Cabbage salad is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that brings together the crispness of fresh cabbage with the vibrant flavors of various vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing. This healthy salad is packed with nutrients, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal on its own. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a refreshing summer dish, or a nutritious accompaniment to your main course, this cabbage salad is sure to please. The combination of crunch, tang, and mild sweetness makes it an all-time favorite for health-conscious individuals and food lovers alike.
Ingredients
• ½ head green cabbage, finely shredded
• ¼ head red cabbage, finely shredded (optional, for color)
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
• ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup toasted sunflower seeds or chopped almonds (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
• Prepare the cabbage by shredding it finely using a knife or a food processor. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
• Grate the carrot and add it to the bowl along with the finely chopped red and green bell peppers.
• Thinly slice the red onion and mix it with the other vegetables.
• Chop the fresh parsley and cilantro, then sprinkle them into the salad for added freshness.
• If using sunflower seeds or almonds, lightly toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a couple of minutes until fragrant. Let them cool and then add them to the salad for an extra crunch.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red chili flakes until well combined.
• Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything together thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
• Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps soften the cabbage slightly while keeping it crunchy.
• Give it a final toss before serving and enjoy your fresh and vibrant cabbage salad.
This cabbage salad is highly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different add-ins like nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or even protein like grilled chicken or tofu. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos and wraps. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious salad as part of a balanced diet!