Easy Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together crisp green cabbage, crunchy cucumbers, and fragrant herbs. This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect side for potlucks, parties, or summer barbecues. With its zingy dressing made from sunflower oil and vinegar, this Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad might just become your go-to recipe for any occasion.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Salad Base
- For the Dressing
- How to Make Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Step 1: Prepare Your Dressing
- Step 2: Wash Your Vegetables
- Step 3: Slice the Cabbage
- Step 4: Slice the Cucumbers
- Step 5: Chop Herbs
- Step 6: Combine Ingredients
- Step 7: Serve or Chill
- How to Serve Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- As a Standalone Dish
- With Grilled Meats
- At Potlucks and Gatherings
- How to Perfect Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Best Side Dishes for Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Reheating Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I customize my Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad?
- How long does the Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad stay fresh?
- What should I serve with my Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad?
- Is this Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it a hassle-free option for busy days.
- Fresh Ingredients: Loaded with fresh vegetables and herbs, it’s a healthy choice that adds color to any meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this salad on its own or as a side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or wraps.
- Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients that won’t break the bank, this salad is perfect for every budget.
- Make Ahead: It tastes even better after marinating in the fridge for a couple of hours!
Tools and Preparation
To make your Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad, having the right tools will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mandolin slicer
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cup
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Mandolin slicer: This tool allows you to achieve perfectly thin slices of cabbage and cucumbers quickly and safely.
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for mixing all your ingredients without spilling, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
Ingredients
Easy Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is loaded with fresh green cabbage, crisp cucumbers and fresh herbs. It’s the perfect side dish for potlucks, parties and barbecue. Made with sunflower oil and vinegar, inexpensive and may just become your new favorite side dish.
For the Salad Base
- 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)

How to Make Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Prepare Your Dressing
In a small measuring cup, combine and stir together:
1. 6 tablespoons sunflower oil
2. 4 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
3. 1 teaspoon fine salt
4. 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Set aside to let the salt dissolve while you prepare the vegetables.
Step 2: Wash Your Vegetables
Rinse all vegetables thoroughly under cold water. Use a paper towel to pat them dry.
Step 3: Slice the Cabbage
Discard any soft outer leaves of the cabbage. Using a mandolin slicer or sharp knife:
1. Thinly slice the cabbage into fine strips.
2. Transfer shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Slice the Cucumbers
Halve the cucumbers lengthwise:
1. Thinly slice each half using your mandolin slicer or knife for quick results.
Step 5: Chop Herbs
Finely chop:
– Green onions
– Fresh dill
Add these to your large mixing bowl with cabbage.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl:
1. Toss everything well to combine until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 7: Serve or Chill
Serve immediately or refrigerate for a couple of hours to allow flavors to meld. This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days!
How to Serve Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
This refreshing Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a casual dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
As a Standalone Dish
- Light Lunch: Serve the salad as a light lunch option. It’s healthy and filling on its own.
- Picnic Delight: Pack it for a picnic. It holds up well and is a great addition to outdoor meals.
With Grilled Meats
- Grilled Chicken: Pair the salad with grilled chicken for a balanced meal that complements each other’s flavors.
- Barbecue Ribs: The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of barbecue ribs, making it an excellent side.
At Potlucks and Gatherings
- Potluck Favorite: Bring this salad to potlucks. Its vibrant colors and crunch will attract attention!
- Buffet Style: Add it to a buffet spread. It serves well alongside various dishes.
How to Perfect Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
To ensure your Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad reaches its full potential, consider these tips for perfecting your dish.
- Bold Freshness: Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding other herbs like parsley or cilantro for varied flavor profiles.
- Add Protein: For a heartier salad, toss in some chickpeas or edamame.
- Use Quality Oil: Choose high-quality sunflower oil for a richer taste in your dressing.

Best Side Dishes for Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
This Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some options that complement its fresh flavors nicely.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful contrast to the salad’s crunch.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes bring warmth and heartiness to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A classic pairing, coleslaw offers another texture while enhancing cabbage flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread rounds out the meal perfectly with its buttery flavor.
- Stuffed Peppers: These provide a hearty complement, making your meal more filling.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich option that adds nutrition while being light on the palate.
- Pasta Salad: A creamy pasta salad can balance the freshness of the cabbage cucumber mix beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad can provide a refreshing finish after savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best recipes can go wrong if you make common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making your Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad.
- Skipping the washing step: Always wash your vegetables thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides. This ensures a clean and flavorful salad.
- Over-dressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for flavor without overwhelming the ingredients.
- Not letting the salad sit: Allowing the Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad to rest helps the flavors meld together. Refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving for optimal taste.
- Ignoring freshness: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Wilted cabbage or soft cucumbers will diminish the quality of your salad.
- Cutting vegetables unevenly: Uniformly sliced vegetables not only look better but also provide a balanced texture. Use a mandolin slicer or sharp knife for even cuts.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- The Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad can last up to 2-3 days in the fridge.
- Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor contamination.
Freezing Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as both cucumber and cabbage lose their crispness when thawed.
- If you must freeze, consider freezing only the dressing separately.
Reheating Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Oven: Not recommended, as this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
- Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; it will wilt the vegetables and change textures.
- Stovetop: Not applicable; serve fresh directly from the fridge for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize my Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Nuts or seeds can add crunch, while different herbs like parsley or cilantro can enhance flavor.
How long does the Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad stay fresh?
The salad remains fresh in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first day after preparation for maximum crispness.
What should I serve with my Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a potluck spread. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!
Is this Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s an excellent choice for meal prep since it holds up well in storage and provides a healthy side option throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. Its combination of crunch and brightness makes it perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or simply as a side dish during dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions! Try making this delicious salad today; you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!
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Easy Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings together the crispness of green cabbage and cucumbers with fragrant fresh herbs. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a vibrant side to any meal, this salad is both delicious and incredibly easy to prepare. With a zingy dressing made from sunflower oil and vinegar, it not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a colorful touch to your table. Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside grilled meats and sandwiches, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
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
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together sunflower oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Rinse vegetables under cold water and pat dry.
- Shred cabbage using a mandolin slicer or knife and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Halve cucumbers lengthwise and thinly slice each half.
- Chop green onions and dill; add to the bowl with cabbage.
- Pour dressing over the mixture and toss until well combined.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least an hour for flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg