This Refreshing Cabbage and Apple Salad is a crunchy, vibrant dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or a healthy snack. The combination of crisp vegetables, sweet apple, and tangy lemon ginger dressing makes this salad incredibly fresh and flavorful. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for any time of the year.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (including resting time)
Servings: 3-4
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cabbage, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1 pepper (red, yellow, or green), thinly sliced
- Chives, chopped, for garnish
For the Dressing:
- Juice of a small lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 30 ml olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Salt the cabbage:
- Thinly slice 1/2 cabbage and place it in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with salt and gently massage the cabbage for about 1 minute.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Apple
- Grate and slice:
- Grate 1 carrot and thinly slice 2 cucumbers.
- Thinly slice or julienne 1 apple.
- Thinly slice 1 pepper and chop the chives.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Mix the dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the juice of a small lemon, 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger, 1 teaspoon honey, and 30 ml olive oil.
- Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Combine the ingredients:
- In a large bowl, add the cabbage, carrot, cucumbers, apple, pepper, and chopped chives.
- Add the dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Garnish with sesame seeds:
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sesame seeds before serving.
Ingredient Insights and Flavor Profile
Cabbage
- Types of Cabbage: Using a mix of green and purple cabbage not only adds a visual appeal but also creates a balance in taste and texture. Green cabbage is mild and slightly sweet, while purple cabbage has a more peppery flavor and offers a crunchy texture.
- Shredding: Shredding the cabbage finely is key, as it allows the dressing to coat each piece thoroughly. For best results, use a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor to achieve even shreds.
- Nutritional Benefits: Cabbage is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious base for this salad.
Apples
- Apple Varieties: Choose a crisp, slightly tart variety like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady. These apples hold up well in salads, providing a refreshing contrast to the cabbage.
- Flavor Balance: The natural sweetness and crunch of apples enhance the salad’s flavor and texture, contrasting the tangy dressing and hearty cabbage.
- Slicing Tips: Slice apples thinly or julienne for even distribution in the salad. To prevent browning, toss them in lemon juice before mixing with the other ingredients.
Carrots
- Flavor Addition: Carrots add a subtle sweetness that complements both the cabbage and apple, along with a vibrant orange color.
- Nutritional Value: Carrots are high in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins, enhancing the salad’s health benefits.
- Preparation: Grate or julienne the carrots for a texture that blends seamlessly with the cabbage and apples.
Fresh Herbs
- Herb Selection: Fresh parsley adds a peppery note, mint brings a refreshing coolness, and cilantro provides a hint of citrus. Each herb offers a unique twist, so feel free to choose based on preference.
- Flavor Boost: Herbs not only add fresh, aromatic flavors but also elevate the salad with a pop of green.
Optional Add-Ins
- Nuts and Seeds: Toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds add crunch, protein, and a nutty flavor that complements the freshness of the salad.
- Dried Fruits: Adding dried cranberries or raisins brings sweetness and chewiness to the salad, enhancing both texture and flavor.
- Onions: Thinly sliced red onions or green onions introduce a slight sharpness, balancing the sweet and tart elements in the salad.
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sesame seeds before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy with crusty bread for a light lunch.
- Pair with a bowl of soup for a satisfying meal.
- Top with roasted nuts like almonds or cashews for extra crunch.
- Add some feta cheese for a creamy element.
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey, based on your preference.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving for a refreshing taste.
- Use fresh ginger instead of dried for a more intense flavor.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint to enhance the freshness.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes for added flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in fiber from cabbage, carrot, and apple, promoting healthy digestion.
- Rich in vitamins from the fresh vegetables, especially vitamin C from lemon and pepper.
- Healthy fats from olive oil and sesame seeds, supporting heart health.
- Low in calories, making it ideal for a light and nutritious meal.
- Antioxidants from the ginger, supporting overall health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan, made entirely with plant-based ingredients.
- Gluten-free, suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
- Low-carb, great for a balanced, lower-carb diet.
- Dairy-free, perfect for those avoiding dairy products.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
Tips for Perfect Salad
- Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage, apples, and ginger make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Let It Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit with the dressing for a short time helps soften the cabbage and infuses it with the dressing’s flavors.
- Adjust Sweetness: The apple’s natural sweetness varies, so adjust the honey or maple syrup in the dressing to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even fish. It also complements richer dishes, thanks to its light and tangy profile. Serve it as a side dish at BBQs, picnics, or holiday gatherings.
Storage and Leftovers
- Storing: This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors intensify as it sits, though the apples may lose a bit of their crispness.
- Preventing Browning: To keep apples from browning, toss them with a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
Variations
- Add Fruit: Fresh orange segments or pomegranate seeds provide a sweet contrast.
- Try Different Cabbage: Napa cabbage or even Brussels sprouts (thinly sliced) can be used for a milder flavor.
- Alternative Dressings: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for an extra tang, or swap the lemon juice with apple cider vinegar for a different twist.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Note: The salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the vegetables can lose their crispness over time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Healthy and refreshing: Packed with fresh vegetables, apple, and a zesty dressing.
- Versatile dish: Enjoy as a side dish, light lunch, or snack.
- Simple ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Great for meal prep: Prepare in advance for a quick and healthy option during busy days.
Conclusion:
This Cabbage and Apple Salad with a Lemon Ginger Dressing is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a combination of crunchy vegetables, sweet apple, and a tangy dressing, it’s a refreshing choice for a nutritious meal or side. The salad comes together easily and is sure to become a go-to recipe for when you need something fresh and vibrant!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh ginger instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute freshly grated ginger for a more intense flavor. - How do I make this salad sweeter?
Add an extra teaspoon of honey or even some raisins for more sweetness. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or celery would all be great additions to this salad. - How do I keep the apple from browning?
Toss the apple slices in a little lemon juice to keep them from browning before adding to the salad. - What other toppings can I use?
You could add sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.Print
Refreshing Cabbage and Apple Salad with Lemon Ginger Dressing
- Total Time: 35mins
Description
This Refreshing Cabbage and Apple Salad is a crunchy, vibrant dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or a healthy snack. The combination of crisp vegetables, sweet apple, and tangy lemon ginger dressing makes this salad incredibly fresh and flavorful. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale- 1/2 cabbage, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1 pepper (red, yellow, or green), thinly sliced
- Chives, chopped, for garnish
For the Dressing:
- Juice of a small lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 30 ml olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
S
tep 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Salt the cabbage:
- Thinly slice 1/2 cabbage and place it in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with salt and gently massage the cabbage for about 1 minute.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Apple
- Grate and slice:
- Grate 1 carrot and thinly slice 2 cucumbers.
- Thinly slice or julienne 1 apple.
- Thinly slice 1 pepper and chop the chives.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Mix the dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the juice of a small lemon, 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger, 1 teaspoon honey, and 30 ml olive oil.
- Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Combine the ingredients:
- In a large bowl, add the cabbage, carrot, cucumbers, apple, pepper, and chopped chives.
- Add the dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Garnish with sesame seeds:
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sesame seeds before serving.
- Prep Time: 15mins
- Cook Time: 25mins
