Vegetable salad

Crispy Vegetable Salad with Cabbage, Carrots, and Dill Flavor

If you're looking for a simple and healthy recipe that brings a splash of color and freshness to your diet, you've come to the right place! This vegetable salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, perfect for energizing you throughout the day. Whether you serve it as a side dish or as a light main course, this salad will win you over with every bite. Its preparation is quick and easy, and the ingredients are accessible and full of flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 small white cabbage
- 1 red onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 celery root
- A bunch of fresh dill
- 2-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with honey (or to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Brief history of the recipe

Vegetable salads are universal dishes found in various forms and combinations around the world. They are appreciated not only for their taste but also for the nutritional benefits they offer. Each ingredient brings its own story, and the combination of cabbage, carrots, and celery is a classic choice with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. These vegetables are not only nutritious but also excellent for digestion.

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Slice the red onion into thin strips (julienne) and place it in a bowl. Sprinkle a little salt over it and add apple cider vinegar with honey. This will help soften the onion and reduce its strong flavor.

2. Cutting the cabbage: Meanwhile, take the white cabbage and slice it into very thin strips (fideluță). Add the cabbage to the same bowl with the onion. Massage the cabbage with a little salt to release its juices and make it crisper.

3. Grating the carrots and celery: Use a grater to grate the carrots and celery. These vegetables will add a sweet note and a crunchy texture to your salad.

4. Chopping the dill: Wash the dill well and chop it finely. This will add a fresh aroma and intense flavor to the salad.

5. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables: cabbage, onion, carrot, celery, and dill. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

6. Adding seasonings: Taste the salad and add salt, apple cider vinegar with honey, and, if desired, extra virgin olive oil. The oil will add a richness and improve the texture of the salad. Mix again to combine all the ingredients.

7. Letting it rest: Allow the salad to sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This step is essential as it helps meld the flavors and soften the vegetables.

Practical tips

- Choosing ingredients: Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables for optimal taste. The cabbage should be firm and crisp, and the carrots should be sweet and juicy.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes to diversify the salad. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of vinegar or add sunflower seeds or nuts for extra crunch.
- Serving: This salad is delicious alongside grilled meats, fish, or even as a filling in sandwiches. You can also serve it as a side dish to Asian dishes to bring a contrast of textures.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is packed with vitamins and minerals. White cabbage contains vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which contribute to immune system health. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which supports eye health, while celery has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in water, making it perfect for hydration.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of cabbage? Yes, you can experiment with red cabbage or kale to add a splash of color and a different flavor.
- How can I store the salad? It is recommended to consume the salad immediately after preparation to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. If you wish to store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but note that the vegetables may become softer after a few hours.

Conclusion

This recipe for vegetable salad with cabbage, carrots, and dill is not only simple but also full of flavors and textures. It is an excellent choice for a healthy and balanced diet, and preparing it can be a pleasant and relaxing experience. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its deliciousness! Enjoy your meal!