Easy Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that combines crisp green cabbage, crunchy cucumbers, and vibrant herbs. This salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a light side dish at any meal. The combination of sunflower oil and vinegar gives it a tangy flavor that complements the fresh vegetables beautifully. With its simplicity and delightful crunch, this salad may just become your go-to favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This salad takes only about 15 minutes to whip up, making it an easy choice for busy days.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The mix of fresh cabbage, cucumbers, and herbs creates a vibrant taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for potlucks or barbecues, this Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad pairs well with many main dishes.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from the veggies, this salad is a great addition to any diet.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients, it’s an inexpensive way to enjoy a tasty side dish.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly during preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mandolin slicer
- Sharp knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cup
Importance of Each Tool
- Mandolin slicer: Ensures uniform slices of cabbage and cucumbers quickly and safely.
- Sharp knife: Useful for chopping herbs and slicing vegetables if you prefer not to use a mandolin.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all ingredients together without spilling.
- Measuring cup: Helps in accurately measuring out liquids for the dressing.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 medium green cabbage (2 lbs – shredded)
- 3 medium cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber)
- 4-5 green onions
- 1 bunch fresh dill (about 2 tablespoons chopped)
For the Dressing
- 6 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 4 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fine salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small measuring cup, combine and stir sunflower oil, distilled white vinegar, fine salt, and ground black pepper. Set aside to let the salt dissolve.
Step 2: Wash the Vegetables
Thoroughly wash all vegetables under running water. Pat them dry using paper towels.
Step 3: Slice the Cabbage
Discard any soft outer leaves of the cabbage. Use a mandolin slicer or sharp knife to thinly slice the cabbage. Remove the core. Transfer shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Slice the Cucumbers
Halve the cucumbers and thinly slice them. Using a mandolin slicer can make this quick and efficient.
Step 5: Chop Herbs
Finely chop green onions and fresh dill. Add them to the mixing bowl with cabbage and cucumbers.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Drizzle the prepared salad dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 7: Serve or Refrigerate
Serve immediately or refrigerate for a couple of hours to allow the cabbage to soften slightly before serving. The salad will remain fresh in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.
How to Serve Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, a picnic, or just enjoying a family dinner, this salad fits perfectly into any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
As a Refreshing Side Dish
- Pair with Grilled Meats: This salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken, beef, or pork.
- Ideal for Tacos: Use it as a crunchy topping for tacos or burritos for added texture and flavor.
In a Wrap
- Wrap it Up: Stuff the salad into a whole-wheat wrap with some hummus or grilled vegetables for a quick lunch.
- Cabbage Rolls: Use large cabbage leaves to wrap the salad for an easy-to-eat finger food option.
As a Light Lunch
- Serve Alone: Enjoy the salad on its own for a light and refreshing lunch option.
- Add Protein: Top with chickpeas, beans, or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it more filling.
How to Perfect Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
To ensure your Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh green cabbage and cucumbers for the best flavor and crunch.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This enhances the flavors and softens the cabbage slightly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for varied flavors.
- Add Texture: Consider adding nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or walnuts, for an extra crunch.
- Make Ahead of Time: Prepare this salad up to two days in advance. It stays fresh and delicious in the fridge.
Best Side Dishes for Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
This Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad pairs well with numerous side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful options to consider.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the crispness of the salad beautifully.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad balances out the freshness of the cabbage cucumber mix.
- Coleslaw: A classic coleslaw adds another layer of crunch and flavor while keeping with similar ingredients.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and earthy tones that contrast well with this fresh salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf can serve as a wholesome base alongside your salad.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or meat create an eye-catching plate paired with this salad.
- Hummus and Pita Chips: For a lighter touch, serve hummus with pita chips as a dipping option alongside your meal.
Enjoy these serving ideas and side dishes as you savor your Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
Not washing vegetables properly: Always wash your vegetables thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. This ensures a fresh taste and safe eating experience.
Using too much dressing: Overdressing the salad can make it soggy. Start with less dressing and add more as needed to achieve your desired flavor.
Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs like dill elevate the flavor of your salad. Don’t skip them; they add a burst of freshness that is essential for this dish.
Ignoring salt and pepper: Seasoning is key! Taste your salad before serving and adjust salt and pepper accordingly to enhance flavors.
Serving immediately after preparation: Allowing the salad to rest for a couple of hours in the fridge helps the cabbage soften slightly and enhances the flavor as it absorbs the dressing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep salad undressed if you plan on storing leftovers to maintain crunchiness.
Freezing Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
- Fresh ingredients, like cucumbers, do not freeze well and will become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Oven: Not recommended for this salad as it is best enjoyed cold.
- Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; this salad is served fresh.
- Stovetop: Again, not suitable; enjoy it chilled instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad healthy?
This salad is low in calories and high in vitamins. The fresh vegetables provide essential nutrients while keeping it light and refreshing.
How long does Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad can last for up to 3 days. If dressed, consume within 1-2 days for the best quality.
Can I customize my Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, nuts for crunch, or even fruits like apples for sweetness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! The Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is completely vegan-friendly and makes a perfect addition to any plant-based meal.
What occasions are ideal for serving this salad?
This versatile salad is great for potlucks, barbecues, picnics, or holiday gatherings. It pairs well with many dishes!
Final Thoughts
The Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it truly your own! Give it a try – you might just find your new go-to salad!
Easy Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
Experience the refreshing crunch of our Easy Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad, a delightful blend of crisp green cabbage, crunchy cucumbers, and fresh herbs. This vibrant salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual barbecues to festive potlucks. With a tangy dressing made from sunflower oil and vinegar, every bite is bursting with flavor. Not only is it quick to prepare—taking just about 15 minutes—but it’s also a healthy, budget-friendly option that fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
- Total Time: 53 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage (2 lbs, shredded)
- 3 medium cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber)
- 4–5 green onions
- 1 bunch fresh dill (about 2 tablespoons chopped)
- 6 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 4 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a small measuring cup, whisk together sunflower oil, distilled white vinegar, salt, and pepper; set aside.
- Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly.
- Shred the cabbage using a mandolin slicer or sharp knife; place in a large mixing bowl.
- Slice cucumbers thinly and add to the bowl.
- Chop green onions and dill; mix them into the salad.
- Drizzle dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss well until coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: N/A
- Cuisine: N/A
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Chill the salad to enhance flavors before serving. Feel free to customize with other herbs or nuts for added texture.