This crisp salad combines fresh green cabbage and cool cucumber for a refreshing side dish. It’s simple, healthy, and perfect for any meal!
Honestly, nothing beats the crunch of this salad on a hot day. I love tossing it with some lemon juice for an extra zing—so easy and so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This is the star of your salad! It’s crunchy and provides a great base. You can substitute with red cabbage for added color and a slightly different flavor.
Cucumber: A large cucumber adds crispness. If you can’t find it, zucchini can work too. Pickling cucumbers are also a fun choice if you’re looking for a more tangy vibe.
Green Onions: They add a mild onion flavor. If you want a stronger taste, go for regular onions, but use them sparingly. Chives work well too as a softer alternative.
Cilantro or Parsley: These herbs give freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try dill for a different yet equally refreshing taste.
Dressing: Lemon juice brightens everything up! If you don’t have it, vinegar is a solid replacement. Honey adds sweetness; agave syrup is a great substitute if you need it vegan.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch in My Cabbage Salad?
Getting that perfect crunch from the cabbage is all about how you slice and treat it. Thinly slicing the cabbage makes a big difference. Here’s how you can achieve the best texture:
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline for thin, even slices. A food processor can also work well.
- Once sliced, let the cabbage sit for a bit after mixing with the dressing. This softens it just enough without losing its crunch!
- Adding salt to the cabbage before mixing can draw out excess moisture, keeping your salad crispy.
This approach will ensure that every bite of your salad is fresh and delightful! Enjoy!
Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 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 fresh lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for balance)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy. You’ll need about 15 minutes for prepping and assembling everything, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld. All in all, just about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Veggies:
Start by taking a large bowl and combining the thinly sliced green cabbage, cucumber, and sliced green onions. This is where the crunch of the salad comes from!
2. Add the Fresh Herbs:
If you like a burst of flavor, toss in the chopped cilantro or parsley. This step is optional but really brings a fresh note to the salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together your lemon juice (or vinegar), olive oil, honey (if you want a bit of sweetness), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is nicely blended together.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your cabbage and cucumber mixture. Toss everything together well so that all the veggies get coated with the delicious dressing.
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together and gives the cabbage a chance to soften a little without losing its crunch.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
After it’s rested, give your salad a taste! You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your personal preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
This salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. It’s a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any meal! Dig in!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Red Cabbage Instead of Green Cabbage?
Absolutely! Red cabbage will not only work but will also add a beautiful color contrast to your salad. The flavor is similar, although red cabbage tends to be slightly sweeter and crunchier.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
It’s simple! Just omit the honey or sugar in the dressing, or substitute it with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based!
Can I Prepare This Salad a Day in Advance?
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. If you mix it all together too soon, the cabbage may become wilted.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cabbage will continue to soften, so it’s best to enjoy it on the first day for optimal crunch!
