White cabbage salad with vegetables

Fresh White Cabbage Salad with Vegetables - a Tasty and Healthy Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a fresh, crunchy salad bursting with flavors and vibrant colors? The white cabbage salad with vegetables is a simple yet delicious recipe that can be served as a side dish or a refreshing appetizer. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days, but you can enjoy it anytime you crave a light and healthy meal.

The history of cabbage salad is quite fascinating. Cabbage is a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its numerous nutritional benefits. It is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Cabbage salad has been consumed for centuries as a way to preserve vegetables during the winter, but today it is often prepared fresh, adding a revitalizing taste to your meal.

Ingredients:

1 small white cabbage
1 medium onion
1 carrot
2 tomatoes
2 bell peppers (preferably in different colors for a vibrant look)
1 bunch of fresh parsley
3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
2-3 tablespoons of vinegar (preferably wine or balsamic for a more complex flavor)
salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by thoroughly washing the white cabbage under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities or pesticides. Once washed, cut the cabbage in half and remove the core. Then, use a grater or a sharp knife to slice the cabbage into thin strips. If you prefer a finer texture, you can chop it finely.

2. Carrot and vegetables: Peel the carrot and grate it. It’s important to choose a fresh carrot, as it will add natural sweetness to your salad. Chop the onion finely – if you prefer a milder taste, you can soak it in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad. Remove the seeds from the bell peppers and cut them into small cubes. The tomatoes can be sliced or diced, depending on your preference.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrot, onion, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Add the chopped parsley, which provides a fresh and aromatic flavor. Mix all the ingredients well to ensure they blend harmoniously.

4. Seasoning: Now comes the magic part! Add the olive oil and vinegar, then sprinkle with salt to taste. Toss the salad again to evenly distribute the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a tangier flavor, feel free to add a little more vinegar.

5. Serving: The white cabbage salad with vegetables is best served immediately, but you can refrigerate it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. A creative idea is to serve the salad in cabbage leaves, which adds a decorative touch and a rustic note.

Helpful Tips:

- You can add various ingredients to your salad to give it a personal twist. For example, slices of avocado or Kalamata olives add a Mediterranean flair, while sunflower seeds or toasted nuts provide an extra crunch.
- If you want to keep the salad for the next day, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunchy texture of the vegetables.
- This salad pairs perfectly with grilled dishes, such as chicken or fish, but can also be served alongside a sandwich or wrap for a light and healthy lunch.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This salad is an excellent nutritional choice, containing about 150 calories per serving. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while cabbage provides a consistent source of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, extra virgin olive oil is a good source of healthy fats, essential for heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different vegetables like cucumbers, radishes, or even cilantro, based on your preferences.

2. How can I make the salad more filling?
For a heartier salad, add proteins like tuna, cooked chicken, or feta cheese.

3. Can the salad be stored in the refrigerator?
Yes, but it’s better to keep the dressing separate to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

4. What other dishes does this salad pair well with?
Cabbage salad goes excellently with grilled dishes, pizza, or even as a side dish with pasta meals.

This white cabbage salad with vegetables is more than just a simple recipe – it’s an explosion of flavors and a way to bring a touch of freshness to every meal. Give it a try and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!