Cucumber Salad for Lunch or Dinner (Belly-Fat Friendly!)
This refreshing cucumber salad is light, crunchy, and full of satisfying flavor — perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner when you’re trying to eat lighter and support belly-fat loss. It’s packed with fiber-rich vegetables like cabbage and cucumber, which help keep you full without adding many calories. The dressing uses healthy fats from olive oil, while apple cider vinegar or lemon juice adds brightness and supports digestion. You can enjoy this salad on its own, or pair it with lean protein like grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Salad:
2 cups shredded cabbage (green or Napa)
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 green onions, chopped
2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
Dressing:
2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Start by preparing the vegetables. Finely shred the cabbage and place it in a large mixing bowl. Thinly slice the cucumber — you can keep the peel on for extra fiber and nutrients. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips and chop the green onions. Add everything into the bowl together. If you enjoy fresh herbs, sprinkle in chopped dill or parsley for a fresh Mediterranean touch.
Next, make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with olive oil until smooth. Add the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed — you can add more vinegar or lemon juice for extra tang.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Let the salad rest for about 10–15 minutes before serving if possible. This allows the flavors to blend and the cabbage to soften slightly, making the salad even more delicious.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, especially if you use cabbage as the base. If you prefer a very crisp salad, add the dressing just before serving.
Why this salad supports belly-fat loss
This salad is low in calories but high in nutrients and fiber, helping you stay full longer. The combination of vegetables aids digestion and reduces bloating. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayo lowers calories further while increasing protein. Olive oil provides healthy fats that support metabolism without spiking blood sugar.
Pairing this salad with water, herbal tea, or a lean protein source makes it a balanced, weight-friendly meal.
Optional Add-Ins
Grilled chicken or shrimp
Avocado slices
Pumpkin or sunflower seeds
A sprinkle of feta cheese
Enjoy this refreshing, slimming, and nourishing salad anytime you want something light yet satisfying 💚