Crunchy Green and Purple Cabbage Salad (Easy + Fresh)

5 from 1 vote

Mar 19, 2026

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This crunchy green and purple cabbage salad is fresh, colorful and incredibly satisfying – made with simple ingredients and a light vinaigrette you’ll want to use on everything.

A clear glass bowl with purple, green shredded cabbage, carrots and cucumbers — Cabbage Salad

f you’re looking for a salad that actually feels good to eat – crisp, refreshing, and not boring – this is it.

I’ve been making versions of this cabbage salad for years. It’s simple, affordable, and holds up beautifully in the fridge, which makes it perfect for busy days when you want something ready to go.

It’s one of those recipes you can keep coming back to – and easily adjust depending on what you have.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS SALAD

Easy to customize (add protein or keep it light)
Crunchy and refreshing (not soggy)
Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients
Naturally low-carb + fiber-rich
Holds well for up to 2 days (meal prep friendly)

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Salad

1/2 small head green cabbage, finely sliced
1/2 small head purple cabbage, finely sliced
2 Persian cucumbers, sliced
2 carrots, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing

1/3 to 1/2 cup olive oil (adjust to preference — don’t overdress)
1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

👉 Upgrade tip: Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness

HOW TO MAKE IT

Finely slice both green and purple cabbage (a mandolin works best).

Chopped purple cabbage prepared for salad, adding vibrant color and crunch to a fresh cabbage slaw.

Finely chopped purple cabbage on a wooden cutting board with a knife

Slice cucumbers and grate carrots.
Add everything to a large bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients.

Simple homemade salad dressing with olive oil and vinegar in a glass bowl with fresh parsley

Pour over the salad and toss well.

Pouring olive oil and vinegar dressing over cabbage salad ingredients in a glass bowl

Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Close-up of cabbage salad ingredients with cucumber slices, shredded carrots, green and purple cabbage, and parsley

KEY TIPS

Slice cabbage very thin → this changes the texture completely
Don’t overdress → cabbage releases water
Let it sit briefly → flavors develop quickly
Taste and adjust salt after mixing

Close-up of fresh cabbage salad with green cabbage, purple cabbage, cucumber, and shredded carrots

STORAGE

Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.

👉 It actually tastes better after a few hours once the cabbage softens slightly.

Chopped cabbage salad ingredients in a glass bowl with cucumber, carrots, purple cabbage, green cabbage, and fresh herbs

EASY VARIATIONS (IMPORTANT FOR SEO + VALUE)

Make it a full meal:
Add sunflower seeds or walnuts for crunch
You can add grilled chicken or steak
Cheese like feta cheese or goat cheese would be a nice addition
Add chickpeas or white beans

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead?

Yes – it holds very well for up to 2 days.

Can I use only one type of cabbage?

Yes, but using both adds better texture and color.

Why is my cabbage salad watery?

Too much dressing or not enough salt balance – cabbage naturally releases water, you can always drain the liquid and add more olive oil, salt and vinegar.