This light and refreshing salad combines crunchy cabbage, crisp apple, and a tangy-sweet dressing. Packed with fresh flavors and vibrant textures, it’s perfect as a healthy side or a quick main dish.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 400 g (1 lb) cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 green apple, thinly sliced
- 4 green onions, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Shred the cabbage finely using a knife or mandoline slicer.
- Grate the carrot and slice the cucumber and green apple into thin slices.
- Chop the green onions finely.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, mustard, and a pinch of salt until emulsified.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, cucumber, green apple, and green onions.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat.
- Add salt to taste and mix again to ensure even seasoning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Dish: Serve as a light main course with a side of whole-grain bread or crackers.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or any protein of choice for a balanced meal.
- Picnic: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish at barbecues.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh, firm vegetables for the best crunch and flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or mustard to suit your taste.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage: Rich in vitamins K and C, and provides dietary fiber.
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene, supporting eye health and immunity.
- Apple: Adds natural sweetness and is a great source of antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian and gluten-free
- Can be made vegan by substituting honey with maple syrup
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings):
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- For best results, add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
- Light, tangy, and refreshing with a perfect balance of flavors.
- Versatile as a side dish or a main course.
- A healthy and satisfying way to include more vegetables in your diet.
Conclusion
This Crunchy Cabbage and Apple Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of vibrant vegetables, crisp apple, and tangy-sweet dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad in advance? Yes, prepare the vegetables in advance, but add the dressing just before serving for the best crunch.
- What other vegetables can I use? Add shredded lettuce, spinach, or thinly sliced bell peppers for variety.
- Can I make this salad vegan? Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a vegan version.
- What type of cabbage works best? Green cabbage is great, but red cabbage or Napa cabbage can also be used.
- Can I use a different fruit? Yes, pears or oranges work well as substitutes for apple.
- How do I keep the apples from browning? Toss the apple slices in lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
- Can I add protein? Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa make great additions for a more filling salad.
- What nuts or seeds work best? Walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch.
- Can I omit the mustard? Yes, but mustard adds a nice tang to the dressing. Adjust with more lemon juice or vinegar.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Enjoy this fresh and flavorful salad as a healthy addition to any meal!