Our 17 Best Cabbage Salad Recipes

Cabbage salads are the unsung heroes of the vegetable world. They offer a refreshing crunch, versatility, and a wide array of flavors that can suit every palate. Whether you’re craving a classic coleslaw, a tangy Asian-style salad, or something with a bit of extra crunch and spice, cabbage salads can easily transition from side dish to main course. Light yet satisfying, these cabbage salad recipes are packed with texture and flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. They’re ideal for warm summer days, light lunches, or as a crisp contrast to a heartier meal. So if you’re looking for fresh, vibrant, and healthy salad ideas, you’ve come to the right place!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp chef’s knife or mandolin (for shredding cabbage)
• Salad tongs or spoons
• Grater (optional, for carrots)
• Whisk (for mixing dressings)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Small bowl (for preparing dressings)

Overview of Ingredients

Cabbage is the star ingredient in each of these recipes. You’ll often find it paired with ingredients like carrots, apples, or bell peppers, and dressed with anything from tangy vinegar-based dressings to creamy concoctions. Most recipes feature ingredients that are easy to find and affordable, making cabbage salads a staple in every home cook’s rotation. You’ll also get to experiment with different dressings, from sweet and sour to spicy and rich, as you discover your perfect cabbage salad.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Cabbage: Start by trimming the cabbage and removing the outer leaves. Slice the cabbage into quarters, then remove the core. Shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandolin into thin strips. A finer shred offers a more delicate texture, while thicker cuts add extra crunch.
2. Prepare the Other Vegetables: For some variations, such as an Asian-style cabbage salad, thinly slice vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers. Shredded carrots add a burst of color and sweetness, while bell peppers bring a pop of flavor. You can also add diced apples or raisins for a sweet touch, or fresh herbs for extra freshness.
3. Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together your dressing ingredients. For a classic coleslaw, mix mayonnaise with a bit of apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt. For a more tangy dressing, use lemon juice, mustard, and olive oil. If you’re aiming for an Asian twist, sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar come together wonderfully.
4. Toss and Combine: Once all your ingredients are prepped, add the shredded cabbage and other veggies to a large mixing bowl. Pour your dressing over the top and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Make sure the cabbage and veggies are well-coated in the dressing for maximum flavor.
5. Chill (Optional): Some cabbage salads benefit from resting in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. This is especially true for salads with crunchy ingredients, as the cabbage will soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the dressing.

Recipe Tips

• For a Creamier Salad: If you prefer a creamier dressing, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mayo or vinegar-based dressing.
• Add Protein: If you want to turn your cabbage salad into a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu.
• Use Different Cabbage: Green cabbage is the most common choice, but don’t shy away from using purple cabbage or Napa cabbage for a more vibrant and slightly different flavor.
• Make Ahead: Cabbage salads are great for meal prep. Prepare them in advance, but hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the veggies crisp.

What to Serve with This Recipe

Cabbage salads pair beautifully with light proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also serve them alongside roasted vegetables or as a crunchy side dish to a more substantial meal like grilled fish or a savory grain bowl. These salads work wonderfully as a refreshing complement to spicy dishes and hearty soups.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this salad in advance?
  Yes, you can prepare the cabbage and veggies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two. Add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crispness.
• Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
  Absolutely! Pre-shredded cabbage is a convenient shortcut, especially if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• How can I make a vegan cabbage salad?
  To make a vegan version, swap out any dairy ingredients like mayonnaise for vegan alternatives such as avocado or tahini-based dressings. There are plenty of plant-based dressings to suit your tastes!

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Chef’s knife or mandolin
• Grater (optional)
• Small bowl for dressings
• Whisk or spoon

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cabbage (green or purple)
• 2 medium carrots (shredded or julienned)
• 1 bell pepper (optional, thinly sliced)
• 1 apple (optional, diced)
• Fresh herbs (optional, like parsley or cilantro)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan alternative)
• 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar or honey (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, for tang)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Shred the cabbage and prepare other veggies.
2. Prepare the dressing by whisking together the ingredients.
3. Toss the cabbage, veggies, and dressing in a large bowl until well coated.
4. Chill for 30 minutes or serve immediately.

Notes

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Sweeten It Up: If you like your cabbage salad a bit sweeter, consider adding chopped fruit like apples, raisins, or pineapple.

Enjoy these refreshing and versatile cabbage salad recipes that are guaranteed to be the hit of your next meal!

Cabbage salads

Cabbage salads are the unsung heroes of the vegetable world. They offer a refreshing crunch, versatility, and a wide array of flavors that can suit every palate. Whether you’re craving a classic coleslaw, a tangy Asian-style salad, or something with a bit of extra crunch and spice, cabbage salads can easily transition from side dish to main course.

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Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Chef’s knife or mandolin
• Grater (optional)
• Small bowl for dressings
• Whisk or spoon

Ingredients

  

• 1 medium head of cabbage green or purple
• 2 medium carrots shredded or julienned
• 1 bell pepper optional, thinly sliced
• 1 apple optional, diced
• Fresh herbs optional, like parsley or cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Dressing:
• ½ cup mayonnaise or vegan alternative
• 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar or honey optional, for sweetness
• 1 tablespoon mustard optional, for tang
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Shred the cabbage and prepare other veggies.
• Prepare the dressing by whisking together the ingredients.
• Toss the cabbage, veggies, and dressing in a large bowl until well coated.
• Chill for 30 minutes or serve immediately.

Notes

Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Sweeten It Up: If you like your cabbage salad a bit sweeter, consider adding chopped fruit like apples, raisins, or pineapple.