The Most Delicious Cabbage, Carrot, and Apple Salad Recipe
April 12, 2024
source: Flickr
Hey there! Let me tell you about this one salad that has become a staple at our family gatherings and even in my everyday meal plan. It’s a cabbage, carrot, and apple salad that’s as refreshing as it sounds. I first stumbled upon this crunchy delight a few years ago when I was on a mission to jazz up our dinner sides. Ever since, it’s been a hit, and I’ve been whipping it up almost weekly!
Ingredients:
- 200-400 grams cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4-8 cups)
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 1 green apple, thinly sliced
- 1 spring onion, thinly sliced
- Dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I had just returned from a local farmers’ market with an assortment of fresh veggies and fruits. Among my haul were some particularly vibrant looking cabbages and carrots. At home, I found a green apple lying around — probably left over from my kids’ snack time. Light bulb moment! Why not throw them together into a salad?
I remembered a salad my grandma used to make that had cabbage in it, though not quite like this. Inspired by her love for mixing sweet and savory, I decided to add the apple for a bit of sweetness. The result? An absolute delight! The tangy lemon juice dressing I mixed in was the perfect touch to elevate the natural flavors.
Instructions
Making this salad is a breeze, which is perfect for my busy lifestyle. Here’s how I do it:
Prep the Veggies: I start by thinly slicing the cabbage, ensuring it’s fine enough to meld nicely with the other ingredients but still retains a bit of crunch. Then, I peel and shred the carrot. For the apple, I like to slice it thin enough to match the delicate texture of the cabbage.
Mixing It Up: In a large mixing bowl, I toss the sliced cabbage, shredded carrot, and apple slices together. I add thinly sliced spring onion for that mild kick, which really brings the flavors together.
Dressing: The dressing is super simple — just freshly squeezed lemon juice, a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sometimes, I whisk in a teaspoon of honey if I’m in the mood for extra sweetness. Pour this over the veggies and toss everything until well-coated.
Adding Herbs: If I have them on hand, I throw in some chopped dill or parsley. They add a fresh, herby flavor that complements the crispness of the apple and cabbage beautifully.
Let It Sit: I like to let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This little wait helps the flavors meld together wonderfully.
I first served this salad at my daughter’s birthday party. It was a gamble — serving something new to a group of picky eaters and discerning family members. To my surprise, it was a hit! Even my two kids, who’d rather eat pasta all day, asked for seconds. “Mom, can we have this tomorrow?” they said, and honestly, that was all the approval I needed.
Since then, this salad has made an appearance at almost every family gathering. It’s light, it’s healthy, and it adds a colorful touch to the table. Plus, it’s adaptable; sometimes I throw in nuts for added crunch or cranberries for a bit of tartness. It’s the perfect canvas for experimentation.
There’s so much to love about this salad. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You can whip it up in under 10 minutes, which is a lifesaver for a busy parent like me. It’s also super versatile. Hosting vegetarians? This salad’s a great fit. Need something light yet fulfilling? Just add some grilled chicken or tofu on the side, and you’re set!
Moreover, cabbage and carrots are not just tasty; they’re packed with nutrients. They keep you full longer without the guilt of calories — every parent’s dream!
I’m not even exaggerating when I say I could eat this salad almost daily. It’s that good! Plus, it’s a great way to ensure my family is getting their daily dose of veggies. Even on days when cooking feels like a chore, I can always count on this salad to lift my spirits — and my energy levels.
This salad isn’t just a family favorite, though. It’s also been a social butterfly! I’ve shared this recipe with friends, neighbors, and even my yoga class. Once, I brought it to a potluck, and by the end of the day, everyone was asking for the recipe. It’s always a little thrilling to see something so simple bring so much joy to others.
From that serendipitous afternoon when I first mixed cabbage, carrot, and apple in a bowl to countless family dinners and community gatherings, this salad has been a constant. Sometimes, the best recipes aren’t just about the food — they’re about the memories we make and the moments we share.
So, next time you’re in a salad rut, give this crunchy, zesty wonder a try. Who knows? It might just become your go-to as well!