Why You’ll Love this Red Cabbage Salad Recipe
When you try this red cabbage salad recipe, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite. The vibrant colors and crunch of the cabbage make it visually appealing and satisfying to eat.
I love how the tangy dressing perfectly complements the earthiness of the cabbage, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! With just a few simple steps, I can whip it up as a side dish or a light meal.
The best part? It gets even better after marinating, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. You’re going to love this invigorating salad!
Ingredients of Red Cabbage Salad
When it comes to whipping up a rejuvenating salad, this Red Cabbage Salad is a go-to favorite in my kitchen. It’s not just about the taste; it’s also about how quick and easy it’s to pull together.
Seriously, if you can chop and mix, you can make this salad. Plus, the ingredients are pretty straightforward, which means you won’t need to make an extra trip to the grocery store for some obscure item.
So let’s explore what you’ll need to gather to create this vibrant dish!
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need for the Red Cabbage Salad:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 14 ounces red cabbage, finely sliced
- 5 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 ounce walnuts, chopped
Now, a couple of things to ponder with these ingredients. First off, feel free to get creative. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you could swap them out for some sunflower seeds or even pumpkin seeds for that crunchy texture.
And let’s talk about the cabbage for a second—if you can’t find red cabbage, green cabbage will work in a pinch, but you’ll lose that beautiful hue.
Also, the marinade time is essential. I know, waiting can be tough, especially when your taste buds are doing a little happy dance just thinking about it.
But trust me, letting it marinate for at least two hours takes this salad from good to absolutely mouthwatering.
How to Make Red Cabbage Salad
Let’s plunge right into making this delightful Red Cabbage Salad. First off, grab your cutting board and start by finely chopping 1 onion. I know, onions can make us shed a tear or two, but the flavor they bring to this salad is totally worth it.
Next, take 14 ounces of red cabbage and slice it finely. If you’ve never handled red cabbage before, don’t worry; it’s just like green cabbage but with a bit more flair. Once you’re done chopping, toss the cabbage and onion into a large bowl. This is where the magic begins.
Now, let’s whip up the dressing. In a separate bowl, combine 5 tablespoons of sunflower oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of mustard, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of cumin. Give it a good whisk. You’re looking for a smooth, creamy dressing that’s going to coat all that crunchy goodness.
Once you’ve got it mixed, pour the dressing over your cabbage and onion mixture. Gently toss everything together until every piece is well coated. It’s like giving your salad a warm hug.
Here comes the hardest part—waiting. I know, I know, it’s tough, especially when your taste buds are begging you to plunge in. But trust me on this one. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours. This waiting game allows the flavors to mingle and deepen, transforming your salad into something truly special.
Just before serving, sprinkle an ounce of chopped walnuts on top for that extra crunch. And voilà, you’ve just made a revitalizing Red Cabbage Salad that’s not just a feast for the eyes but a real treat for the palate too. Enjoy!
Red Cabbage Salad Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Red Cabbage Salad, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
For a sweeter twist, try adding diced apples or pears. If you want a crunchier texture, toss in some shredded carrots or bell peppers. You can also swap sunflower oil for olive oil or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra zing.
Not a fan of walnuts? Try pecans or sunflower seeds instead. Finally, experiment with spices like paprika or coriander to personalize the flavor.
The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy!
What to Serve with Red Cabbage Salad
While red cabbage salad stands out on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes that enhance its flavors and textures.
I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish; their smoky flavors complement the salad’s crunch perfectly. It also works well with hearty dishes like roasted pork or beef, adding a revitalizing contrast.
For a lighter meal, I often enjoy it with quinoa or chickpea bowls, which provide a satisfying protein boost.
Don’t forget to try it with sandwiches or wraps for a colorful crunch that elevates your lunch. Trust me, you won’t regret these pairings!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance the flavors of your red cabbage salad, consider letting it marinate for longer than the recommended two hours; this allows the ingredients to meld beautifully.
If you want a bit more crunch, try adding some grated carrots or sliced bell peppers. For a zesty kick, a pinch of chili flakes can do wonders.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the dressing—substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise can make it lighter.
Finally, if you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container; they’ll still taste great the next day.
Enjoy your vibrant, flavorful salad!