Looking for a salad that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and crunch? This cabbage salad is your answer! Made with fresh cabbage and a zesty dressing, it’s the perfect side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
What I love about this salad is its versatility. You can add in various ingredients like carrots, bell peppers, or even nuts to customize it to your taste. The balance of flavors from the tangy dressing and the crisp veggies creates a deliciously refreshing dish that will brighten up any table.
The Colorful Ingredients
This salad bursts with a spectrum of colors and textures that are visually appealing and inviting. Shredded green cabbage forms the base of the dish, offering a crisp and slightly peppery flavor that complements other ingredients.
Bright orange carrots add a sweet crunch, while thinly sliced red bell peppers contribute a mild, sweet taste and vibrant color. Together, these elements create a striking presentation that makes it hard to resist.
Health Benefits of Cabbage
Cabbage is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This leafy vegetable is low in calories yet high in vitamins C and K, making it an exceptional addition to any diet. It’s also rich in fiber, which supports digestive health.
Incorporating cabbage into your meals can contribute to overall well-being, helping to maintain a healthy weight and providing antioxidants that fight inflammation. This salad is a tasty way to enjoy the benefits of cabbage while satisfying your taste buds.
Making the Perfect Vinaigrette
The light vinaigrette dressing elevates the salad, tying all the flavors together. A combination of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard creates a balance of tangy and sweet notes that enhance the fresh vegetables.
Whisking these ingredients until well combined results in a dressing that’s both light and flavorful. It’s essential to allow the salad to sit for a while after adding the dressing, as this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This crunchy cabbage salad is versatile and can serve as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a wholesome meal, or enjoy it on its own for a quick lunch.
Consider serving it alongside other dishes for a more extensive spread. This salad can complement a barbecue, picnic, or any casual gathering perfectly. Its bright colors will also brighten up any table setting.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing this salad properly will help maintain its freshness. Keep the salad and dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This prevents the cabbage from wilting and keeps the crunch intact.
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salad can last for a couple of days. Just give it a quick toss before serving to reintroduce the dressing and flavors.
Final Touches
The addition of freshly chopped parsley as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces another layer of flavor to the salad. Its herbaceous notes complement the other ingredients beautifully.
For those looking to personalize the recipe even further, adding nuts or seeds can provide extra crunch and healthy fats. The simplicity of this salad makes it easy to adapt and enjoy in various ways!
The Ultimate Cabbage Salad
This crunchy cabbage salad features fresh shredded cabbage, vibrant carrots, and a zesty vinaigrette that gives it a delightful kick. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red bell pepper, green onions, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Toss again before serving and enjoy this refreshing salad as a side or a light meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 14g