Cabbage Apple Salad

Every family gathering has that one dish that everyone looks forward to, and for me, it’s the Cabbage Apple Salad. I remember the first time I tasted it at a picnic in the park. The freshness of the crunchy cabbage combined with the sweet and tart apples was a revelation. The vibrant colors and textures made it as much a feast for the eyes as it was for the palate. It’s the kind of salad that brightens up any table and makes you feel good with every bite. Whether enjoyed on a sunny day or as a refreshing side during a cozy dinner, Cabbage Apple Salad has a special place in my heart. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that dance together in perfect harmony.

What You’ll Need for Cabbage Apple Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a delicious Cabbage Apple Salad. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. The crunchiness of cabbage and kale, the sweetness of apples, and the tangy burst of dried cranberries work together beautifully. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to impress your guests.

• 2/3 head cabbage: This forms the crisp base of your salad, providing a sturdy texture.
• 2 small Granny Smith apples: Their sweet-tart flavor brightens the dish, making each bite refreshing.
• 5 oz. baby kale: This adds a nutrient boost and a subtle earthiness.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries: They offer a sweet contrast and chewy texture that complements the crunch of the cabbage.
• 1/2 cup shelled pistachios: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

Step by Step Instructions for Cabbage Apple Salad

Making Cabbage Apple Salad is an enjoyable process that doesn’t require culinary expertise. Each step brings you closer to a beautiful and delicious dish that you can’t wait to share. Let’s dive into the instructions!

1. Start by peeling the Granny Smith apples. Use an Apple Corer and Slicer to remove the core effectively. After that, cut the apple into slices lengthwise and chop them into bite-sized chunks. This will ensure the apples mix well with the other ingredients.

2. Next, take the cabbage and slice it into thin pieces. A Mandoline Slicer helps achieve uniform thinness. Once sliced, chop the cabbage into short strips. This technique enhances the salad’s texture and makes it easier to eat.

3. For the baby kale, remove any tough stems. You can wash the kale in a salad spinner to ensure it’s clean and ready to go. This green will add another layer of flavor and nutrition.

4. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, your choice of sweetener, salt, pepper, and black sesame seeds. This dressing is the heart of the salad, bringing all the flavors together.

5. Now, take a large bowl and add the sliced and chopped cabbage. Toss it with the dressing until every piece is coated. This step is crucial for ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

6. Add the chopped apples and baby kale to the bowl. Toss everything together gently to combine, ensuring the apples and kale are evenly distributed among the cabbage.

7. Next, sprinkle in most of the dried cranberries and pistachios. Toss them with the salad to add a delightful crunch and sweetness.

8. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. For a beautiful presentation, top it with the reserved dried cranberries and pistachios. This not only looks appealing but also enhances the texture.

9. Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. You can also cover and refrigerate it for a little while if you prefer a chilled experience.

10. Feel free to experiment with variations. You can try adding different nuts or dried fruits to customize your Cabbage Apple Salad to your liking.

Make It Your Own

There are countless ways to customize Cabbage Apple Salad to suit your palate and preferences. Here are some tips to help you make this recipe your own:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within two days for optimal freshness.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the cabbage and apples can become mushy.
• Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like carrots or celery for added crunch and flavor.
• Nut Allergies: If you have nut allergies, simply omit pistachios and try sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
• Dressings: Experiment with different dressings such as a yogurt-based one for a creamier texture.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal or serve alongside barbecued dishes for a fresh contrast.

Serving Ideas for Cabbage Apple Salad

Finding the perfect moments to serve this Cabbage Apple Salad can enhance your dining experience. Let’s explore some delightful ways to enjoy this dish:

• Perfect Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or burgers to create a balanced meal.
• Lunch Option: Enjoy it as a standalone lunch, topped with protein like chickpeas or shredded chicken for added heartiness.
• Picnics and Potlucks: This salad is perfect for sharing at outdoor gatherings, bringing a refreshing twist to any potluck spread.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Incorporate it into your Thanksgiving or holiday dinner as a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes.
• Storage Tips: If making ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy this salad during the fall to celebrate the harvest of apples and cabbage.

FAQ

Conclusion

Cabbage Apple Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can brighten any table. The combination of crisp cabbage, sweet apples, and crunchy nuts makes it a must-try recipe for your next gathering. I encourage you to give it a whirl and enjoy the freshness it brings to your meals. It’s a fun, versatile dish that you can adapt and make your own!

Cabbage Apple Salad

The ultimate crunch with a sweet twist! Cabbage Apple Salad combines the freshness of cabbage and apples, resulting in a vibrant and healthy dish perfect for any occasion. This easy weeknight salad will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!

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Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads, Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2/3 head head Cabbage thinly sliced and chopped into short strips
• 2 small Granny Smith Apples peeled and chopped
• 5 oz Baby Kale stems removed and washed
• 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries preferably low-sugar
• 1/2 cup Shelled Pistachios

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Peel the apple and cut away the core. I used an Apple Corer and Slicer for this.
2. Cut the apple into slices lengthwise; then chop the slices into chunks.
3. Slice the cabbage into thin slices, then chop to make short strips. We used a Mandoline Slicer to cut the cabbage.
4. Pull off stems from the baby kale (or not; your choice) and wash kale in salad spinner if it needs it.
5. Whisk together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, sweetener, salt, pepper, and black sesame seeds (or poppy seeds) to make the dressing.
6. Put the sliced and chopped cabbage in a large bowl and toss with the dressing. Add the chopped apples and baby kale and toss again.
7. Then add most of the dried cranberries and pistachios and toss again.
8. Put the salad into a serving bowl and top with the reserved dried cranberries and pistachios. Serve right away.
9. I think there are endless variations of dried fruit and nuts that would be good in this salad; have fun experimenting!

Notes

Storage tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.