The best crunchy cabbage and cucumber salad with peanuts and a bright, flavorful dressing.
When winter drags on and you miss the fresh tastes of summer, a crisp, vibrant salad can rescue your meals. I love warm soups and hearty chilis, but sometimes I need a break—something light, fresh, and satisfying. That’s how this cabbage and cucumber salad was born.
It’s crunchy, full of nutrients, quick to prepare, and pairs beautifully with any protein.
A note on kitchen tools:
For the cucumbers you’ll want either a mandoline set to a julienne cut or a spiralizer. If using a mandoline, cut the cucumber into shorter sections and slide them lengthwise to get thin, even strips—this takes just minutes. If you don’t have those tools, you can slice the cucumbers thinly by hand, though the texture will differ slightly.
Shred the cabbage with a large knife or pulse it in a food processor. Cabbage is forgiving and fast to prep, so the whole head comes together quickly.
The dressing is straightforward but full of flavor—bright lime, savory coconut aminos, a touch of honey, garlic, and ginger. Tossed with crunchy salted peanuts, it creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
This salad stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it convenient for meal prep or easy leftovers. Serve it alongside salmon, tofu, chicken, or any protein you prefer.
If you like broiled salmon, try brushing with avocado oil and seasoning with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne, then broil on high until it reaches your desired doneness. It’s simple and pairs perfectly with this salad.
If you make this, please leave a star rating and a comment—feedback is always appreciated. Happy weekend friends!
Simple Cabbage Cucumber Salad
- Author: Mia Zarlengo
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Sides
Description
Simple cabbage and cucumber salad with crunchy peanuts, dressed in a tangy, savory lime dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, finely chopped or shredded
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly julienne sliced on a mandoline or spiralized
- 1/2 cup peanuts, dry roasted and salted
For the dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lime juice
- 1 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp grated or finely minced fresh ginger
- 3/4 tsp sea salt
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Optional: 2 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Whisk all dressing ingredients together in a small bowl and set aside.
- Cut each cucumber into thirds and run each section lengthwise through a mandoline set to a julienne cut or use a spiralizer.
- In a large bowl, toss the cabbage, cucumber, and peanuts. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve with your favorite protein and enjoy.