Easy Crunchy Cabbage Salad Recipe

Introduction

This easy crunchy cabbage salad is a vibrant, refreshing side dish perfect for any meal. With a mix of shredded green and purple cabbage, carrots, and a tangy homemade dressing, it offers a delightful crunch and balanced flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 2 medium carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced red onion in a large bowl.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, celery seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined to make the dressing.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
4. Step 4: Toss all ingredients thoroughly until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Step 5: Let the salad rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the cabbage to absorb the flavors.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts before serving.
• Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar if you prefer different sweeteners.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, but the cabbage may soften slightly. Give it a quick toss before serving, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the salad a few hours in advance enhances the flavor as the cabbage absorbs the dressing. Just be aware it may lose some crunch if stored for too long.

Can I use other types of cabbage?

Absolutely. You can substitute with Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for a different texture and flavor, though green and purple cabbage provide the best crunch and color contrast.

Easy Crunchy Cabbage Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 129 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Easy Crunchy Cabbage Salad featuring a colorful mix of green and purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing with a hint of sweetness. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, this salad offers a delightful crisp texture and balanced flavors with minimal prep time.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 2 medium carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion

Dressing

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced red onion in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of all veggies.
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, celery seeds, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
3. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
4. Toss to Coat: Thoroughly toss all the ingredients so that the cabbage and other vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing, distributing flavors uniformly.
5. Rest for Flavor: Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the cabbage to soften slightly and absorb the dressing flavors fully.

Notes

• Allowing the salad to rest enhances the flavor and tenderizes the cabbage for better texture.
• You can substitute honey with maple syrup to keep the salad vegan-friendly.
• This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days; toss again before serving.
• Adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add extra freshness.
• For a more substantial meal, add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and protein.

Keywords: cabbage salad, crunchy salad, easy salad recipe, healthy side dish, no-cook salad, apple cider vinegar dressing