This Refreshing Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is crisp and full of flavor! With crunchy cabbage and cool cucumber, it’s the perfect side dish for any meal.
I love how simple it is to whip up—just chop, mix, and enjoy! It’s a great way to get your veggies in without the fuss. Plus, it’s so refreshing that it will make you feel like summer all year round!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This is the main player in the salad. It gives a nice crunch and absorbs the dressing well. If you want a milder flavor, you can substitute with Napa cabbage, which is softer and sweeter.
Cucumber: A refreshing addition, I love using English cucumbers because they’re seedless and have a thin skin. If these aren’t available, regular cucumbers work too; just peel them if the skin is tough.
Cilantro: While this adds a fresh herb taste, feel free to substitute with parsley or omit it altogether if you’re not a fan of cilantro. Some people find it has a soapy taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor. If you don’t have lemons, lime juice can be a great alternative for a slightly different tang.
Honey: It adds sweetness to balance the acidity. If you’re vegan, use agave syrup or maple syrup instead. For a sugar-free option, you can use a sugar substitute suitable for dressings.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for This Salad?
The dressing ties everything together, so it’s important to get it right! Here’s how to make a great dressing:
- Start with fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Whisk in olive oil slowly to create an emulsion for a creamy texture.
- Add honey or agave for sweetness and stir well.
- Season with salt and pepper. Adjust to your taste, as some people prefer a punchier flavor.
Once made, pour the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the veggies crisp. Chilling the salad before serving helps the flavors meld nicely!
Refreshing Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings:
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve. It’s quick and perfect for a fresh side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Vegetables:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the thinly sliced green cabbage and cucumber. This combination is the base of your salad. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slicing!
2. Add Fresh Herbs and Onions:
Next, sprinkle in the chopped cilantro (if using) and the sliced green onions. These will add a wonderful freshness and flavor to your salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey or agave syrup, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined to make a smooth dressing.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and cucumber mixture. Be gentle when tossing to make sure all the veggies get coated without getting mushy!
5. Add the Final Touches:
If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top of the salad. This is optional but adds a lovely texture.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld beautifully. When ready to serve, enjoy this refreshing side dish!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes to add more variety. Just remember to slice them thinly to ensure they blend well with the cabbage and cucumber.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, try to consume it within 1-2 days, as the vegetables may become softer over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the veggies. Toss everything together just before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Honey or Agave Syrup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use maple syrup or a granulated sugar alternative. If you’re avoiding added sugars, simply omit it and adjust with a little extra salt or lemon juice to taste!
