Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Our Apple Red Cabbage Salad is the ultimate culinary adventure that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. With its stunning purple hues, crisp textures, and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Whether you're a health enthusiast, a salad lover, or someone looking to impress at the next potluck, this dish is your secret weapon to culinary greatness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups red cabbage, shredded
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the red cabbage thoroughly and remove any tough outer leaves. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, finely shred the cabbage into thin strips and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Carefully wash the apple and remove the core. Slice the apple thinly into delicate half-moon or julienne-style pieces, ensuring uniform thickness for even distribution in the salad.
- Peel the carrots and grate them using a box grater or food processor, creating fine, light shreds that will add color and texture to the salad.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and honey until the honey is completely dissolved, creating a tangy-sweet dressing base.
- Add the sliced apples, grated carrots, and raisins to the shredded red cabbage in the mixing bowl.
- Pour the vinegar-honey dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all components are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving. This brief resting time will enhance the overall taste profile.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Tips
- Slice your cabbage and apple as thinly as possible for the best texture and easier eating experience.
- For extra crunch, consider toasting some nuts like almonds or walnuts to sprinkle on top before serving.
- If you prefer a more acidic dressing, add an extra splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Use fresh, crisp apples for the best flavor and texture - Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work wonderfully.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- For a protein boost, add some grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn this into a complete meal.
- The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg