Name: Zesty Cucumber Cabbage Salad for a Refreshing Summer Side
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs green cabbage (shredded); 3/4 medium English cucumber (cut into triangle slices); 4 pieces green onions (sliced); 1/4 cup sunflower oil (or olive oil/avocado oil); 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 1 teaspoon salt (preferably sea salt); 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped, or parsley if unavailable); 2 teaspoons sugar (or honey/sugar substitute); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cloves garlic (minced or crushed)

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After a long week of takeout and convenient meals, I found myself craving something fresh and vibrant. That’s when I turned my attention to the most delightful Cucumber Cabbage Salad, a dish that perfectly balances crunch and flavor. The first time I tossed together this mix of crisp cucumbers and shredded cabbage, drizzled with a zesty garlic vinaigrette, I was astonished by how rejuvenating it felt.

This salad is not just about flavor; it’s a celebration of simplicity, taking only 20 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a potluck, or just looking for a healthy side dish to pair with tonight’s dinner, this salad fits the bill beautifully. Its lightness and refreshing taste are reminiscent of sunny Eastern European gatherings, making it a timeless favorite. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to explore variations that suit your taste. Let’s dive in and create a bowlful of goodness that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Why is Cucumber Cabbage Salad a Must-Try?

Freshness at its finest: This Cucumber Cabbage Salad bursts with vibrant flavors and textures that invigorate any meal. Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Health-conscious: With approximately 76 calories per serving, indulge guilt-free. Versatile delight: Customize with additional veggies or a creamy twist! Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a BBQ or potluck, its lightness will charm guests. Elevate your meal with this bright, delightful salad to experience a refreshing taste of summer!

Cucumber Cabbage Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Cabbage – Provides structure and crunch; use green cabbage for the best texture.
• English Cucumber – Adds freshness and juiciness; can be substituted with Persian cucumbers.
• Green Onions – Offers a mild onion flavor that complements the salad; red onion can be used for a stronger taste.

For the Garlic Vinaigrette
• Sunflower Oil – Acts as the base for the vinaigrette, providing a light flavor; alternatives include olive oil or avocado oil.
• White Distilled Vinegar – Gives the salad its tangy taste; substitute with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
• Salt – Enhances all flavors; opt for sea salt for a more nuanced taste.
• Fresh Dill – Introduces a fresh, herbaceous note; parsley can be used as a substitute if unavailable.
• Sugar – Balances the acidity of the vinegar; honey or a sugar substitute could be healthier options.
• Black Pepper – Adds spice and depth to the salad.
• Garlic – Provides the key aromatic flavor; fresh minced or crushed garlic is recommended for the best taste.

Creating a Cucumber Cabbage Salad is a delightful way to elevate your meals with this healthy and refreshing dish!

How to Make Cucumber Cabbage Salad

Prepare Ingredients: Begin by shredding 1.5 lbs of green cabbage using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Next, trim and cut 3/4 of an English cucumber into delightful triangle slices, and slice up 4 green onions for an added flavor boost.
Combine Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix together the shredded cabbage, cucumber slices, and green onions. Take a moment to enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh aromas!
Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of sunflower oil, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill, 2 teaspoons of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 4 minced garlic cloves. This dressing is where the magic happens!
Mix Salad and Dressing: Pour the tangy dressing over your salad mixture and toss it all together until the cabbage and cucumber are beautifully coated. Give it a gentle toss to preserve that lovely crunch!
Serve: Serve your Cucumber Cabbage Salad immediately for maximum freshness, or refrigerate it for about 2 hours to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Optional: Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Cucumber Cabbage Salad

Fridge: Store your Cucumber Cabbage Salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day to retain freshness.

Dressing Storage: For optimal flavor and crunch, keep the garlic vinaigrette separate until serving; it can be refrigerated in a small jar for up to a week.

Serving Recommendation: When ready to serve, mix in the dressing just before eating to keep the vegetables crisp and vibrant.

Make-Ahead Option: If you plan to prepare this salad ahead of time, consider prepping the vegetables a few hours in advance, but wait to add the dressing until right before serving.

Cucumber Cabbage Salad Variations

Looking to add a personal touch to your salad? Experiment with these delightful twists for an even more exciting dish!

Creamy Twist: Replace half the oil with mayonnaise or sour cream for a rich, creamy salad. It transforms the texture completely, offering a luscious mouthfeel that’s uniquely satisfying.
Colorful Carrots: Add grated carrots to the mix for a burst of color and a hint of sweetness. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide extra crunch!
Peppery Punch: Incorporate thinly sliced bell peppers for an added layer of flavor. Use a mix of colors for a vibrant salad that impresses the eyes and the palate.
Avocado Addition: Dice up creamy avocados to introduce richness that blends beautifully with the vinaigrette. Each bite becomes a smooth delight, elevating the overall taste.
Heat Seekers: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can spice things up. This simple addition transforms the salad into a zesty adventure for those who love a kick!
Seasonal Fruits: Toss in some diced apples or pears for a surprising sweetness. This fruity twist will bring a refreshing contrast that dances on your tastebuds.
Herb Infusion: Mix in other herbs like cilantro or parsley alongside the dill to play with flavors. Each herb brings its unique character to the salad, creating a personalized touch.
Nutty Crunch: Top off your salad with toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts for an added crunch and nutrition boost. The nuts provide a satisfying contrast to the soft veggies, rounding out the dish beautifully.

What to Serve with Cucumber Cabbage Salad?

Elevate your culinary experience with delightful pairings that complement the refreshing bright notes of this salad.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, perfectly seasoned grilled chicken adds heartiness to your meal, balancing the salad’s light crunch beautifully.
Steak: A perfectly grilled steak brings rich flavor and protein, making a satisfying contrast to the crisp flavors of the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Their warm, earthy essence is a delightful counterpoint to the cool and tangy notes of your salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: Light and protein-packed, quinoa pilaf provides a wholesome touch that meshes harmoniously with the Cucumber Cabbage Salad.
Hummus and Pita: Wholesome and creamy, hummus offers a satisfying dip that pairs wonderfully with the salad, making for a delightful appetizer.

When you sit down to enjoy your meal, remember that each bite of the Cucumber Cabbage Salad enhances the experience of whatever it’s served with, creating a symphony of flavors!

Expert Tips for Cucumber Cabbage Salad

Mix Well: Ensure the dressing is mixed thoroughly before adding it to the salad to evenly distribute flavors.
Crunch Factor: Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the salad’s crunchiness—especially important if preparing in advance.
Experiment with Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to add colorful variations; grated carrots or bell peppers can elevate the Cucumber Cabbage Salad even further.
Choose Quality Garlic: Using fresh minced garlic will enhance the overall taste of your salad. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best flavor!
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your salad before serving; you can adjust the seasoning with salt or vinegar as needed for flavor balance.

Make Ahead Options

These Cucumber Cabbage Salad make-ahead options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the salad’s base—shredded cabbage, sliced cucumbers, and green onions—up to 24 hours in advance by storing them together in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep everything fresh and crunchy, I recommend keeping the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve. Just whisk together the dressing ingredients right before you toss it with the salad. This way, your Cucumber Cabbage Salad will taste just as delightful and vibrant as if it were freshly prepared, offering a refreshing and healthy side dish for any meal!

Cucumber Cabbage Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best texture and crunch, I recommend using green cabbage. It’s sturdy and holds up well against the dressing. However, if you prefer something milder, you could opt for Napa cabbage, which is softer and has a slightly sweeter taste.

How should I store leftovers?
For maximum freshness, store any leftover Cucumber Cabbage Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1 day as the cabbage can start to wilt. Keeping the dressing separate until serving will help the veggies retain their crunch!

Can I freeze Cucumber Cabbage Salad?
Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the high water content in the cucumbers. They become mushy upon thawing. If you decide to prepare ingredients ahead, consider chopping the cabbage and cucumbers, and then storing them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving.

What should I do if the salad turns out too sour?
If ever your Cucumber Cabbage Salad is too tangy, don’t worry! You can balance it by adding a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey to the salad. Alternatively, a touch more salt can also help round out those strong flavors. Just remember to mix well and taste as you go!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, this salad is vegetarian and gluten-free. Just be cautious with the dressing ingredients, as some may include allergens. For a nut-free option, ensure your oil choice is safe. Also, it’s best to keep it out of reach of pets as garlic can be harmful to them.

How do I keep the salad crunchy when making it ahead of time?
If you’re planning to prepare your Cucumber Cabbage Salad ahead, I recommend prepping your veggies a few hours in advance and storing them in the fridge. To maintain that delightful crunch, keep the garlic vinaigrette in a separate jar and mix it in just before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully without compromising texture!