Oh wow, let me tell you about red cabbage! This vibrant vegetable is not only a feast for the eyes with its stunning purple hue, but it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a superfood in my kitchen. I love tossing red cabbage into my salads because it adds that perfect crunch and a pop of color that brightens up any dish. Plus, it’s loaded with vitamins C and K and is a great source of fiber. Honestly, every time I make a salad with red cabbage, I feel like I’m doing something good for my body while also indulging my taste buds. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on its fresh, zesty flavor!
Ingredients for Red Cabbage Salad
- 1 medium red cabbage, washed and quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Make sure to slice the cabbage into thin strips after quartering it—this helps it soak up all the delicious dressing! If you prefer a finer texture, feel free to chop it even more. Each bite should be crunchy and flavorful!
How to Prepare Red Cabbage Salad
Preparing this red cabbage salad is super simple, and I promise it doesn’t take much time at all! Start by washing the red cabbage under cold water to get rid of any dirt or residues. Next, remove those tough outer leaves and cut the cabbage into quarters. Don’t worry; it’s easier than it sounds!
Once you’ve got your quarters, slice the cabbage into thin strips. I like to make them about a quarter-inch thick, but it’s really up to you. Just remember, the thinner the strips, the more deliciously they soak up that dressing! Now, grab a large bowl and combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and honey if you’re feeling adventurous. Whisk it all together until the mixture is nice and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
Now, toss the sliced cabbage into the bowl with the dressing and mix well—get in there with your hands if you need to! You want every piece of cabbage to be coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows those flavors to mingle and really come to life. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—great for busy weeknights!
- Packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
- Versatile—perfect as a side dish or a colorful addition to salads.
- The vibrant color makes it a stunning centerpiece on your table.
- Adjustable flavors to suit your taste—add more honey for sweetness or extra vinegar for zing!
Tips for Success
To make sure your red cabbage salad turns out perfectly, don’t hesitate to adjust the flavors to your liking! If you love a bit more sweetness, add an extra drizzle of honey; for a tangier kick, a splash more vinegar does wonders. Also, letting the salad marinate for at least 30 minutes is key—it really allows the flavors to meld. If you have time, letting it sit longer will deepen those delicious tastes even more. Enjoy the process and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk numbers! For one serving of this delightful red cabbage salad, you’re looking at approximately 22 calories. It contains about 1 gram of fat, with no saturated fat, and 1 gram of protein. You’ll also get around 5 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber, which is fantastic for digestion! Just remember, these values are estimates, and they can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, you can feel good about indulging in this colorful, healthy dish!
Serving Suggestions
This red cabbage salad is super versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light, refreshing meal. It also makes a fantastic topping for tacos or a vibrant addition to wraps. For a complete feast, try it with some roasted vegetables or a hearty grain dish like quinoa. It really elevates the entire meal experience! Enjoy experimenting with your favorites!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your red cabbage salad fresh and tasty, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for up to 3 days, but trust me, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal crunch and flavor! Just give it a good toss before serving again, as the dressing may settle. No reheating needed—just serve it cold and enjoy that refreshing taste!
FAQ about Red Cabbage
Can I use green cabbage instead of red? Absolutely! Green cabbage works well, but it won’t give you that gorgeous vibrant color. The flavor’s a bit milder too, so if you want that tangy crunch, stick with red!
How do I know if my red cabbage is fresh? Look for firm heads with crisp leaves and vibrant color. If it’s wilted or has brown spots, it’s time to pass. Fresh red cabbage will have a lovely crunch when you slice it!
Can I add other vegetables to this salad? Yes! Feel free to throw in some chopped carrots, bell peppers, or even apples for a sweet crunch. It’s all about making it your own!
Is red cabbage good for you? Definitely! It’s packed with vitamins C and K and is a fantastic source of antioxidants. Plus, it’s low in calories, making it a great addition to any healthy eating plan!
How long does red cabbage salad last in the fridge? It’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving to mix up those yummy flavors again!
Print
Red cabbage: 7 Zesty Reasons to Love This Superfood
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A nutritious and vibrant vegetable that adds color to salads and dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 medium red cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the red cabbage under cold water.
- Remove the outer leaves and cut the cabbage into quarters.
- Slice the cabbage into thin strips.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and honey.
- Add the sliced cabbage to the bowl and toss until well coated.
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Great as a side dish or in salads.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: Various
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 22
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: red cabbage, salad, healthy, vegetables
