This bright and crunchy salad is a perfect side dish! It features crisp green cabbage and refreshing cucumber, mixed with a light dressing that’s both zesty and delicious.
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for those busy days. I love enjoying it with grilled meats; it adds a nice, refreshing touch to every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This is the star of the salad! It’s crunchy and adds great texture. If you can’t find green cabbage, you could use Napa cabbage or even kale for a twist.
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers for their thin skin and seedless nature, but any cucumber will work. If you want extra crunch, try using Persian cucumbers.
Cilantro: This adds a fresh flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute, or you could skip it entirely. Fresh dill also works beautifully here!
Lemon or Lime Juice: Both add acidity to balance the flavors. If you prefer, replace it with vinegar such as red wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a different note.
Sugar or Honey: This balances out the tartness. If you’re looking for alternatives, agave syrup or maple syrup will do the trick as well!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Cabbage for a Salad?
Slicing cabbage might seem straightforward, but here’s how to make it easier and get it just right. You want it thin for the best bite! Follow these steps:
- First, remove any tough outer leaves and cut the cabbage in half. Place the cut side down for stability.
- Slice from top to bottom, making thin strips. Aim for about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick for that perfect crunch.
- If you want, chop the strips into smaller pieces to fit your preference.
Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect; a little variety in size adds character to your salad!
How Do You Make the Dressing Stick to the Salad?
For the dressing to cling nicely to the veggies, here’s a tip: ensure your cabbage and cucumbers are dry before tossing them in the dressing. Excess water can dilute the flavors. Here’s how:
- After rinsing, spin the cabbage in a salad spinner or pat it dry with a clean towel.
- Mix the dressing separately and then pour it over the vegetables just before serving for the best flavor.
- Let it rest for a little while to absorb the flavor, but not too long or the vegetables will soften too much!
Enjoy making this colorful and vibrant salad! It’s sure to be a hit at any table.
Refreshing 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, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for freshness)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or a light vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, and it’s best to let it sit for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature for the flavors to come together. If you prefer, chilling it in the fridge for a bit makes it even more refreshing. Total time is approximately 20-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by rinsing your green cabbage and cucumber under cold water. This will ensure they are clean and fresh. Next, thinly slice the cabbage into strips and do the same with the cucumber. If you’d like, you can julienne the cucumber for a different look and texture.
2. Combine in a Bowl:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cabbage, cucumber, and green onions. If you love the flavor of cilantro, add the chopped cilantro at this stage for an extra fresh kick!
3. Mix the Dressing:
Grab a small bowl and whisk together the fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, sugar (or honey), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until the sugar or honey dissolves and the dressing is smooth and well combined.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and cucumber mixture. Use your hands or salad tongs to toss everything together! Make sure all the veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Let it Rest:
After tossing, let your salad sit for at least 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. If you prefer a colder salad, pop it in the fridge for a little bit to chill.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the salad another quick toss. If you’d like, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty flavor and lovely crunch!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your refreshing green cabbage and cucumber salad as a delightful side dish to grilled foods, sandwiches, or just enjoy it on its own as a light snack.
Enjoy your crisp, fresh salad!
FAQs for Refreshing Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even shredded radishes for added crunch and color. Just make sure to keep the proportions balanced!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cabbage might soften over time, so it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad and the dressing separately. Mix them just before serving to keep the cabbage and cucumber crisp. If you want to make it even quicker, chop the veggies a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to dress the salad.
Is There a Substitute for Honey or Sugar in the Dressing?
Definitely! Agave nectar, maple syrup, or even a sugar substitute can work well if you prefer a different sweetener. Just adjust the amount to taste based on the sweetness you desire!
Feel free to ask if you have more questions! Enjoy your salad!
