Cabbage salad with green apple and carrot

Cabbage salad with green apple and carrot: an explosion of freshness on your plate

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The cabbage salad with green apple and carrot is a simple yet extremely flavorful dish that brings a touch of vitality to your table. This recipe is perfect for warm summer days or as a side dish to various main courses. With a crunchy texture and refreshing taste, this salad will surely become one of your favorites.

A bit of history: Cabbage salads have been consumed for centuries, being an important source of vitamins and minerals. In many cultures, they are associated with digestive health and are often used as staple dishes in festive or everyday meals. The combination of cabbage with fruits, such as green apples, is a tradition that has evolved over time, bringing a note of sweetness and acidity that perfectly balances the flavors.

Ingredients:
- ½ green cabbage (about 300-400g)
- 2 green apples (or any tart apple)
- 1 carrot
- 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Mayonnaise (optional, 1-2 tablespoons)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the ingredients thoroughly. Make sure the cabbage and carrot are fresh, and the apples are crunchy, to give the salad a pleasant texture.

2. Cutting the cabbage: Take the cabbage and cut it in half. Remove the core and, using a sharp knife or a slicer, cut the cabbage into thin strips. If you prefer a softer salad, you can massage the cabbage with a little salt to soften its texture.

3. Grating: Peel the carrot and grate it. This will add a note of sweetness and color to the salad.

4. Apples: Peel the apples and, using the same grater, grate them. It is important to add lemon juice over the apples immediately after grating them to prevent oxidation and keep the vibrant color.

5. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrot, and apples. Add the squeezed lemon juice and salt. Mix the ingredients well to ensure that each strip of cabbage is well coated with the dressing.

6. Mayonnaise (optional): If you like mayonnaise, now is the time to incorporate it. Add one or two tablespoons of mayonnaise for a creamier texture and richer taste. Mix again to combine.

7. Serving: The salad is now ready! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld even better. It is fantastic alongside grilled meats, fish, or as an appetizer for a family dinner.

Helpful tips:
- Cabbage can be replaced with other greens, such as green beet or kale, to add variation.
- I recommend experimenting with different types of apples, each having a distinct taste that will influence the final salad.
- If you want an extra flavor boost, you can add chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for additional crunch.

Nutritional benefits: This salad is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, contributing to healthy digestion and strengthening the immune system. Green apples add antioxidants, while carrots are rich in beta-carotene, beneficial for eye health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, red cabbage will add vibrant color and a slightly different but delicious taste.

2. What can I add for extra flavor?
Fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, can add a fresh and aromatic taste.

3. How can I store the salad?
The salad can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 1-2 days. It is best consumed fresh, but the flavor will intensify.

This cabbage salad with green apple and carrot is not only a delicious dish but also a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a balanced and nutritious meal. I invite you to try it and choose your favorite variations!