This Fresh Cabbage Salad is a delicious and healthy option for anyone looking to lose weight quickly without sacrificing flavor. Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is light, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or on its own, this salad will keep you feeling full and energized, making it an excellent addition to any weight loss plan.
Preparation Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 300g (3 cups) young cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (200g, 1 cup), thinly sliced
- 1 carrot (70g, 1/2 cup), grated
- 50g (1/4 cup) green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
Thinly slice the cabbage and place it in a large bowl. Grate the carrot and add it to the bowl. Thinly slice the bell pepper and finely chop the green onions, then add them to the vegetable mixture. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk until the dressing is well mixed. - Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until well combined. - Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy this juicy, crispy, and refreshing salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a light lunch on its own for a low-calorie meal.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
- Add tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost to make it a heartier meal.
- Pair with whole grain bread for a balanced meal.
- Serve as a crunchy topping for tacos or wraps.
Cooking Tips
- Massage the cabbage with a bit of salt before adding the other ingredients to soften it.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the dressing for a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy lemon.
- Use red cabbage for a colorful twist and additional antioxidants.
- Customize with herbs: Add chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped chilies to the salad for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage: High in vitamins C and K, fiber, and low in calories, which helps with digestion and supports immunity.
- Carrot: Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, promoting eye health and boosting the immune system.
- Bell Pepper: Full of vitamins A and C, plus fiber, which supports skin health and digestion.
- Green Onions: A great source of vitamin K, which helps with bone health and blood clotting.
- Sunflower Oil: Provides healthy fats and vitamin E, which supports heart and skin health.
Dietary Information
- Vegan
- Gluten-Free
- Low-Calorie
- Dairy-Free
- Nut-Free
Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Vitamin A: 4,500 IU
- Vitamin C: 60mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 0.6mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Best Enjoyed Fresh: The salad is best when eaten fresh, but can still be enjoyed for up to 2 days after preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal effort.
- Low-Calorie and Nutritious: Perfect for those looking to lose weight without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or proteins to make it your own.
- Vibrant and Fresh: The combination of fresh vegetables and lemon dressing makes it light and refreshing.
- Great for Meal Prep: Easy to prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the week.
Conclusion
This Fresh Cabbage Salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious, making it an excellent option for weight loss and healthy eating. With its crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing, it’s a vibrant, flavorful dish that you can enjoy any time of the day. Whether you serve it as a side or a main dish, this salad will leave you feeling full and refreshed. Try it today, and share it with friends for an extra boost of healthy inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use another type of oil?
Yes, olive oil or avocado oil would be great substitutes for sunflower oil. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add cucumbers, radishes, or even red cabbage for extra crunch and nutrition. - Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately, then toss them together before serving to keep the salad fresh. - Is this salad suitable for weight loss?
Yes, it’s low in calories and packed with fiber, which helps keep you full and supports healthy digestion, making it ideal for weight loss. - Can I use lemon zest for more flavor?
Definitely! Adding lemon zest to the dressing will enhance the citrusy flavor and add extra brightness to the salad.