Why You’ll Love this Cabbage Salad Recipe
You’re going to love this cabbage salad recipe for its perfect blend of crunch and flavor. It’s a delightful mix that never fails to impress at gatherings.
The combination of crunchy ramen and fresh cabbage creates a satisfying texture, while the dressing ties everything together with a burst of tanginess. I remember serving this salad at a summer barbecue; everyone couldn’t get enough!
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy days. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Let’s explore how to create this delicious dish!
Ingredients of Cabbage Salad
When it comes to making a delicious cabbage salad, having the right ingredients is key. You want a blend that not only tastes good but also offers a satisfying crunch. Thankfully, this recipe uses simple ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store.
Whether you’re prepping for a potluck or just craving something fresh, these ingredients will set you on the right path to creating a salad that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Cabbage Salad:
- 1 (1 lb) package of cabbage coleslaw mix
- 2 packages ramen noodles, broken into small pieces (discard the flavor packet)
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds or sunflower seeds
- 1 small onion or shallot, diced
- 1/2 cup oil (your choice, but a light oil works best)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
Now, let’s talk a bit more about these ingredients. The cabbage coleslaw mix is your base, and it brings that fantastic crunch we all love.
Feel free to get creative with the toppings—if you’re not a fan of almonds, sunflower seeds are a great alternative. And don’t worry if you’re not a vinegar aficionado; the balance with sugar and soy sauce brings out the flavors beautifully, making it less intimidating.
Plus, if you’re like me and sometimes forget to check for onion in your pantry, don’t stress! You can easily skip it or swap it for a green onion if that’s what you have on hand.
The beauty of this salad is its versatility—it’s all about what you enjoy!
How to Make Cabbage Salad
Making cabbage salad is a delightful experience, and let me tell you, it’s easier than you might think. First, grab your 1-pound package of cabbage coleslaw mix. This will be the base of your salad, and trust me, it gives that crunch we all love.
Next, you’ll need two packages of ramen noodles. But here’s the kicker: you want to break them into small pieces while they’re still in the bag. It’s kind of fun, like a mini workout for your hands. Just don’t forget to discard those little flavor packets—unless you want your salad to taste like a flavor bomb went off, which I don’t recommend.
Now, let’s toast those ramen pieces and your choice of nuts. Heat a dry frying pan over medium heat and toss in the broken ramen and 1/2 cup of slivered almonds or sunflower seeds. Keep an eye on them for about 5 to 6 minutes. You want a nice golden hue, but don’t get distracted by your phone—burnt ramen is a tragedy no one wants to face.
Once they’re toasted, mix the cabbage and diced onion (or shallot, if you’re feeling fancy) in a large mixing bowl. Then, add that delightful ramen mixture to the bowl.
Now for the dressing! In a separate container, whisk together 1/2 cup of oil, 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and either 1/4 cup of balsamic or red wine vinegar. Give it a good shake or stir until it’s well combined.
Here’s where the magic happens: pour that dressing over the cabbage mixture. Some folks like to dress it right before serving, but I say let those flavors mingle for a bit. You’ll end up with a salad that not only looks great but tastes even better.
Cabbage Salad Substitutions & Variations
Exploring substitutions and variations for cabbage salad can elevate this classic dish in delightful ways.
I love switching up the cabbage; you can use kale or even Brussels sprouts for a twist. For crunch, try adding walnuts or pumpkin seeds instead of almonds or sunflower seeds.
If you want a different flavor, swap the balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar. Don’t hesitate to throw in some diced fruits like apples or pears for a touch of sweetness.
Finally, experiment with proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it heartier. The possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Cabbage Salad
After trying out different substitutions and variations for cabbage salad, you might wonder what to pair it with for a complete meal.
I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. If I’m in the mood for something vegetarian, roasted chickpeas add a lovely crunch.
For a heartier option, consider pulled pork or tacos, as the salad complements the flavors beautifully.
And don’t forget about crusty bread or warm pita on the side; they’re perfect for scooping up salad.
These pairings not only enhance the meal but also make for a colorful and satisfying dinner plate.
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your cabbage salad, keep in mind a few additional tips that can elevate your dish. Toasting the ramen and almonds adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor.
If you prefer a bit of sweetness, consider adding diced apples or raisins for a fruity twist. I’ve found that letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
For an extra zing, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Finally, feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds to suit your taste!