Bright, crunchy, and bursting with freshness, this Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe is the kind of dish you’ll crave week after week—especially when the sun’s out and you want something quick yet satisfying. The blend of crisp white and vibrant red cabbage, cool cucumber, and lively green onions all work in perfect harmony under a simple sunflower oil and vinegar dressing. This recipe is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create a salad that’s a total showstopper on any table.

Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings a unique crunch, flavor, or punch of color, and they come together to create something that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.

White cabbage: Forms the hearty base of the salad with its natural sweetness and satisfying crunch.
Red or purple cabbage: Adds earthy flavor and a gorgeous pop of vibrant color for visual (and flavor) excitement.
English cucumber or small cucumbers: Lends cool, juicy freshness; opt for English cucumber for fewer seeds and tender skin.
Green onions: Offers mild, savory bite and a subtle hint of sharpness, tying everything together.
Sunflower oil: Neutral in flavor, it allows the veggies to shine while adding a silky finish.
Vinegar: Brings tanginess and brightness to the whole salad; use your preferred kind for a personal touch.
Salt: Essential for drawing out flavors and balancing the tang of the vinegar.

How to Make Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by giving all your vegetables a good rinse—freshness is key here! Using a mandoline (for superfine slices) or just a trusty, sharp knife, thinly shred both the white and red cabbage. Don’t be afraid to show off those knife skills; the thinner the ribbons, the crisper the bite. Toss all the shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl, setting the stage for a salad that promises every mouthful is packed with crunch.

Step 2: Add the Cucumber and Green Onions

Next, focus on the cucumbers. If you’re using an English cucumber, peel it and slice into fine julienne strips for a refreshing crunch that won’t overpower. If you’ve gone for the smaller cucumbers, slice them into skinny strips—they’re naturally delicate and won’t need peeling. Dice your green onions nice and fine, then scatter both veggies into the bowl with your cabbage. Their flavors and textures will play so well together.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, add the sunflower oil, vinegar, and salt. Grab a fork and whisk it all together; you’ll want the mixture to become slightly milky and homogeneous, showing that everything is well blended. This simple dressing is what lets the vibrancy of your veggies take center stage, so don’t overcomplicate it!

Step 4: Toss the Salad

Pour that luscious, tangy dressing over your bowl of vegetables and grab your biggest salad tongs (or clean hands). Toss everything thoroughly, making sure each piece of cabbage and cucumber gets coated. If you taste a bit and want a little more zing or salt, now’s the time to adjust. This Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe should taste balanced, fresh, and just the right amount of savory.

Step 5: Serve

Letting the salad rest for just a few minutes is the secret finishing touch—it allows those bold flavors to meld and intensify. Spoon the salad into your favorite serving dish and get ready to enjoy a wave of freshness in every bite!

How to Serve Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe

Garnishes

While this salad shines with its simplicity, a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or even a handful of fresh dill or parsley can really elevate each serving. Garnishes add color, texture, and a touch of elegance, transforming each bowlful into something dinner-party-worthy.

Side Dishes

The Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted salmon, or even next to a sandwich or burger for a bit of crunch and contrast. It also works beautifully alongside heartier meals like stews or casseroles, providing a refreshing, acidic counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the salad in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase all those vibrant colors, or build individual salad cups in clear glasses for an impressive appetizer. For picnics or potlucks, pack it into jars so the pretty layers show through—this Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe is guaranteed to capture everyone’s attention.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra salad, just pop it into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay crisp for up to 2 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so it’s a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeks or easy lunches.

Freezing

Unfortunately, freezing isn’t recommended for the Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe. Both cabbages and cucumbers will lose their signature crunch and become watery when thawed, so enjoy this salad fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

No reheating needed here! This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If it’s been refrigerated, just give it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil for the dressing?

Absolutely! While sunflower oil is traditional and keeps the flavor neutral, you can experiment with olive oil, grapeseed oil, or any light-tasting oil. Each will lend a unique note to your Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe.

What type of vinegar works best?

White wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or distilled white vinegar all taste great in this salad. If you want a softer tang, rice vinegar is wonderful. Adjust to your own taste and preferences!

Can I add other vegetables or proteins?

Definitely. Radishes, bell peppers, or shredded carrots add even more crunch and color. Or toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas to make the Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe into a heartier meal.

How can I make it less salty or tangy?

If you’re sensitive to salt or acidity, start with less salt and vinegar than the recipe calls for. You can always add more after tasting, but you can’t take it away once it’s in the mix.

Is this salad suitable for special diets?

Yes—this salad is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free. It’s a fabulous fit for a huge range of diets, and you can modify the dressing to suit low-sodium or other needs.

Final Thoughts

Next time you’re looking for something fresh, quick, and guaranteed to brighten any meal, give the Cabbage and Cucumber Salad Recipe a try. I can’t wait for you to taste just how vibrant and satisfying this humble, colorful dish can be!