EXTRA Crispy Cucumber and Chinese Cabbage Salad with Yogurt Dressing

This refreshing Cucumber and Chinese Cabbage Salad with Yogurt Dressing is a perfect balance of crisp vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s simple, healthy, and ideal for a light meal or side dish.

Ingredients:

• Chinese cabbage, shredded
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• Salt, to taste
• 1 sweet red pepper, sliced
• Olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon 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

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Salt the cucumbers: Place sliced cucumber in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to extract excess water for enhanced crispness.
• Drain cucumbers: Squeeze gently to remove liquid and transfer to a mixing bowl.

2. Cook Onion and Pepper:

• Heat oil: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
• Add red pepper: Stir in the sliced sweet red pepper and cook for another 4 minutes until tender. Let it cool slightly before adding to the cucumbers.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

• In a separate bowl, mix thick yogurt, dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, mustard seeds, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and sugar. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy dressing.

4. Combine the Salad:

• Mix vegetables: Add the shredded Chinese cabbage and chopped green onions to the bowl with cucumbers, onions, and peppers.
• Add dressing: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.

5. Serve:

• Taste and adjust: Adjust seasoning with salt or vinegar as needed.
• Chill (optional): For enhanced flavor, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Main Course: Ideal as a light, healthy lunch or dinner.
• Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.
• Party Salad: A great addition to picnics, potlucks, or BBQs.

Cooking Tips:

• Enhance crispness: Salting the cucumbers before mixing keeps them crunchy.
• Even coating: Toss the salad well to ensure each ingredient is evenly dressed.
• Customizable: Add shredded carrots or radishes for extra crunch.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Rich in Vitamins: Full of fresh vegetables packed with vitamins and minerals.
• Low in Calories: High in fiber and low in calories, making it perfect for weight management.
• Probiotic Benefits: The yogurt dressing adds beneficial probiotics for gut health.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, provided all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Best enjoyed fresh: Though it can be served chilled, it’s best consumed fresh.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy days when you need a fast, delicious meal.
• Delicious Flavor: The creamy yogurt dressing perfectly complements the crisp vegetables.

Conclusion:

This Cucumber and Chinese Cabbage Salad with Yogurt Dressing is an excellent choice for a healthy, flavorful meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a side for your next gathering, this dish delivers freshness and nutrition in every bite. Enjoy!