Cucumber & Chinese Cabbage Salad with Yogurt Dressing
A refreshing, crunchy Asian-inspired salad with a creamy, tangy yogurt dressing—perfect for summer or as a light side dish!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salad:
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2 cups Chinese cabbage (Napa cabbage), thinly sliced
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1 large cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
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1 medium carrot, julienned or grated
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¼ cup fresh cilantro or mint leaves, chopped
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2 tbsp roasted peanuts or sesame seeds, for crunch
For the Yogurt Dressing:
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½ cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
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1 tbsp rice vinegar (or lime juice)
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1 tsp honey or maple syrup
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1 tsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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½ tsp sesame oil
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1 small garlic clove, minced
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½ tsp ginger, grated
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Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
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1 red chili, thinly sliced (for heat)
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2 scallions, thinly sliced
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½ cup edamame or crispy wonton strips
Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
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Thinly slice the Chinese cabbage, cucumber, and carrot (use a mandoline for even slices).
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Toss them together in a large bowl with cilantro or mint.
2. Make the Yogurt Dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Assemble the Salad
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Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
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Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
4. Serve
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Garnish with roasted peanuts or sesame seeds and extra herbs.
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Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch, or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Variations
✨ Extra creamy? Add 1 tbsp tahini to the dressing.
✨ More protein? Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
✨ Vegan option? Use coconut yogurt and skip the honey (use agave).
Why You’ll Love It
✔ Light & hydrating—perfect for hot days.
✔ Creamy yet healthy dressing with no mayo.
✔ Ready in 15 minutes—no cooking needed!
Great as a side for grilled meats, with rice, or as a standalone lunch. Crunchy, fresh, and packed with flavor! 😊