Refreshing Cabbage Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

This light and zesty cabbage salad is packed with crunchy vegetables and tossed in a tangy honey mustard dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal or a refreshing standalone snack.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • For the Salad:
    • 1/2 cabbage, shredded (about 400 g)
    • Salt, to taste
    • 3 celery stalks, chopped
    • 1 carrot, grated
    • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • For the Dressing:
    • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon mustard
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon honey

Directions

  • Prepare the Vegetables:
    • In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, chopped celery, grated carrot, and sliced cucumber.
    • Sprinkle the cabbage with a pinch of salt and toss to combine.
  • Make the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, mustard, minced garlic, and honey until smooth and emulsified.
  • Toss the Salad:
    • Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
    • Toss well to ensure the dressing coats all the vegetables evenly.
  • Serve:
    • Serve immediately or let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a light, healthy meal.
  • Use it as a topping for tacos or wraps for added crunch and freshness.
  • Enjoy as a refreshing side dish for a barbecue or picnic.

Cooking Tips

  • Massage the cabbage lightly with salt to soften it and enhance its flavor.
  • For extra crunch, add sunflower seeds or chopped nuts to the salad.
  • Adjust the dressing’s sweetness or tanginess by tweaking the amount of honey or vinegar.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Cabbage: High in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Carrot: Rich in beta-carotene and vitamins.
  • Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories.
  • Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian and gluten-free.
  • Can be made vegan by replacing honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~120
  • Protein: ~2 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~10 g
  • Fat: ~8 g

Storage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
  • Packed with fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables.
  • The tangy honey mustard dressing elevates the flavors.
  • Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or weekday meals.

Conclusion
This refreshing cabbage salad with honey mustard dressing is a perfect balance of crunch, tang, and sweetness. It’s a versatile dish that fits into various meals, bringing both nutrition and flavor to your table.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
    Yes, red cabbage adds a vibrant color and slightly sweeter flavor.
  2. How can I make this salad spicier?
    Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
  3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
    Yes, prepare the salad and dressing separately. Combine just before serving.
  4. What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
    Use white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
  5. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Try adding bell peppers, radishes, or cherry tomatoes.
  6. Is this salad kid-friendly?
    Yes, but you might want to reduce the mustard if kids prefer milder flavors.
  7. Can I use store-bought dressing?
    Yes, but homemade dressing offers fresher and more balanced flavors.
  8. How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
    Add the dressing just before serving.
  9. What type of mustard is best?
    Dijon mustard works best for a tangy, smooth dressing.
  10. Can I make this salad without oil?
    Yes, replace olive oil with a splash of vegetable broth for a lighter option.