bowl, then toss the cabbage, cucumber, and other ingredients in. I find using my hands works best for this!
- Don’t rush—the salad needs to rest. This lets the ingredients soak in the dressing, enhancing the flavor.
Enjoy this simple yet delightful salad with your meals or on its own! It’s refreshing and perfect for warm days.
Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1 small carrot, grated (optional for color and sweetness)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for a fresh side at dinner or a light lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by finely slicing the green cabbage and cucumber. If you’re using a carrot for extra color and sweetness, grate it. Chop up the green onions and herbs as well. In a large bowl, combine all these fresh ingredients — the cabbage, cucumber, grated carrot, green onions, and your choice of parsley or cilantro.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, take the olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), and honey or sugar (if you want a touch of sweetness). Whisk them together with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture. Now, it’s time to get in there and toss everything together! Make sure every piece of cabbage and cucumber is nicely coated in that delicious dressing.
4. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This is a great time for the flavors to mingle and become even tastier. It also helps the cabbage soften just a little.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, it’s time to eat! Serve your refreshing salad either chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy this light, crunchy side dish with your meal!
FAQ for Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the cabbage from becoming soggy. Combine the salad ingredients and refrigerate, then toss with the dressing just before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh parsley or cilantro on hand, you can skip them altogether or substitute with dried herbs. Just be mindful to use less dried herb as it’s more potent; about 1 teaspoon should suffice.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cabbage may continue to soften over time. If you’re worried about texture, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it in again when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for a different flavor and texture. Just mix and match your favorite veggies to suit your palate!
