This crunchy salad mixes fresh green cabbage and cool cucumbers for a refreshing dish. It’s light, healthy, and full of crisp flavors that make it a winner on hot days!
I love how quick it is to whip up—just chop, toss, and enjoy! Perfect alongside grilled meats or as a snack on its own. 🥗 Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This is the base of your salad, providing a crunchy texture. If you can’t find green cabbage, you can use Napa cabbage or even red cabbage for a pop of color and slight flavor change.
Cucumber: A refreshing addition! I prefer English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds. If you want a sweeter option, try Persian cucumbers. In a pinch, zucchini could work too!
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro or parsley adds freshness. If you’re not a fan of these herbs, try dill or basil for a different taste. Or simply leave them out!
Vinegars: Rice vinegar adds a mild sweetness, but apple cider vinegar can work if that’s what you have. You can even use white wine vinegar for a different twist.
Sweetener: Honey gives a nice touch of sweetness, but for a vegan option, maple syrup works just as well. You could omit it entirely for a tart salad too!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch in My Salad?
To maintain a great crunch, it’s key to choose fresh, crispy vegetables and prepare them correctly. Here are some tips:
- Use the freshest cabbage and cucumber to ensure they’re not wilting.
- Slice the cabbage as thinly as possible—this helps it stay crisp. A sharp knife or mandoline can be very helpful here.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps everything extra crunchy.
Lastly, serve immediately after tossing, or add the dressing right before serving to avoid wilting the veggies!
Refreshing Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for prep time. Plus, give it at least 15-20 minutes in the fridge to chill and allow the flavors to come together. So, total time would be around 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, add the thinly sliced green cabbage, cucumber, green onions, and any herbs you’re using. If you have a knife or a mandoline, slice the cabbage as thinly as you can for that crunch!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, mix together the fresh lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined. This dressing adds a refreshing zing to the salad!
3. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the veggies in the large bowl. Toss everything together with your hands or a big spoon until the vegetables are completely coated in the dressing. This is where all that flavor gets mixed in!
4. Chill and Let Flavor Develop:
Cover the salad and pop it in the fridge for at least 15-20 minutes. This time is important because it helps the flavors meld together and keeps the salad nice and cool.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss to mix things up. If you like, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts on top for some extra crunch and flavor!
6. Enjoy Your Salad!
Serve cold as a delightful side dish with grilled or roasted meats, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing snack. It’s a perfect way to enjoy fresh veggies!
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is the star of this salad, you can substitute it with Napa cabbage for a milder taste or even red cabbage for a vibrant touch. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No problem! If you don’t have cilantro or parsley on hand, you can skip them entirely or use other fresh herbs like dill or basil. You could also simply enjoy the salad without any herbs — it will still be delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
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 may become softer 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 a few hours ahead of serving. Just dress it right before serving to keep the cabbage crisp. Alternatively, you can store the veggies and dressing separately in advance and combine them when you’re ready to eat.
