This Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad is super crisp and refreshing. With crunchy cabbage and cool cucumber, it’s perfect for any meal!
I love to whip this up in no time and enjoy it as a side or a snack. Just toss the veggies together, add a zesty dressing, and you’re set for a tasty treat! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This is the star of the salad! Its crunchy texture and mild taste make it a perfect base. If you’re trying to lower your cabbage intake, kale or Brussels sprouts can be great alternatives.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds a refreshing crunch. If you want to switch it up, you can use zucchini or radishes for a different flavor and texture.
Green Onions: These add a nice sharpness. If you don’t have them, regular onions or shallots will work, but use them sparingly as they have a stronger flavor.
Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the salad. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh dill or basil for a unique touch.
Lemon Juice or Vinegar: Both add acidity to balance the richness of the oil. You can use apple cider vinegar or lime juice as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Make the Best Salad Dressing?
Making a tasty salad dressing is simple! Start by mixing your acid (lemon juice or vinegar) with olive oil in a small bowl. Adding honey or sugar sweetens it, balancing the acidity nicely.
- Whisk until it’s well combined—this helps the oil and acid to mix better.
- Season it to taste with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or vinegar to suit your taste.
Letting the salad rest in the fridge allows the flavors to mix, enhancing the taste. Enjoy your fresh and crisp salad!
Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 3 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
For The Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh salad is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes of prep time to chop the ingredients and whisk the dressing. Plus, about 15-20 minutes to chill the salad in the refrigerator, making the total time around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the thinly sliced green cabbage, cucumber, and sliced green onions. If you’re using cilantro or parsley, chop it up and add it to the mix for a pop of flavor!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice (or vinegar), olive oil, and honey (or sugar) until everything is well combined. This will create a delightful dressing for your salad.
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and cucumber mixture. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that all the veggies are well coated with the dressing. This helps all those delicious flavors meld together!
4. Season and Chill:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Then, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to really come together and makes the salad nice and refreshing.
5. Serve:
Once chilled, take the salad out and give it a quick toss again before serving. Enjoy it as a crunchy and fresh side dish or a light snack on its own!
Dig in and enjoy your refreshing Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad!
FAQ for Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Red Cabbage Instead of Green Cabbage?
Absolutely! Red cabbage will give your salad a beautiful color and a slightly sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that red cabbage may have a denser texture, which can add a nice crunch!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the salad may become a bit soggy as it sits, so it’s best to eat it fresh. If you have extra dressing, store it separately and add it just before serving to maintain crispness.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even nuts and seeds for extra crunch. Just be mindful of the balance of flavors and textures!
Is This Salad Vegan?
Yes! This Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad is completely vegan. The dressing is made with olive oil and vinegar, which are both plant-based. Enjoy this healthy salad worry-free!
