Traditional Cabbage Salad

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
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Traditional Cabbage Salad is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its balance of creamy and tangy flavors, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy fresh vegetables. It's simple, quick, and adds a splash of color to your table.

Ingredients for Traditional Cabbage Salad

Cabbage is the star of this dish, providing a crunchy base that holds the dressing well. A medium head should do the trick, and shredding it finely ensures that every bite is balanced.

Carrots add a sweet note and vibrant color, complementing the cabbage and enhancing the salad’s visual appeal.

Red onion gives a slight sharpness and a pop of color, cutting through the creaminess of the dressing.

Mayonnaise serves as the creamy component of the dressing, binding all the ingredients together.

Apple cider vinegar introduces a tangy element, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise.

Sugar adds a subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a mandoline slicer for the cabbage and onion for consistent thinness.
  • Let the salad sit overnight if possible; it tastes even better the next day!
  • Try red or Napa cabbage for a twist on flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This cabbage salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or roasted chicken. It’s also a great accompaniment to sandwiches or burgers, adding a fresh crunch. For a picnic or potluck, serve it alongside a variety of cold cuts and cheeses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative to keep the creaminess without the dairy.
How long will this salad keep?
It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give it a good toss before serving again.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and color.

Traditional Cabbage Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preparing your vegetables. Take a medium head of cabbage and shred it finely. You want thin strips that are easy to toss and eat. Peel and grate two large carrots, and then slice a quarter cup of red onion as thinly as possible. Place all these vegetables in a large mixing bowl, which gives you enough room to toss everything together comfortably.

In a separate bowl, it’s time to make the dressing. Combine half a cup of mayonnaise with two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and one tablespoon of sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. This base will coat your salad beautifully.

Now, pour the dressing over your bowl of shredded cabbage, carrots, and onion. Use a pair of salad tongs or two large spoons to toss everything until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. This step is crucial to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Once mixed, season your salad with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavor, so don’t be shy. A pinch here and there can make a big difference.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad taste even better.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have.
  • A great make-ahead dish that tastes even better the next day.
  • Versatile enough to pair with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

1 medium head of cabbage, finely shredded
2 large carrots, peeled and grated
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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