There’s something truly refreshing about a crisp, colorful salad, especially one as vibrant as the Everyday Cabbage Salad. Utilizing two kinds of cabbage, green and red, this dish is not just visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful and nutritious. As the name suggests, this salad is perfect for any day of the week, whether it’s for a casual lunch or a side dish at dinner. The delightful combination of shredded cabbages, carrots, and fresh parsley offers a satisfying crunch with every bite. What ties it all together is the light, tangy dressing made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, creating a perfect balance that heightens the natural sweet and savory flavors of the vegetables.
This salad doesn’t just stop at being tasty; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition. Packed with fiber and essential vitamins, it’s the perfect companion to help you stay energized and healthy. The versatility of this Everyday Cabbage Salad means you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add nuts or seeds for extra texture or even toss in your favorite protein for a more filling meal. What makes it even better? You can prepare it ahead of time! Letting the ingredients marinate lets the flavors deepen, offering an even more delectable taste with every serving.
Why You’ll Love This Everyday Cabbage Salad
- Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it perfect for any day, even your busiest ones.
- Nutritious Boost: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber to support your health.
- Customizable: Adapt the recipe with a variety of veggies, nuts, or proteins.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and enjoy deeper flavors.
- Versatile Serving: Pairs well with a range of meals — lunch or dinner.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparing this Everyday Cabbage Salad is a breeze but setting up your kitchen right can make the process even smoother. First, ensure your workspace is clean and spacious enough for shredding the cabbages and carrots. A large bowl is essential for mixing the ingredients thoroughly. Invest in a good quality chef’s knife or a mandoline slicer to achieve the perfect shred for the cabbage and a smooth julienne of the carrots. A sturdy whisk will be your best friend when preparing the dressing, ensuring all the ingredients meld into a harmonious blend.
Ingredients
- 1/2 head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 head of red cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, julienned or grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables
Start by placing the shredded green and red cabbage, along with the julienned or grated carrots, into a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped fresh parsley. This creates the base of your salad, bringing together a blend of colors and flavors.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk the ingredients vigorously until they are well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference, ensuring the dressing has a balanced flavor that complements the crisp salad base.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the bowl of vegetables. Use salad tongs or two large spoons to mix and toss the salad until each piece of vegetable is lightly coated with the dressing. This step ensures the dressing infuses each bite with its light and tangy essence.
Step 4: Marinate
Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes. This sitting time lets the flavors deepen and meld, enhancing the overall taste when served.
Variations
- Protein: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
- Vegetables: Include bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
- Spices: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can add a bit of heat.
Cooking Notes
- Dress Sparingly: Start with less dressing. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
- Chill Out: Though optional, a bit of chilling time in the fridge can further enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled meat or seafood for a balanced meal.
- Perfect as a topping for tacos or sandwiches for extra crunch.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can shred the cabbage and carrots up to a day in advance.
- Storage: Store covered in the fridge; if you plan to keep it longer, keep dressing separate.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150 per serving
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
What is the best way to store leftover cabbage salad?
Store your leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, keeping the dressing separate if possible to maintain its crispiness.
Can I add fruit to this salad?
Absolutely! Fruits like apples or pears would add a delightful sweetness and extra crunch.
How long will this salad last in the fridge?
If stored properly, the salad can last up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I use bottled dressing instead of making my own?
Yes, although homemade dressing enhances the flavor, a bottled option can be used for convenience.
Conclusion
The Everyday Cabbage Salad offers everything you could want in a salad — it’s simple to prepare, satisfying to eat, and full of health-boosting benefits. Its delightful crunch and flavorful dressings make it a must-try for salad lovers looking to add more vegetables to their diet. Whether you’re a cabbage aficionado or trying it for the first time, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any unique variations you’ve tried in the comments below. Enjoy serving it alongside your favorite meals or experimenting with ingredients to make it your own!
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Everyday Cabbage Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A refreshing and colorful salad with a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 head of red cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, julienned or grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by placing the shredded green and red cabbage, along with the julienned or grated carrots, into a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped fresh parsley.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk the ingredients until well incorporated.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the bowl of vegetables. Use salad tongs or two large spoons to mix and toss until each vegetable is lightly coated with the dressing.
- Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to deepen and meld.
Notes
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 2 g