This Spicy Cabbage Salad with Crunchy Vegetables is a refreshing, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish. It’s packed with crisp cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and a delicious homemade dressing with a kick. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish, this salad is sure to add a burst of flavor to any meal.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- 170g cabbage
- 50g carrots
- 1 medium onion (approximately 20g)
- 150g cucumber
- 1 red chili pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
- 1 yellow chili pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
Dressing:
- 70g white sugar (consider a lower sugar option like stevia or monk fruit extract if desired)
- 40ml fish sauce
- 25g fresh chili pepper, finely chopped (adjust according to spice preference)
- 7 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 10g fresh coriander leaves, chopped (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Shred the cabbage. Soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to help crisp it up. Drain well.
- Thinly slice the carrots and onion.
- After draining the cabbage, combine it with the carrots and onion in a large bowl.
- Thinly slice the cucumber, red chili pepper, and yellow chili pepper. Add them to the bowl with the other vegetables.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the white sugar, fish sauce, chopped chili pepper, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves and a well-combined dressing forms.
- Combine and Serve:
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Stir in the chopped coriander leaves (if using).
- Serve immediately for a fresh and crisp salad, or chill for a bit in the refrigerator for a colder and more refreshing taste.
Nutritional Value
- Cabbage: Low in calories, high in vitamins C and K, and fiber.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Cucumber: Hydrating, low in calories, and provides vitamins K and C.
- Chili Peppers: High in vitamins A and C, and capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting properties.
- Garlic: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fish Sauce: Adds umami flavor and is a source of protein.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Suitable for a dairy-free diet.
- Low-Calorie: This salad is low in calories, making it a great option for weight management.
- Vegan Option: Substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld together.
- Do Not Freeze: This salad is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as freezing can affect the texture of the vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this salad a breeze to prepare.
- Flavorful and Refreshing: Combines fresh vegetables with a tangy and spicy dressing.
- Healthy: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Conclusion
This Spicy Cabbage Salad with Crunchy Vegetables is a fantastic addition to any meal. It’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to make, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner. Enjoy the refreshing crunch and the kick of spice in this delicious salad!
Enjoy your meal!