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.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: This salad can be served either chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. It makes a perfect side dish for any meal, adding a refreshing and crunchy element.

Garnish: For an extra touch, you can garnish the salad with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.

Variations & Tips

Add Protein: To make this salad more substantial, add some protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. This transforms it into a complete meal.

Different Greens: Feel free to mix in other greens like spinach, arugula, or kale. These add different textures and flavors, enhancing the salad’s complexity.

Additional Veggies: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or radishes for more color and variety.

Dairy Option: For a creamy touch, sprinkle some feta cheese or goat cheese crumbles on top of the salad.

Vegan Alternative: If you want to keep the salad vegan, ensure that the honey is replaced with agave syrup or maple syrup.

Nuts and Seeds: For added crunch and nutritional benefits, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.

Conclusion

This Cabbage, Cucumber, and Pea Salad is appealing for several reasons. It’s incredibly refreshing, making it perfect for warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying. The combination of textures—from the crisp cabbage to the tender peas—provides a delightful eating experience. The dressing, with its balance of tangy lemon juice, sweet honey, and rich olive oil, ties everything together beautifully.

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a great dish for family meals or gatherings. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this wonderful recipe, and let it bring a burst of flavor to your table!