Cabbage Apple Salad

When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Cabbage Apple Salad, I didn’t realize how much joy it would bring to my table. On a crisp autumn day, I was looking for something fresh yet hearty to complement my meals. This salad became an unexpected favorite, with its vibrant colors and crunchy textures. The sweetness of the apples paired with the slight bitterness of the cabbage creates a delightful contrast that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that invites creativity, allowing you to experiment with various fruits and nuts based on the season or your cravings.

As I prepared this salad for a family gathering, I remember the delighted expressions on my loved ones’ faces as they took their first bites. The combination of sweet and savory flavors dances in your mouth, making it the perfect accompaniment to any dish. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner, this Cabbage Apple Salad adds a bright touch that elevates the entire meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Let’s not forget how versatile this salad is. You can enjoy it as a side dish or even as a light main course. As I continued to make it, I realized it was also a wonderful way to use up leftover ingredients, like nuts and dried fruits. This recipe has truly become a staple in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Essential Ingredients for Cabbage Apple Salad

The ingredients in this Cabbage Apple Salad are both simple and wholesome, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The core players in this recipe work harmoniously to provide a delightful balance of sweetness, crunch, and freshness. Each ingredient complements the others, making this salad not just a side dish but a flavorful experience.

• Cabbage – 2/3 head, thinly sliced and then chopped into short strips. The base of this salad, cabbage adds a satisfying crunch and is rich in vitamins.
• Granny Smith apples – 2 small, peeled and chopped. Their tartness gives the salad a refreshing sweetness that perfectly balances the flavors.
• Baby kale – 5 oz., stems removed and washed. Adding baby kale brings an extra layer of nutrition and a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Dried cranberries – 1/2 cup, preferably low-sugar. These contribute a chewy texture and sweet bursts of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
• Pistachios – 1/2 cup, shelled. For crunch and a nutty flavor, pistachios are a fantastic addition that also provides healthy fats.

Recipe Steps for Cabbage Apple Salad

Let’s dive into how easy it is to prepare the delicious Cabbage Apple Salad. The steps are straightforward and make the process enjoyable. With each step, you’ll see how the ingredients come together to create a delightful dish.

1. Start by peeling the apple and cutting away the core. I used an Apple Corer and Slicer for this, which makes it so much easier. Once cored, cut the apple into slices lengthwise, and chop those slices into chunks. This ensures every bite has a perfect amount of sweetness.
2. Next, it’s time to prepare the cabbage. Slice it into thin pieces and then chop those slices into short strips. I found that a Mandoline Slicer is a handy tool for achieving the perfect texture. You want the cabbage to be easy to chew but still maintain its crunch.
3. If you’re using baby kale, now is the time to pull off any stems. You can wash the kale in a salad spinner if it needs it. This step is optional, but removing the stems will give a more tender bite to the salad.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, a sweetener of your choice, salt, pepper, and black sesame seeds (or poppy seeds). This dressing is the magic that ties all the flavors together. Whisk until well combined and emulsified.
5. Take the sliced and chopped cabbage and place it in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and toss well to ensure every piece is coated. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor.
6. Add the chopped apples and baby kale to the bowl and toss again. You want to see the colors mix beautifully, and the dressing should glaze everything evenly.
7. Then, add most of the dried cranberries and pistachios, tossing everything together one last time. This is where the salad really comes to life, with bursts of sweetness and crunch.
8. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. For a final touch, sprinkle the reserved dried cranberries and pistachios on top to make it visually appealing. Serve right away to enjoy the freshness!
9. Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with this salad! I believe there are endless variations of dried fruit and nuts that would be wonderful in this Cabbage Apple Salad. Have fun mixing and matching your favorite ingredients.

Recipe Tips about Cabbage Apple Salad

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Cabbage Apple Salad turns out perfectly every time. With a few tricks, you’ll make this dish a family favorite!

• Storage: The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 2 days, but the cabbage may lose some crunch.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the textures of the fresh ingredients will change once thawed.
• Pairing: The Cabbage Apple Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It also complements hearty dishes like roasted vegetables.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the dressing for extra sweetness, especially if you prefer a sweeter salad.
• Nut Variations: Try using different nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different flavor surprise. Each nut brings its unique taste and texture!
• Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor. They can brighten the salad even more.

What to Serve With Cabbage Apple Salad

When it comes to serving the Cabbage Apple Salad, the possibilities are endless. This salad not only stands alone as a light dish but also complements various meals beautifully. Here’s how to make the most of your serving experience:

• Grilled Chicken: Pair this salad with grilled chicken for a delicious protein boost. The flavors of the salad enhance the smoky taste of the chicken, creating a great balance.
• Fish Dishes: It’s also fantastic alongside grilled or baked fish. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the fish, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Vegetarian Options: For a vegetarian meal, serve the Cabbage Apple Salad with lentil patties or quinoa bowls. The salad adds a refreshing touch to hearty vegetarian options.
• Lunch or Dinner: It’s perfect for both lunch and dinner. Serve it during a light summer lunch or as a side during a winter dinner party.
• Seasonal Celebrations: This salad can be a great addition to your holiday table. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a festive choice for gatherings.
• Quick Snack: If you’re looking for a quick snack, enjoy this salad on its own! It’s refreshing and filling, making it a great mid-day pick-me-up.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Cabbage Apple Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. Its vibrant colors and crunch make it not just nutritious but visually appealing as well. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own with different fruits and nuts. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy!

Cabbage Apple Salad

The ultimate comfort food, the Cabbage Apple Salad is a refreshing and crunchy dish that combines sweet apples and crisp cabbage. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or as a side at gatherings, this salad brings a burst of flavors that will have you craving more. Try it tonight for a delightful twist on your usual salads!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Peeler

Ingredients

  

• 2/3 head head Cabbage thinly sliced and then chopped into short strips
• 2 small Granny Smith apples peeled and chopped
• 5 oz. oz. Baby kale stems removed and washed
• 1/2 cup cup Dried cranberries preferably low-sugar dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup cup Pistachios shelled

Instructions

 

• Start by peeling the apple and cutting away the core. I used an Apple Corer and Slicer for this, which makes it so much easier. Once cored, cut the apple into slices lengthwise, and chop those slices into chunks. This ensures every bite has a perfect amount of sweetness.
• Next, it’s time to prepare the cabbage. Slice it into thin pieces and then chop those slices into short strips. I found that a Mandoline Slicer is a handy tool for achieving the perfect texture. You want the cabbage to be easy to chew but still maintain its crunch.
• If you’re using baby kale, now is the time to pull off any stems. You can wash the kale in a salad spinner if it needs it. This step is optional, but removing the stems will give a more tender bite to the salad.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, a sweetener of your choice, salt, pepper, and black sesame seeds (or poppy seeds). This dressing is the magic that ties all the flavors together. Whisk until well combined and emulsified.
• Take the sliced and chopped cabbage and place it in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and toss well to ensure every piece is coated. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor.
• Add the chopped apples and baby kale to the bowl and toss again. You want to see the colors mix beautifully, and the dressing should glaze everything evenly.
• Then, add most of the dried cranberries and pistachios, tossing everything together one last time. This is where the salad really comes to life, with bursts of sweetness and crunch.
• Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. For a final touch, sprinkle the reserved dried cranberries and pistachios on top to make it visually appealing. Serve right away to enjoy the freshness!
• Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with this salad! I believe there are endless variations of dried fruit and nuts that would be wonderful in this Cabbage Apple Salad. Have fun mixing and matching your favorite ingredients.

Notes

Here are some helpful tips about the Cabbage Apple Salad: Storage: The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 2 days, but the cabbage may lose some crunch. Freezing: It's not recommended to freeze this salad, as the textures of the fresh ingredients will change once thawed. Pairing: The Cabbage Apple Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It also complements hearty dishes like roasted vegetables. Flavor Enhancements: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the dressing for extra sweetness. Nut Variations: Try using different nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different flavor surprise. Each nut brings its unique taste and texture!

Keyword Cabbage Apple Salad, Easy Side Dish, Fall Recipes, healthy salad recipes

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!