Creamy Cucumber & Cabbage Salad 

📝 Description

This creamy cucumber cabbage salad is a refreshing, crunchy, and nutrient-dense dish perfect for summer meals, BBQ side dishes, healthy meal prep, and low-carb diets. Packed with fresh cucumbers, shredded cabbage, carrots, and herbs, this salad combines crisp texture with a light creamy dressing.

It’s ideal for:

  • Healthy weight loss meal plans

  • Keto-friendly side dishes

  • Gluten-free and low-calorie diets

  • Quick lunch ideas

  • Clean eating recipes

This salad takes less than 20 minutes to prepare and can be served as a side dish, light dinner, or meal prep option.


🛒 Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups thinly sliced cucumbers (English or Persian)

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage

  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots

  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (or parsley)

  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced cooked chicken or turkey (optional for protein boost)

For the Creamy Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for healthier option)

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional for richer flavor)


👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  • Wash all vegetables thoroughly.

  • Thinly slice cucumbers using a sharp knife or mandoline for even cuts.

  • Shred cabbage finely.

  • Grate carrots.

  • Slice onions and chop fresh herbs.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a mixing bowl:

  • Combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  • Whisk until smooth and creamy.

  • Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

  • In a large salad bowl, mix cucumbers, cabbage, carrots, onions, and herbs.

  • Add protein (chicken or turkey) if desired.

  • Pour dressing over the salad.

  • Toss thoroughly to coat evenly.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

  • Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.

  • Serve chilled.


🥗 Nutrition & Health Benefits

This salad is:

  • Low in carbohydrates

  • High in fiber

  • Rich in antioxidants

  • Supports digestive health

  • Hydrating due to cucumber content

  • Ideal for weight management

Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces calories and increases protein, making it perfect for high-protein meal plans.


🔥 Variations & Add-Ons

  • Add sunflower seeds or almonds for crunch.

  • Mix in feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

  • Add avocado for healthy fats.

  • Make it vegan by using plant-based mayo.

  • Add grilled shrimp for a high-protein low-carb dinner.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions (High CPM Food Queries)

1. Is cucumber cabbage salad good for weight loss?

Yes! This healthy low-calorie salad is high in fiber and water content, helping you feel full longer while supporting fat loss and clean eating goals.

2. Can I make this salad keto-friendly?

Absolutely. Use full-fat mayonnaise and skip carrots for a stricter keto diet. It’s a perfect keto side dish for grilled meats.

3. How long does creamy cucumber salad last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 2–3 days in an airtight container. However, cucumbers may release water over time.

4. Can I use yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a popular healthy substitute. It lowers calories and adds protein, ideal for fitness meal prep plans.

5. What protein goes best with this salad?

Grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or turkey work perfectly. It also pairs well with steak or BBQ ribs.

6. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as all dressing ingredients are certified gluten-free.

7. Can I meal prep this salad?

Yes, but store dressing separately for best texture if prepping more than one day in advance.


🥒 Serving Suggestions

This creamy cucumber cabbage salad pairs well with:

  • Grilled chicken breast

  • Baked salmon

  • BBQ ribs

  • Keto burgers (no bun)

  • Mediterranean grilled meats

It’s also great for:

  • Summer potlucks

  • Picnic recipes

  • Holiday side dishes

  • Family dinners


💡 Pro Tips for Best Results

  • Salt cucumbers lightly and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess water.

  • Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.

  • Chill before serving to enhance flavor.

  • Add fresh herbs right before serving for vibrant taste.

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