Ah, Cabbage Cucumber Salad! Let me tell you, this dish holds a special place in my heart. There’s something about the crunchiness of the cabbage paired with the cool crispness of the cucumber that just screams summer. I remember the first time I tried a variant of this salad at a family picnic; my Aunt Martha made her version, and it was gone in a flash! Everyone was raving about it—which, of course, inspired me to create my own take on it.
This salad is a delightful no-fuss side dish that brightens up any meal. Plus, it’s super versatile! Whether you’re enjoying a solo dinner or entertaining a gathering, this salad is always a hit. It’s fresh, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet, especially when you let it chill for a bit. So, let’s dive into this refreshing recipe!
What’s in Cabbage Cucumber Salad?
Green Cabbage: This is the star of the show! Cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, plus it adds a delightful crunch. I recommend using fresh cabbage for the best texture.
Cucumber: The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and keeps the salad light. I often use English cucumbers because they tend to be sweeter and have fewer seeds—definitely a win in the flavor department!
Green Onions: These little green beauties add a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Fresh Parsley or Dill: This is optional, but let me tell you, it elevates the salad! I love to use fresh dill when I have it, but parsley works just as nicely if that’s what you have on hand.
Apple Cider Vinegar: The tangy kick from apple cider vinegar is what brings all the flavors together—trust me, it’s a must-have ingredient!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil rounds out the dressing and adds richness without making the salad heavy.
Sugar: This is optional, depending on your personal taste. It balances out the acidity of the vinegar beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings are key to making each bite pop!
Is Cabbage Cucumber Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad delivers a generous amount of nutrients without piling on the calories. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:
Cabbage: Low in calories and packed with vitamins, cabbage is also high in fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling full.
Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories, cucumbers bring a lot of water, making them a hydrating snack. They’re also high in vitamin K, which is essential for bone health.
Green Onions: These little green wonders provide a punch of flavor with minimal calories. Plus, they have antioxidants that promote overall health.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat, olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean diets and is linked to numerous health benefits.
Just keep in mind, if you have any dietary issues such as a sensitivity to vinegar, you may want to adjust the ingredients to suit your needs!
Ingredients
– 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
– 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional for garnish)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
(Note: This recipe serves about 4, depending on portion sizes.)
How to Make Cabbage Cucumber Salad?
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and sliced cucumber. Seriously, the colors are just beautiful together!
2. Add the chopped green onions and fresh herbs, if using. Don’t skip this step; it makes a difference!
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing is where the magic happens!
4. Pour that delicious dressing over the cabbage and cucumber mixture.
5. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Don’t forget to get a taste – you want to be sure it’s just right!
6. Let the salad sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and serve chilled. I love it after it’s had some time to chill—trust me, you’re going to savor every bite!
Serving Suggestions & Variations: Salad Magic!
Now, here’s where you can let your creativity shine! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or shredded carrots for a pop of color and flavor. You could also throw in some cherry tomatoes if you’re feeling adventurous. And if you’re looking for protein, shredded chicken or chickpeas can easily turn this salad into a heartier meal.
Serving this salad alongside grilled meats, burgers, or even as part of a picnic spread is a great way to enjoy it. And remember, it also works wonderfully as a meal prep option—just store it in the fridge for a few days and enjoy it whenever you need a fresh crunch!
Oh, I can’t wait for you to try this. It’s a simple yet delightful dish that I know you and your loved ones will cherish just as I do. So get chopping, mix it up, and enjoy the crunchiness of this fabulous Cabbage Cucumber Salad! If you try it, I’d love to hear what you think!
