Healthy Green Goddess Cabbage Salad

This Healthy Green Goddess Cabbage Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish perfect as a light meal or side. Featuring crunchy green cabbage, baby cucumbers, spinach, and fresh herbs, it’s tossed in a zesty, creamy Green Goddess dressing made with wholesome ingredients. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, this salad is a fresh and flavorful addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with fresh, crunchy vegetables and herbs.
• Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and full of nutrients.
• Tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing that’s easy to make.
• Perfect as a light meal, side dish, or meal prep salad.
• Customizable with your favorite greens or add-ins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 3 baby cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chives, finely chopped
• 1 cup soft herbs (e.g., parsley, basil, cilantro, or dill)

For the Green Goddess Dressing:

• 1 shallot, roughly chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 cup walnuts

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

1. Shred the Cabbage: Thinly slice the green cabbage and transfer it to a large salad bowl.
2. Add the Veggies: Add the sliced baby cucumbers, spinach, green onions, chives, and soft herbs to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.

Step 2: Make the Green Goddess Dressing

3. Blend the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the shallot, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, rice wine vinegar, nutritional yeast, sea salt, and walnuts. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

4. Dress the Salad: Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the salad and toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
5. Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Garnish with additional chives or herbs, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time (Optional): 10–15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Top with roasted chickpeas, grilled tofu, or tempeh for a heartier meal.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit entirely for a nut-free version.
• Extra Crunch: Add shredded carrots, sliced radishes, or toasted seeds.
• Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha in the dressing.
• Cheesy Flavor: Sprinkle vegan Parmesan on top for an extra savory touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss together just before serving.
• Freezing: The dressing can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and whisk before using.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the vegetables and dressing separately and toss them together just before serving.

2. What herbs work best for this recipe?

Parsley, basil, cilantro, and dill are excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorites.

3. Is there a substitute for nutritional yeast?

If not vegan, you can use grated Parmesan cheese. Otherwise, try ground sunflower seeds for a similar texture and nutty flavor.

4. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Yes, red cabbage works well and adds a pop of color to the salad.

5. What can I use instead of walnuts?

Almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds are great alternatives.

6. Can I make the dressing oil-free?

Yes, replace the olive oil with water or unsweetened plant-based yogurt for a lighter dressing.

7. How do I keep the salad crisp?

Keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables.

8. Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s a great meal prep option. Store the vegetables and dressing separately, and assemble when ready to eat.

9. Can I use bottled Green Goddess dressing instead?

Sure! While homemade dressing is fresher, bottled Green Goddess dressing can be a convenient option.

10. What pairs well with this salad?

Serve it alongside grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a protein like tofu, tempeh, or fish for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Healthy Green Goddess Cabbage Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side. With fresh, crunchy vegetables and a zesty homemade dressing, it’s a refreshing option that’s both vegan and gluten-free. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, satisfying burst of flavor!

Healthy Green Goddess Cabbage Salad

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad, Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Healthy, Vegan
• Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

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Description

Fresh, crunchy, and vibrant, this Healthy Green Goddess Cabbage Salad is packed with wholesome vegetables, tender spinach, and a creamy, zesty dressing made from herbs and walnuts. This vegan and gluten-free salad is perfect as a side dish or light, satisfying meal.

 

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Produce:

• 1 small head green cabbage (shredded)
• 3 baby cucumbers (sliced)
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 bunch green onions (chopped)
• 1 shallot (minced)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup fresh chives
• 1 cup fresh soft herbs (such as parsley, basil, or cilantro)
• Juice of 2 lemons

Baking & Spices:

• 1/3 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tsp sea salt

Oils & Vinegars:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar

Nuts & Seeds:

• 1/4 cup walnuts

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Instructions

Prepare the Salad:

1. Shred and Chop:
   • Shred the green cabbage and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced cucumbers, spinach, and green onions.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a blender or food processor, combine the walnuts, nutritional yeast, garlic cloves, shallot, chives, soft herbs, lemon juice, olive oil, rice wine vinegar, and sea salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Chill (Optional):
   • Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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Serve and Garnish:

5. Plate and Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately, garnished with extra chives, herbs, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast if desired.

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Notes

• For extra crunch, top with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
• Swap walnuts with cashews or almonds for a different flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.