Oriental-style vegetable salad

Refreshing Cabbage Salad with Flavorful Dressing

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

I invite you to discover a quick and delicious salad, full of freshness and vitamins. This salad with cabbage, carrots, and a flavorful dressing will delight you with its vibrant taste and contrasting textures. It is an excellent choice for light lunches or to accompany your favorite dishes for dinner. Additionally, it is a vegetarian recipe and a perfect option for fasting days.

A bit of history
Salads have been consumed since ancient times, being an excellent way to combine fresh vegetables with various flavors. Over time, countless recipes have developed, each with its own specifics, but the essence has remained the same: celebrating fresh ingredients. This cabbage salad is inspired by Eastern culinary traditions, where vegetables are often combined with intense dressings, bringing an explosion of flavors.

Ingredients
For the salad:
- 1 small cabbage, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- 50 g roasted peanuts, roughly ground

For the dressing:
- Zest of 1 lime, plus 1-2 tablespoons of juice
- 3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 chili pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- A pinch of sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation
1. Start by preparing the salad ingredients. Finely chop the cabbage and place it in a large bowl. Make sure the cabbage is fresh and crunchy, as the texture is essential for this recipe.

2. Add the diced red bell pepper, grated carrots, and sliced red onion. These ingredients not only bring color but also a perfect combination of flavors.

3. In a small bowl, add the lime zest and lime juice, sunflower oil, chopped chili pepper, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix the dressing ingredients well. Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preferences.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well, ensuring that all ingredients combine harmoniously. It is important not to let the salad sit too long before serving, as the cabbage will lose its crunch.

5. Finally, add the roughly ground roasted peanuts. They will add extra crunch and a special flavor to your salad.

6. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its freshness and flavors. It is delicious both as a main dish and as a side for various meals.

Useful tips
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can also include a few slices of mango or pineapple for a tropical taste.
- You can replace sunflower oil with olive oil for a healthier option.
- If you prefer spicier salads, you can add more chili pepper or even a few drops of chili sauce.

Nutritional benefits
This salad is an excellent source of vitamin C, thanks to the fresh ingredients. Cabbage is rich in fiber, while carrots contain beta-carotene, an important antioxidant. Peanuts add protein and healthy fats, making this salad a nutritious choice.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use red cabbage instead of white cabbage?
Yes, you can use red cabbage for a more colorful appearance and a slightly different taste.

2. How can I make the dressing creamier?
You can add a tablespoon of natural yogurt or tahini to achieve a creamier texture.

3. What other ingredients could I add?
You can add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even dried fruits for a sweet contrast.

Recipes or drinks that pair well
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or baked fish. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing lemonade or a fruit tea for a complete and healthy meal.

Personal note
I love serving this salad at parties or gatherings with friends. It is a dish that always brings a smile to the faces of those who taste it. So don’t hesitate to prepare it for your next occasion!

In conclusion, this quick and easy salad will surely become one of your favorite recipes. Enjoy every bite and savor the benefits of fresh ingredients. Bon appétit!