There is something so satisfying about a salad you can make without overthinking it. This Everyday Cabbage Salad is crisp, bright, and lightly tangy with just enough sweetness to keep you coming back for another forkful. It is the kind of simple side that quietly makes every meal feel fresher.
If you are looking for a reliable, quick, and healthy side dish, this Everyday Cabbage Salad is one you will turn to again and again. It is easy, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Let's get started!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 15 minutes
- Made with simple pantry staples
- Crisp and refreshing texture
- Light, healthy, and naturally gluten-free
- Perfect for meal prep
- Pairs with almost any main dish
I have made this salad countless times when I needed something fresh on the table fast. It holds up beautifully in the fridge, and somehow tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Green cabbage: Choose a firm, heavy head with tight leaves for the best crunch. Slice it into thin ribbons for tender bites.
- Carrot: Adds natural sweetness and beautiful color.
- Olive oil: Use a good-quality olive oil for a smooth, clean finish.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed makes all the difference here.
If you need help slicing cabbage evenly, this cabbage cutting guide from The Spruce Eats is clear and beginner-friendly.
Instructions
- Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage. Slice it in half, core it, and cut into thin strips.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and glossy.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss well until everything is lightly coated.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This softens the cabbage slightly while keeping that lovely crunch.
The cabbage should still feel crisp, but the edges will look slightly glossy from the dressing. That is exactly what you want.
Pro Tips for Success
- Slice the cabbage as thin as possible for the best texture.
- If you prefer softer cabbage, gently massage it with the dressing for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust salt before serving. Cabbage needs seasoning to shine.
- Add herbs right before serving for the freshest flavor.
The first time I made this, I skipped the resting time and it tasted sharper. Giving it just a few minutes to settle makes the flavor round and balanced.
Storage and Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. No reheating needed.
Make Ahead & Freezing
You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. The flavors blend beautifully overnight.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture will become too soft once thawed.
Tips and Variations
- Add thinly sliced red onion for a sharper bite.
- Toss in sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for extra crunch.
- Mix in crumbled feta for a creamy, salty touch.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for more tang.
- Stir in chopped apple for a sweet and crisp twist.
FAQs
Avoid overdressing and store it in an airtight container. Add delicate toppings like nuts right before serving.
Yes, red cabbage works beautifully and adds vibrant color. It may have a slightly firmer texture.
Cabbage is low in calories and rich in fiber and vitamin C, making this a nourishing side dish.
📖 Recipe
Everyday Cabbage Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Goes with practically anything. Think of it like Coleslaw - minus the mayo dressing. Great with light foods like seafood, and refreshing with hearty foods like stews and roasts. Chop the cabbage and keep in the fridge with the dressing in a jar, lasts for up to a week! Can't-Stop-Eating-It-Delicious!
Ingredients
- Salad:
- 5 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage (or more green)
- 1 cup shredded carrot (or more cabbage)
- Dressing:
- ¼ cup cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable, canola, or light olive oil)
- 1 ½ - 2 tablespoon white sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Shake Dressing ingredients in a jar. Start with 1 ½ tablespoon sugar and adjust to taste.
- Place Salad ingredients in a large bowl.
- Pour over Dressing and toss well to combine.
- Set aside 20 minutes until cabbage reduces and becomes juicy, then serve.
Notes
Once dressed, the cabbage wilts and becomes like coleslaw and can be kept for 2 to 3 days. For storage, keep chopped cabbage and dressing separate in the fridge for up to a week. Variations: swap vinegars and add herbs or spices to suit Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, or Mediterranean flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150cal
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Everyday Cabbage Salad alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or simple baked potatoes. It is also perfect tucked into wraps or served next to sandwiches for lunch.
For a comforting dinner combination, try it with my Garlic Bread Rolls and a warm bowl of soup. The crisp freshness balances rich dishes beautifully.
Nutrition & Notes
Per serving (approximate):
Calories: 140 kcal
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 3 g
Recipe Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Skill Level: Easy
I love having this recipe in my back pocket because it proves that simple ingredients can create something bright and satisfying. It is fresh, crisp, and quietly dependable.
Reader Reviews
"So simple and refreshing. I make this every week now."
"Loved how light and crunchy it stayed even the next day."
If you try this Everyday Cabbage Salad, please leave a rating and comment below. I always love hearing how these everyday recipes become part of your routine.
Related Recipes
Looking for more easy sides?
- Easy Broccoli Bacon Salad Recipe
- Quick Easy Southern Bacon and Green Beans
- Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin
Everyday Cabbage Salad is the kind of recipe that makes healthy eating feel effortless. Crisp, tangy, and endlessly versatile, it is one you will reach for again and again.
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