Simple Cabbage Salad Recipe

This Simple Cabbage Salad is crisp, refreshing, and packed with zesty flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, it comes together in no time, making it the perfect side dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or light lunches. A tangy lemon-Dijon dressing coats crunchy shredded cabbage, creating a salad that’s both simple and satisfying.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy

This salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare and requires no cooking. It’s a great last-minute dish when you need something fresh and healthy on the table fast.

Light Yet Flavorful

The combination of lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey creates a perfectly balanced dressing—tangy, slightly sweet, and full of flavor. The crisp texture of cabbage adds a satisfying crunch.

Healthy & Nutritious

Cabbage is packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. The dressing is made with heart-healthy olive oil, making this salad a wholesome choice.

Diet-Friendly

This cabbage salad is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, vegetarian, and egg-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• 8 cups shredded green cabbage (from 1 small head)

Notes on Quality

• Use fresh green cabbage for the best crunch. You can also try a mix of green and purple cabbage for extra color.
• Fresh parsley adds brightness, but you can substitute with cilantro or dill for a different flavor twist.
• Dijon mustard gives the dressing its bold flavor, but whole-grain mustard or yellow mustard can work in a pinch.

Possible Substitutions

• Swap honey for maple syrup or agave for a vegan version.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, add Greek yogurt or mayo to the dressing.
• Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can replace lemon juice if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the shredded cabbage to the bowl and toss well to coat every piece in the dressing.
3. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Toss again and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving for an even better flavor.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Massage the cabbage with your hands for a minute after tossing to slightly soften it and enhance the flavors.
• Let the salad chill in the fridge for a bit before serving—it tastes even better when the flavors have time to develop.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the resting time—giving the salad a few minutes to absorb the dressing makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Using pre-shredded cabbage—freshly shredded cabbage has a better crunch and texture.

Time-Saving Tips

• Use a food processor or mandoline slicer to shred the cabbage quickly.
• Make the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a simple veggie-packed sandwich.

Looking for more fresh and flavorful salads? Try these:

• Beet Garden Salad with Goat Cheese
• Tomato Feta Salad

Presentation Ideas

• Serve in a wooden salad bowl for a rustic look.
• Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture.

Beverage Pairings

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the freshness of the salad.
• A refreshing lemon-infused sparkling water pairs perfectly for a non-alcoholic option.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cabbage will soften over time but still taste great.

Reheating Methods

No reheating is needed! Enjoy this salad cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage instead?

Absolutely! Red cabbage adds vibrant color and a slightly sweeter taste.

How do I make this salad more filling?

Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra protein and crunch.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

It’s naturally low in carbs, but you can omit the honey to make it fully keto.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• For a vegan version, swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
• To make it low-carb, reduce or eliminate the honey.

Flavor Twists

• Add shredded carrots or thinly sliced radishes for more crunch.
• Mix in a handful of cranberries or apple slices for a sweet contrast.
• Sprinkle in feta cheese for a creamy touch.

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• For a fall twist, add toasted pecans and diced apples.
• During summer, mix in grilled corn or chopped cucumbers for a refreshing variation.

Conclusion

This Simple Cabbage Salad is a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful side dish. With its quick prep time and healthy ingredients, it’s a salad you’ll come back to again and again. Try it out, and let me know how you liked it in the comments!

For more delicious salad recipes, check out:

• Beet Garden Salad with Goat Cheese
• Tomato Feta Salad

Want more salad inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest: Cooking with Callie

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