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Cucumber-Cabbage Salad with Tamarind Dressing

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant cucumber and cabbage salad with tamarind dressing is a refreshing vegetarian dish that celebrates bright flavours and satisfying textures. The combination of crisp cabbage and cool cucumber matchsticks provides a wonderful crunch, while the mung bean sprouts and fresh coriander add a light, herbaceous lift. It is a versatile side dish that pairs exceptionally well with spiced grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a standalone healthy lunch.

The standout feature of this recipe is the creamy yet tangy dressing, which uses tamarind concentrate and fresh ginger to create a deep, savoury profile. Balanced with honey and toasted cumin seeds, the dressing coats the vegetables beautifully without masking their natural freshness. This simple, nutritious salad is gluten-free and can be assembled in minutes, making it an ideal choice for quick midweek meals or summer gatherings.

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Ingredients for Cucumber-Cabbage Salad with Tamarind Dressing

  • 240ml plus 2 tablespoons plain yoghurt

  • 90ml fresh lemon juice

  • 90ml honey

  • 90ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 60ml tamarind concentrate

  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped peeled fresh ginger

  • 3 tablespoons cumin seeds

  • 3 1/2 cups sliced cabbage

  • 3 Persian cucumbers, cut into matchstick-size strips (about 3 cups)

  • 3 cups mung bean sprouts

  • 1 cup fresh coriander leaves

  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced spring onions

How to make Cucumber-Cabbage Salad with Tamarind Dressing

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Mix first 7 ingredients in small bowl. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.

Place cabbage and all remaining ingredients in large bowl. Add dressing; toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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