This Cucumber and Chinese Cabbage Salad with Yogurt Dressing is a delightful and nutritious option for a refreshing meal. Its combination of fresh vegetables and a creamy yogurt dressing makes it both satisfying and healthy. Enjoy this salad for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a tasty side dish!
Preparation Time:
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Total: 15 minutes (plus optional chilling time)
Ingredients:
- Chinese cabbage, shredded
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- Salt, to taste
- 1 sweet red pepper, sliced
- Olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 spoonful sugar
- Green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons thick yogurt
- 1 teaspoon dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Directions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Salt Cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumber in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water, which helps enhance the cucumber’s crispness.
- Drain Cucumbers: After 10 minutes, squeeze the cucumbers gently to remove the excess liquid and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
- Cook Onion and Pepper:
- Heat Oil: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and fry for about 3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Red Pepper: Add the sliced sweet red pepper to the skillet and continue frying for an additional 4 minutes until the peppers are tender. Allow them to cool slightly before adding them to the cucumbers.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- Mix Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the thick yogurt, chopped dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, mustard seeds, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and sugar. Mix well to create a creamy dressing.
- Combine the Salad:
- Mix Vegetables: To the bowl with cucumbers and cooked onions and peppers, add the shredded Chinese cabbage and chopped green onions.
- Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until well mixed. Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve:
- Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt or vinegar depending on your taste preferences.
- Chill (Optional): Serve the salad immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Course: Serve as a light main course for a healthy lunch or dinner.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Party Salad: Great as a refreshing side dish for picnics or potlucks.
Cooking Tips:
- Enhance Crispness: Salting the cucumbers and letting them sit helps draw out moisture and keeps them crisp.
- Even Coating: Mix the salad well to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Customizable: Add other vegetables like shredded carrots or radishes for extra crunch.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Vitamins: Loaded with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
- Low-Calorie: Low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for weight management.
- Probiotic Benefits: Yogurt dressing adds beneficial probiotics for gut health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free if all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be eaten chilled if stored.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare and perfect for a quick meal.
- Delicious Flavor: A creamy, tangy dressing complements the crisp vegetables beautifully.
Conclusion:
This Cucumber and Chinese Cabbage Salad with Yogurt Dressing is a delightful and nutritious option for a refreshing meal. Its combination of fresh vegetables and a creamy yogurt dressing makes it both satisfying and healthy. Enjoy this salad for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a tasty side dish!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use regular cabbage instead of Chinese cabbage?
- Yes, regular cabbage can be used as a substitute.
- What can I use instead of thick yogurt?
- Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as alternatives.
- Can I add protein to this salad?
- Yes, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added for extra protein.
- How do I make this salad spicier?
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the dressing.
- Can I prepare this salad in advance?
- Yes, it can be prepared a day ahead; just add the dressing before serving.
- What other vegetables can I include?
- Bell peppers, radishes, or cucumbers would be great additions.
- Is there a dairy-free option for the dressing?
- Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a vegan option.
- How can I make this salad more filling?
- Add quinoa or nuts for added texture and satiety.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
- Yes, fresh herbs can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
- How long will the salad keep in the refrigerator?
- It will keep well for up to 2 days in an airtight container.