Crispy Cabbage Salad Topped with a Dressing That Is Both Sweet and Sour

If you’re looking for a vibrant, refreshing salad that offers a delightful crunch and a tantalizing blend of flavors, look no further than this Crispy Cabbage Salad. This salad is not just a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors but also a delightful dance of textures and tastes. The star of the show is the crispy cabbage, which provides a satisfying crunch, paired with a dressing that masterfully balances sweet and sour notes.

Perfect for a light lunch, a zesty side dish, or a potluck favorite, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the details of making this irresistible salad!

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 small head of green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 small head of red cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 large carrots, peeled and julienned
• 1 cup snap peas, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced radishes
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts or cashews, coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by finely shredding both the green and red cabbages. A sharp knife or a mandoline slicer works best for achieving thin, uniform strips. Place the shredded cabbages in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Crunch: Peel and julienne the carrots to add a vibrant pop of color and crunch. Thinly slice the snap peas and radishes, then add them to the bowl with the cabbages.
3. Herbs and Nuts: Chop the fresh cilantro and mint, then sprinkle them over the vegetable mixture. For added texture and a nutty flavor, include the coarsely chopped roasted peanuts or cashews. Toasted sesame seeds add an extra layer of flavor and crunch—toss them in as well.
4. Mixing the Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together to combine evenly. Set the salad aside while you prepare the dressing.
5. Making the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and sesame oil. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic for an aromatic kick. If you prefer a bit of heat, incorporate the crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the prepared salad. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated with the dressing. For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Conclusion:

This Crispy Cabbage Salad with its sweet and sour dressing is a true celebration of textures and flavors. The combination of crisp cabbage, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy-sweet dressing creates a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it at a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a festive gathering, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The versatility of this recipe allows for modifications based on personal preferences or seasonal ingredients, making it a go-to favorite in any kitchen. Enjoy the crunch and the zesty flavor explosion that comes with every bite

Author : Marie-claude