Cabbage, Cucumber, & Pea Salad

When it comes to creating a salad that’s both refreshing and packed with nutrients, this Cabbage, Cucumber, and Pea Salad stands out as a top contender. The crispness of the cabbage, the coolness of the cucumber, and the sweet burst of peas combine harmoniously, creating a dish that is as delicious as it is beautiful. This salad is perfect for warm weather, offering a light yet satisfying option that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes.

I first discovered this salad during a family picnic, where it was served as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats. Its simplicity and vibrant flavors immediately caught my attention, and I knew it was a recipe I had to recreate at home. Over time, I’ve tweaked and perfected it, adding a touch of honey for sweetness and apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick. Now, it’s a staple in our household, especially during the summer months when we crave something light and fresh.

INGREDIENTS:

3 cups shredded green cabbage

1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced

1 cup fresh or frozen green peas, thawed

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup

Salt and black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

Shred the Cabbage: Start by shredding 3 cups of green cabbage. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for this. Place the shredded cabbage into a large salad bowl.

Slice the Cucumber: Take 1 medium cucumber and thinly slice it. Add the cucumber slices to the bowl with the cabbage.

Add the Peas: If you’re using frozen peas, make sure they are thawed. Add 1 cup of fresh or thawed green peas to the salad bowl.

Slice the Onion: Thinly slice 1/4 cup of red onion and add it to the bowl. Red onion adds a nice color contrast and a mild, tangy flavor.

Chop the Parsley: Chop 1/4 cup of fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the salad. Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of honey or agave syrup.

Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk the dressing until all the ingredients are well combined and the honey is fully dissolved.

Step 3: Dress and Toss

Pour the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Make sure to distribute it evenly to coat all the vegetables.

Toss the Salad: Gently toss the salad using salad tongs or two large spoons. Ensure that the dressing is evenly mixed throughout the salad, coating all the vegetables.

Step 4: Let It Marinate

Allow the Flavors to Meld: Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly …