Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vibrant and crunchy Red Cabbage Salad is a perfect combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. The red cabbage is the star of the show, providing a satisfying crunch, while the carrots and green onions add a pop of color and freshness. Tossed in a light dressing made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and seasonings, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, this refreshing salad is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Red cabbage (shredded)
• 3 medium Carrots (coarsely grated)
• 3 medium Green onions (sliced – green parts only)
• 1/3 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp Honey (I use my natural Wholesome Yum Zero Sugar Honey)
• 1/2 tsp Sea salt (to taste)
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup Almonds (sliced)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, coarsely grated carrots, and sliced green onions.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly.
4. Add the sliced almonds and give the salad another quick toss to distribute the almonds throughout.
5. Serve immediately for a fresh crunch or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. Prep time is around 10-15 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare. You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge to enhance the flavors.

Variations

• Nuts & Seeds: Swap the almonds for other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for different textures and flavors.
• Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey, or use a sugar-free sweetener for a lower-carb version.
• Add Protein: Top the salad with grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill to elevate the flavor profile.
• Citrus Twist: For a zesty twist, add lemon or orange juice to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

This Red Cabbage Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best served fresh, but it can be enjoyed as leftovers, though the almonds may lose their crunch over time. If you plan to store it, keep the almonds separate and add them just before serving for extra crunch.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just keep the almonds separate and add them right before serving to maintain their crunch.

Can I use other types of cabbage in this recipe?

Yes, you can use green cabbage instead of red cabbage for a milder flavor. However, the red cabbage adds a lovely color and crunch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Red Cabbage Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the ingredients in any honey or dressing to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten.

How do I make this salad vegan?

The recipe is already vegan if you use a plant-based honey substitute, such as agave or maple syrup, instead of regular honey.

Can I make this salad spicier?

Yes! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño to the dressing for an added kick of spice.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with agave syrup, maple syrup, or even a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit if you prefer a lower-carb option.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even a handful of kale or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and toss it in just before serving. This will help maintain the crunchiness of the cabbage and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Can I make this a full meal?

Yes, you can turn this salad into a complete meal by adding a protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu. You could also serve it as a side dish with grilled meat or fish.

Can I use roasted almonds instead of raw?

Yes, roasted almonds will add an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Just be aware that they may have a slightly stronger flavor, so taste and adjust accordingly.

Conclusion

This Red Cabbage Salad is a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its crunchy texture, vibrant colors, and balance of flavors from the tangy dressing and sweet honey, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or as a healthy side dish, this salad is both satisfying and simple to prepare. Customize it with your favorite nuts or protein to make it your own!

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