Coleslaw Salad

Coleslaw salad is a popular choice worldwide, with a rich and varied history. This crunchy and refreshing salad has become a reliable companion for dishes like hamburgers or barbecued meats, loved by both adults and children. Its versatility makes it perfect for any meal, whether it's a summer picnic or a more sophisticated dinner. In this recipe, I will share my delicious version of Coleslaw, which combines tradition with a few surprise ingredients that give it an unmistakable taste.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- ½ medium cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, grated on the large grater
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 red Kapia pepper, sliced thinly lengthwise
- 1 green pepper, sliced thinly
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger (a surprise ingredient that perfectly complements the cabbage)
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 1 handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- 3-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise (ideally homemade)
- 2 tablespoons of yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (optional, for an extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables under cold running water. Finely chop the cabbage, grate the carrots on the large grater, and slice the peppers into thin strips. Chop the green onions finely. Make sure all the vegetables are cut evenly for a pleasant texture in the salad.

2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chopped cabbage, grated carrots, green onions, red pepper, and green pepper. Don't forget the grated ginger, which adds a note of flavor and a bit of spiciness to the salad.

3. Prepare the dressing: In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise (ideally homemade for an authentic taste) with the yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. If you want a thinner dressing, you can add a little olive oil.

4. Combine the salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the bowl and mix everything gently. Make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Adjust the taste with salt, pepper, or lemon, as preferred.

5. Chill and serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the flavors to blend and to achieve a more refreshing salad.

Chef's tip:

For an extra crunch, you can add some nuts or toasted seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds, when serving. These not only enhance the texture but also add an extra dose of nutrients. Additionally, if you want to try a vegetarian version, you can replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other vegetables? Sure! Coleslaw salad is very versatile. You can add beetroot, celery, or even apples for a sweet note.

- How do I store the salad? Coleslaw keeps well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. Make sure the dressing doesn't separate by mixing it again before serving.

- What does Coleslaw pair well with? This salad goes perfectly with barbecued foods, burgers, and also with chicken or fish dishes. It can also be used as a filling for sandwiches.

Nutritional benefits:

Coleslaw salad is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables used. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins K and C, while carrots provide beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. The yogurt in the dressing brings beneficial probiotics for digestion.

Personalized version:

If you're looking for a Coleslaw salad with a twist, try adding a bit of chili or crushed garlic to the dressing for a spicier taste. Another idea is to add fresh fruits, such as pineapple or mango, for a tropical salad.

Final note:

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Coleslaw salad is not only quick and easy but also a delicious way to add vegetables to your diet. Whether you serve it as a side dish or as a main course, this salad will surely become a family favorite. Taste, adjust, and above all, enjoy every bite!