Are you looking for a refreshing twist on traditional salads? Look no further than red cabbage! This vibrant, slightly sweet vegetable is packed with nutrients and can add a pop of color to any dish. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just need a quick lunch, these 18 tangy red cabbage salad recipes have got you covered.
From classic pairings like apple cider vinegar and walnuts to international flavors like sesame ginger and coconut lime, there’s something for every palate. Plus, with so many different textures and flavors at play, you’re sure to find a combination that suits your taste buds. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of red cabbage salads and share some of our favorite recipes to help you get started on your culinary journey.
Classic Tangy Red Cabbage Salad with Apple Cider Vinegar
This classic salad is a staple of Eastern European cuisine, featuring the natural sweetness of red cabbage balanced by the tanginess of apple cider vinegar. A simple yet flavorful side dish perfect for accompanying hearty meals or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or caraway seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5 minutes to help release its natural juices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and sugar until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Spicy Red Cabbage Salad with Jalapeños and Lime Dressing
Add a burst of flavor to your meal with this refreshing salad, combining the sweetness of red cabbage with the heat of jalapeños and the brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced red cabbage and jalapeños.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage Salad with Honey Mustard
Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage Salad with Honey Mustard: A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this salad combines the natural sweetness of red cabbage with a tangy honey mustard dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and apple cider vinegar.
2. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the cabbage to soften and develop its natural sweetness.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
7. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold salad.
Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Creamy Yogurt Dressing
This Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw is a perfect side dish or topping for your favorite meals. The creamy yogurt dressing adds a tangy and refreshing twist to the classic slaw recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Asian-Inspired Red Cabbage Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of red cabbage with the warmth of sesame and ginger, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, sesame oil, and garlic.
2. Massage the mixture with your hands for about 5 minutes, until the cabbage is slightly softened and the flavors are well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Beetroot Salad with Feta Cheese
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of beets, the tanginess of red cabbage, and the creaminess of feta cheese for a delightful and healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced red cabbage and grated beetroot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage-beet mixture, tossing gently to coat.
4. Crumble feta cheese over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required – just assemble and serve!
Refreshing Red Cabbage Salad with Orange and Mint
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant and flavorful combination of red cabbage, orange segments, and fresh mint leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and chopped mint leaves.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Arrange the orange segments on top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of red cabbage, nutty quinoa, and tangy lemon tahini dressing for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups shredded red cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon tahini
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, red cabbage, parsley, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, tahini, and garlic until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are already cooked)
Roasted Red Cabbage Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional salads, this roasted red cabbage salad is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized red cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the chopped red cabbage with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cabbage mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Toss the roasted cabbage with balsamic glaze, crumbled goat cheese (if using), and garnish with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Cabbage and Kale Salad with Cranberries and Almonds
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries, the earthiness of kale, and the crunch of almonds to create a perfect winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the red cabbage and kale.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
4. Stir in the cranberries and almonds.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Red Cabbage and Apple Salad with Walnuts and Blue Cheese
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of apples, the tanginess of blue cheese, and the crunch of walnuts, all on a bed of crisp red cabbage. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Braeburn work well)
– 1/2 cup of blue cheese crumbles (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and diced apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles and chopped walnuts over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Red Cabbage and Chickpea Salad with Cumin and Coriander
This vibrant salad combines the crunch of red cabbage, the creaminess of chickpeas, and the warmth of cumin and coriander spices. Perfect for a quick and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded red cabbage, chickpeas, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss until the ingredients are well combined and the cabbage is coated with the dressing.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Red Cabbage and Avocado Salad with Lime Cilantro Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of red cabbage and avocado with a zesty lime-cilantro dressing, perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and diced avocado.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro leaves and stems.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage-avocado mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Pear Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans
This refreshing salad brings together the sweetness of pears, the tanginess of goat cheese, and the crunch of pecans, all balanced by the earthy flavor of red cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced red cabbage and diced pears.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and olive oil. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
3. Crumble goat cheese over the salad and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Red Cabbage and Cucumber Salad with Dill and Sour Cream
This salad is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, making it a great side dish or light lunch. The combination of crunchy red cabbage, refreshing cucumber, and zesty dill will surely delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 8 oz sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the red cabbage and cucumber slices.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped dill and sour cream until well combined.
3. Pour the dill-sour cream mixture over the cabbage-cucumber mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Pineapple Salad with Coconut Lime Dressing
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal with this refreshing Red Cabbage and Pineapple Salad, elevated by a creamy Coconut Lime Dressing. This unique combination is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 head red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced red cabbage and pineapple chunks.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut flakes, lime juice, mayonnaise, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Radish Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
This salad combines the sweetness of red cabbage with the peppery flavor of radishes, all tied together with a zesty lemon herb dressing. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or as a side dish for your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 bunch of radishes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and radishes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped parsley.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Red Cabbage and Pomegranate Salad with Pistachios and Mint
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pomegranate seeds, the crunch of pistachios, and the earthiness of red cabbage, all tied together with a hint of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup pistachios, shelled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and pomegranate seeds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped pistachios and fresh mint leaves over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 18 tangy red cabbage recipes for every occasion! From classic combinations like apple cider vinegar and honey mustard, to international twists like sesame ginger dressing and coconut lime dressing, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a hearty main course, these salads are sure to impress. With ingredients like carrots, beets, quinoa, and more, you’ll find inspiration for a variety of cuisines and dietary needs.
