All Recipes
EXTRA Crispy Cucumber and Chinese Cabbage Salad with Yogurt Dressing
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!