Crunchy Cabbage and Cucumber Salad with Tangy Mustard Dressing
Introduction
Dive into a refreshing taste experience with our Crunchy Cabbage and Cucumber Salad, enhanced by a zesty mustard dressing. This salad is not just about its vibrant colors; it combines hearty textures and bright flavors, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Packed with crunchy vegetables and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only delicious but also super easy to prepare. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying an explosion of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, heading out for a picnic, or just want a quick side dish, this salad will impress your guests and nourish your body.
How to Make Crunchy Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 1/3 of a whole green cabbage, shredded
- 1/3 of a whole red cabbage, shredded
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 of a medium onion, finely sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or grated
- 20g walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt (divided, plus more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of natural honey
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite mustard
- 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
Directions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly shred both the green and red cabbage into a large salad bowl. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of salt over the green cabbage and gently massage it in to soften the leaves slightly.
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Add More Veggies: Add the thinly sliced cucumber to the bowl. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of salt on the cucumber. Then, slice the onion and toss it into the bowl. Grate or julienne the carrot and mix it in along with the other vegetables.
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Add Nuts: Roughly chop the walnuts and incorporate them into the salad.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, honey, mustard, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or tanginess as needed.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated. Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Serve: Give the salad a final toss, taste, and adjust seasoning with more salt if necessary. Serve this fresh salad as a side dish or add your favorite protein to enjoy it as a main meal. It’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or any dinner table.
How to Serve Crunchy Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, or you can make it a main dish by adding some chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Enjoy it alongside your favorite grilled dishes or as a light accompaniment to rich meals.
How to Store Crunchy Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days. Note that the vegetables may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will still be delightful!
Tips to Make Crunchy Cabbage and Cucumber Salad
- Massage the cabbage with salt to enhance its tenderness without losing its crunch.
- Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste – consider adding lemon juice for extra zest!
- Ensure the salad has a little time to rest before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Variations
- Add Fruits: Toss in some sliced apples or pears for a sweet twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing if you prefer a spicy flavor.
- Grains: Include cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier option.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables ahead of time and add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.
2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad holds up well in the fridge and is a great option for weekly meal prep.
3. Can I use other nuts in this salad?
Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or your favorite nuts for a different flavor and texture!
Enjoy making and sharing this Crunchy Cabbage and Cucumber Salad, packed with nutrition and flavor!