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Cooking Wells

Cucumber Slaw Simple and Refreshing Side Dish

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- 2 large cucumbers - 1 cup shredded red cabbage - 1 carrot - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro Cucumbers are the star of this dish. They are crisp and hydrating. I prefer large cucumbers for this slaw. Shredded red cabbage adds a nice crunch and a pop of color. Carrots bring sweetness and bright orange hues. Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and freshness. - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon honey - 1 teaspoon sesame oil For the dressing, rice vinegar adds a tangy taste. Honey balances the vinegar's acidity with sweetness. Sesame oil gives a rich, nutty flavor that ties everything together. - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper to taste Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth. Red pepper flakes bring a gentle heat to the slaw. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors and make each bite better. For the Full Recipe, you can find all the details to create this dish. Enjoy crafting your refreshing cucumber slaw! To start, you will need to slice and peel the cucumbers. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Thin slices give the slaw a nice crunch. Next, shred the cabbage. I find using a box grater or a food processor makes this easy. Lastly, grate the carrot. This adds color and sweetness. Combine these veggies in a large bowl. Toss them gently to mix everything well. Now, let’s whisk together the dressing ingredients. In a smaller bowl, add the rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Then, grate fresh ginger into the bowl. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk until all the ingredients blend together. This dressing will give the slaw a zesty kick that you will love. Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables. Toss everything together so the dressing coats each piece. Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the flavors blend well. The cucumbers will also release some moisture, making the slaw even better. Serve it chilled or at room temperature. This dish is perfect as a side. For the full recipe, check the Zesty Cucumber Slaw section. To make your cucumber slaw even better, try adding fresh herbs. Mint or dill can give it a bright taste. You can also add nuts like peanuts or almonds for a nice crunch. This extra texture makes every bite more fun and satisfying. Let your slaw sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. It also allows the cucumbers to lose some water, which improves texture. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Fresh veggies make the slaw crisp and vibrant. This slaw pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or fish. It adds a cool contrast to hot dishes. You can also serve it as a light lunch. Just add some protein like grilled shrimp or tofu, and you have a tasty meal. {{image_2}} For a rich twist, you can make creamy cucumber slaw. Simply add mayonnaise or yogurt to the mix. Start with about 1/2 cup of mayo or yogurt. This will give the slaw a smooth texture. Mix it in with the dressing before you combine it with the veggies. This version is great for those who love creamy salads. It pairs well with grilled meats and adds a nice touch to picnics. If you like heat, try spicy cucumber slaw. You can add jalapeños or chili paste to kick it up a notch. Start with one finely chopped jalapeño. If you want it even spicier, add a teaspoon of chili paste. Mix these in with the veggies and dressing. This version brings a fun zing to the dish and really wakes up your taste buds. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or taco nights. You can also switch up the dressing for different flavors. Try using balsamic vinegar or lime juice instead of rice vinegar. For balsamic, use the same amount as the rice vinegar. If you choose lime juice, start with the juice of one lime. This adds a fresh and tangy taste to the slaw. Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or mint for extra zest. These alternative dressings keep the dish light and refreshing. For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Cucumber Slaw. To store leftover cucumber slaw, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the slaw fresh. Make sure the container seals well to avoid air exposure. You can also cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it in the fridge to maintain its crunch. Avoid adding dressing to the slaw until you are ready to eat. This prevents sogginess. You can safely keep cucumber slaw in the fridge for about 3 days. After that, the texture may change. If it gets too soft, it might not taste as good. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. If you notice any, it’s best to throw it away. Freezing cucumber slaw is not the best option. Cucumbers contain a lot of water, which makes them mushy when thawed. The texture will not be the same. If you want to save the slaw, consider freezing the dressing instead. You can then mix it with fresh veggies later. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures a crisp texture. To keep your cucumber slaw crispy, start by using fresh cucumbers. Slice them thinly and sprinkle salt on them. This draws out excess moisture. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, and then rinse and drain. This method keeps the cucumbers crunchy. You can also add crunchy veggies like carrots or bell peppers for more texture. Yes, you can make cucumber slaw ahead of time. Prepare the veggies and dressing separately. Mix them just before serving. If you mix too early, the slaw may become soggy. Store the slaw in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar for freshness. Cucumber slaw pairs well with many dishes. Try it with grilled chicken or fish. It also works great with tacos or sandwiches. Use it as a fresh side for barbecues. You can even serve it on top of burgers for a crunch. Cucumber slaw is healthy and low in calories. Each serving has about 60 calories. Cucumbers are mostly water, making them hydrating. They also provide vitamins and minerals. The veggies in the slaw add fiber, which is good for digestion. The dressing is light and uses simple ingredients. You can find the complete Zesty Cucumber Slaw recipe [here](#). Cucumber slaw offers a refreshing crunch with simple ingredients. You learned how to prepare it and enhance its flavor. Try variations like creamy or spicy to keep meals exciting. Proper storage helps maintain freshness, so no waste occurs. Overall, cucumber slaw is a healthy, versatile dish you can enjoy. Don't hesitate to experiment and find your perfect twist!
Save It Jump to Recipe

Ready to add a burst of freshness to your meals? Cucumber slaw is a simple and tasty side dish that you can make in minutes. With just a few crisp veggies and a zesty dressing, this slaw is perfect for brightening up any plate. Whether you serve it with grilled meats or as a light lunch, you won’t want to miss this refreshing recipe. Let’s dive into how to make it!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Cucumber Slaw

– 2 large cucumbers

– 1 cup shredded red cabbage

– 1 carrot

– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro

Cucumbers are the star of this dish. They are crisp and hydrating. I prefer large cucumbers for this slaw. Shredded red cabbage adds a nice crunch and a pop of color. Carrots bring sweetness and bright orange hues. Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and freshness.

Dressing Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the dressing, rice vinegar adds a tangy taste. Honey balances the vinegar’s acidity with sweetness. Sesame oil gives a rich, nutty flavor that ties everything together.

Seasoning and Add-ins

– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth. Red pepper flakes bring a gentle heat to the slaw. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors and make each bite better.

For the Full Recipe, you can find all the details to create this dish. Enjoy crafting your refreshing cucumber slaw!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

To start, you will need to slice and peel the cucumbers. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Thin slices give the slaw a nice crunch. Next, shred the cabbage. I find using a box grater or a food processor makes this easy. Lastly, grate the carrot. This adds color and sweetness. Combine these veggies in a large bowl. Toss them gently to mix everything well.

Making the Dressing

Now, let’s whisk together the dressing ingredients. In a smaller bowl, add the rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Then, grate fresh ginger into the bowl. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk until all the ingredients blend together. This dressing will give the slaw a zesty kick that you will love.

Combining and Serving the Slaw

Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables. Toss everything together so the dressing coats each piece. Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the flavors blend well. The cucumbers will also release some moisture, making the slaw even better. Serve it chilled or at room temperature. This dish is perfect as a side. For the full recipe, check the Zesty Cucumber Slaw section.

Tips & Tricks

Flavor Enhancements

To make your cucumber slaw even better, try adding fresh herbs. Mint or dill can give it a bright taste. You can also add nuts like peanuts or almonds for a nice crunch. This extra texture makes every bite more fun and satisfying.

Perfecting Texture

Let your slaw sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. It also allows the cucumbers to lose some water, which improves texture. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Fresh veggies make the slaw crisp and vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

This slaw pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or fish. It adds a cool contrast to hot dishes. You can also serve it as a light lunch. Just add some protein like grilled shrimp or tofu, and you have a tasty meal.

Variations

Creamy Cucumber Slaw

For a rich twist, you can make creamy cucumber slaw. Simply add mayonnaise or yogurt to the mix. Start with about 1/2 cup of mayo or yogurt. This will give the slaw a smooth texture. Mix it in with the dressing before you combine it with the veggies. This version is great for those who love creamy salads. It pairs well with grilled meats and adds a nice touch to picnics.

Spicy Cucumber Slaw

If you like heat, try spicy cucumber slaw. You can add jalapeños or chili paste to kick it up a notch. Start with one finely chopped jalapeño. If you want it even spicier, add a teaspoon of chili paste. Mix these in with the veggies and dressing. This version brings a fun zing to the dish and really wakes up your taste buds. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or taco nights.

Alternative Dressings

You can also switch up the dressing for different flavors. Try using balsamic vinegar or lime juice instead of rice vinegar. For balsamic, use the same amount as the rice vinegar. If you choose lime juice, start with the juice of one lime. This adds a fresh and tangy taste to the slaw. Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or mint for extra zest. These alternative dressings keep the dish light and refreshing.

For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Cucumber Slaw.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftover cucumber slaw, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the slaw fresh. Make sure the container seals well to avoid air exposure. You can also cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it in the fridge to maintain its crunch. Avoid adding dressing to the slaw until you are ready to eat. This prevents sogginess.

Storage Duration

You can safely keep cucumber slaw in the fridge for about 3 days. After that, the texture may change. If it gets too soft, it might not taste as good. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. If you notice any, it’s best to throw it away.

Freezing Cucumber Slaw

Freezing cucumber slaw is not the best option. Cucumbers contain a lot of water, which makes them mushy when thawed. The texture will not be the same. If you want to save the slaw, consider freezing the dressing instead. You can then mix it with fresh veggies later. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures a crisp texture.

FAQs

How do I make cucumber slaw crispy?

To keep your cucumber slaw crispy, start by using fresh cucumbers. Slice them thinly and sprinkle salt on them. This draws out excess moisture. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, and then rinse and drain. This method keeps the cucumbers crunchy. You can also add crunchy veggies like carrots or bell peppers for more texture.

Can I make cucumber slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make cucumber slaw ahead of time. Prepare the veggies and dressing separately. Mix them just before serving. If you mix too early, the slaw may become soggy. Store the slaw in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar for freshness.

What can I serve with cucumber slaw?

Cucumber slaw pairs well with many dishes. Try it with grilled chicken or fish. It also works great with tacos or sandwiches. Use it as a fresh side for barbecues. You can even serve it on top of burgers for a crunch.

Is cucumber slaw healthy?

Cucumber slaw is healthy and low in calories. Each serving has about 60 calories. Cucumbers are mostly water, making them hydrating. They also provide vitamins and minerals. The veggies in the slaw add fiber, which is good for digestion. The dressing is light and uses simple ingredients.

Full Recipe

You can find the complete Zesty Cucumber Slaw recipe [here](#).

Cucumber slaw offers a refreshing crunch with simple ingredients. You learned how to prepare it and enhance its flavor. Try variations like creamy or spicy to keep meals exciting. Proper storage helps maintain freshness, so no waste occurs. Overall, cucumber slaw is a healthy, versatile dish you can enjoy. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your perfect twist!

- 2 large cucumbers - 1 cup shredded red cabbage - 1 carrot - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro Cucumbers are the star of this dish. They are crisp and hydrating. I prefer large cucumbers for this slaw. Shredded red cabbage adds a nice crunch and a pop of color. Carrots bring sweetness and bright orange hues. Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and freshness. - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon honey - 1 teaspoon sesame oil For the dressing, rice vinegar adds a tangy taste. Honey balances the vinegar's acidity with sweetness. Sesame oil gives a rich, nutty flavor that ties everything together. - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper to taste Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth. Red pepper flakes bring a gentle heat to the slaw. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors and make each bite better. For the Full Recipe, you can find all the details to create this dish. Enjoy crafting your refreshing cucumber slaw! To start, you will need to slice and peel the cucumbers. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Thin slices give the slaw a nice crunch. Next, shred the cabbage. I find using a box grater or a food processor makes this easy. Lastly, grate the carrot. This adds color and sweetness. Combine these veggies in a large bowl. Toss them gently to mix everything well. Now, let’s whisk together the dressing ingredients. In a smaller bowl, add the rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Then, grate fresh ginger into the bowl. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk until all the ingredients blend together. This dressing will give the slaw a zesty kick that you will love. Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables. Toss everything together so the dressing coats each piece. Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the flavors blend well. The cucumbers will also release some moisture, making the slaw even better. Serve it chilled or at room temperature. This dish is perfect as a side. For the full recipe, check the Zesty Cucumber Slaw section. To make your cucumber slaw even better, try adding fresh herbs. Mint or dill can give it a bright taste. You can also add nuts like peanuts or almonds for a nice crunch. This extra texture makes every bite more fun and satisfying. Let your slaw sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. It also allows the cucumbers to lose some water, which improves texture. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Fresh veggies make the slaw crisp and vibrant. This slaw pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or fish. It adds a cool contrast to hot dishes. You can also serve it as a light lunch. Just add some protein like grilled shrimp or tofu, and you have a tasty meal. {{image_2}} For a rich twist, you can make creamy cucumber slaw. Simply add mayonnaise or yogurt to the mix. Start with about 1/2 cup of mayo or yogurt. This will give the slaw a smooth texture. Mix it in with the dressing before you combine it with the veggies. This version is great for those who love creamy salads. It pairs well with grilled meats and adds a nice touch to picnics. If you like heat, try spicy cucumber slaw. You can add jalapeños or chili paste to kick it up a notch. Start with one finely chopped jalapeño. If you want it even spicier, add a teaspoon of chili paste. Mix these in with the veggies and dressing. This version brings a fun zing to the dish and really wakes up your taste buds. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or taco nights. You can also switch up the dressing for different flavors. Try using balsamic vinegar or lime juice instead of rice vinegar. For balsamic, use the same amount as the rice vinegar. If you choose lime juice, start with the juice of one lime. This adds a fresh and tangy taste to the slaw. Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or mint for extra zest. These alternative dressings keep the dish light and refreshing. For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Cucumber Slaw. To store leftover cucumber slaw, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the slaw fresh. Make sure the container seals well to avoid air exposure. You can also cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it in the fridge to maintain its crunch. Avoid adding dressing to the slaw until you are ready to eat. This prevents sogginess. You can safely keep cucumber slaw in the fridge for about 3 days. After that, the texture may change. If it gets too soft, it might not taste as good. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. If you notice any, it’s best to throw it away. Freezing cucumber slaw is not the best option. Cucumbers contain a lot of water, which makes them mushy when thawed. The texture will not be the same. If you want to save the slaw, consider freezing the dressing instead. You can then mix it with fresh veggies later. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures a crisp texture. To keep your cucumber slaw crispy, start by using fresh cucumbers. Slice them thinly and sprinkle salt on them. This draws out excess moisture. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, and then rinse and drain. This method keeps the cucumbers crunchy. You can also add crunchy veggies like carrots or bell peppers for more texture. Yes, you can make cucumber slaw ahead of time. Prepare the veggies and dressing separately. Mix them just before serving. If you mix too early, the slaw may become soggy. Store the slaw in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar for freshness. Cucumber slaw pairs well with many dishes. Try it with grilled chicken or fish. It also works great with tacos or sandwiches. Use it as a fresh side for barbecues. You can even serve it on top of burgers for a crunch. Cucumber slaw is healthy and low in calories. Each serving has about 60 calories. Cucumbers are mostly water, making them hydrating. They also provide vitamins and minerals. The veggies in the slaw add fiber, which is good for digestion. The dressing is light and uses simple ingredients. You can find the complete Zesty Cucumber Slaw recipe [here](#). Cucumber slaw offers a refreshing crunch with simple ingredients. You learned how to prepare it and enhance its flavor. Try variations like creamy or spicy to keep meals exciting. Proper storage helps maintain freshness, so no waste occurs. Overall, cucumber slaw is a healthy, versatile dish you can enjoy. Don't hesitate to experiment and find your perfect twist!

Cucumber Slaw

Discover the ultimate refreshing side with this zesty cucumber slaw recipe! It's packed with vibrant colors from cucumbers, red cabbage, and carrots, all tossed in a delightful dressing of rice vinegar, honey, and ginger. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a light side dish, this slaw is easy to make and full of flavor. Click through for the full recipe and impress your guests with this crunchy, zesty delight!
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Ingredients
  

2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced

1 cup shredded red cabbage

1 carrot, grated

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, shredded red cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped cilantro. Toss to mix the vegetables evenly.

    In a smaller bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until well combined.

      Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all the vegetables are coated with the dressing.

        Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This also allows the cucumbers to release some of their moisture, enhancing the texture.

          Serve the slaw chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side salad.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

              - Presentation Tips: Serve in a large glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch.

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