This Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad is a crispy and tasty dish! With shredded cabbage and cool cucumber, it’s perfect for a light meal or a side.
It’s super easy to whip up! Just toss everything together with some dressing, and boom—dinner is ready! I love how refreshing it is, especially on warm days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Cabbage: This forms the salad’s base and gives it a satisfying crunch. If you’re looking for a softer texture, Napa cabbage is a great alternative. It’s milder and more tender.
Cucumber: For that extra freshness, English cucumbers are best because they have fewer seeds. However, any variety works! Just remember to peel thicker ones if you’re concerned about bitterness.
Herbs: I enjoy adding fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of flavor. If you’re not a fan of either, try dill or mint for a different twist!
Onion: Red onions offer a milder taste, but you can swap them for green onions or omit them altogether if you prefer less bite.
Honey or Sugar: This ingredient balances acidity. If you’re vegan, maple syrup or agave nectar will work wonderfully in place of honey!
How Do You Get Perfectly Shredded Cabbage?
Shredding cabbage can seem tricky, but it’s super easy! Here’s my method:
- First, remove the core from the cabbage by cutting it into quarters. This makes it easier to shred.
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice as thinly as you can. The thinner the strips, the better they soak up the dressing and flavors!
- If you like a finer texture, you can run your knife through the shreds again to chop it even more.
Make sure to take your time with this step. Properly shredded cabbage will make your salad lighter and more enjoyable!
Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Components:
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional for slight sweetness)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick side dish or a light meal. If you give it a chance to sit for a few minutes, the flavors blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Vegetables:
Start by rinsing the green cabbage and cucumber thoroughly under cold water. Drain them well to remove excess moisture. This keeps your salad crunchy!
2. Shred the Cabbage:
Using either a sharp knife or a mandoline, finely shred the cabbage. If you don’t have a mandoline, just take your time with your knife to get nice, thin strips!
3. Prepare the Cucumber:
Next, slice or julienne the cucumber. If the cucumber has thick skin or many seeds, feel free to peel and deseed it for a smoother texture in the salad.
4. Chop Additional Ingredients:
If you’re using red onion and fresh herbs, finely slice the onion and chop the herbs into small pieces. They’ll add great flavor to your salad!
5. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, cucumber, red onion, and herbs. This is where all those fresh flavors come together!
6. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice (or vinegar), olive oil, honey (or sugar), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is nicely combined and emulsified.
7. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything well, making sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
8. Allow the Flavors to Meld:
Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Taste it after that and adjust the seasoning if needed!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the salad immediately for a crisp side dish, or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing treat later. Enjoy this vibrant salad alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or simply as a light snack!
Happy eating!
FAQ for Fresh Green Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is the star here, you can also use Napa cabbage for a milder taste or red cabbage for added color and crunch. Your salad will still be delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cabbage may soften as it sits, so it’s best to enjoy it soon after making!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the salad vegan-friendly. The dressing will still be wonderfully balanced and tasty!
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
For a heartier salad, you can add some cooked chickpeas, shredded rotisserie chicken, or diced tofu. These additions will make it a satisfying meal on its own!
