There’s a refreshing crunch that comes with every bite of this Crispy Cabbage Apple Salad, and it takes me right back to sunny picnics filled with laughter and great company. Picture this: the crisp, sweet apples mingle perfectly with finely sliced cabbage, while toasted walnuts add a delightful nuttiness. Topped with a sprinkle of savory parmesan cheese, this salad has quickly become my go-to crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re looking to brighten up a family dinner or impress friends at your next gathering, this is the dish that fits the bill—healthy, gluten-free, and oh-so-easy to whip up! With just a few fresh ingredients and a dressing that you can shake up in a jar, you’ll have a stunning salad that’s as vibrant as your weekend plans. Let’s dive into the delightful world of flavors and textures this salad offers!
What Makes Cabbage Apple Salad Irresistible?
Vibrant Colors: This salad is a feast for the eyes, with beautiful hues of green and red cabbage combined with the bright sweetness of apples.
Nutty Crunch: Toasted walnuts add depth and texture, creating a satisfying bite that keeps you coming back for more.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Endless Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or cheeses, making it versatile enough to suit any taste.
Healthier Choice: Packed with nutrients and gluten-free, this salad is guilt-free indulgence for the health-conscious. Enjoy these flavors on their own or serve with your favorite dish, like crusty panini rolls, for a complete meal!
Cabbage Apple Salad Ingredients
For the Salad Base
• Medium-head green/red cabbage (about 14oz/400gr) – Provides base structure and crunch; red cabbage adds beautiful color and nutritional benefits.
• Apples (2) – Adds sweetness and texture; try Gala, Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for the best flavor.
• Walnuts/Pecans (⅓ cup, toasted and chopped) – Offers nuttiness and healthy fats; pecans can be substituted for walnuts, or try hazelnuts for variety.
For the Dressing
• Extra virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons) – Acts as a base for the dressing, adding richness and depth of flavor.
• Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons) – Provides acidity to balance flavors, making each bite refreshing.
• Honey (2 teaspoons) – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.
• Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon) – Contributes tang and flavor depth; avoid English mustard as it is spicier.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances all flavors; adjust according to taste.
• Freshly cracked black pepper – Adds spice to taste, bringing out the salad’s vibrant flavors.
For the Garnish
• Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, shaved or ⅓ cup crumbled cheddar) – Adds savory notes and creaminess; replace with sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Enjoy this Cabbage Apple Salad as a refreshing dish that’s both healthy and quick to prepare!
How to Make Cabbage Apple Salad
- Slice the Cabbage: Begin by removing the outer leaves and core of the cabbage. Finely slice the segments using a knife or mandolin and place them in a large salad bowl.
- Prepare Apples: Quarter the apples, core them, and then slice or cube. Toss these beautifully sweet pieces into the bowl with the cabbage.
- Toast Walnuts: In a pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes until they become fragrant, then chop and add them to the salad (reserve some for garnishing).
- Make Dressing: In a jar, combine the dressing ingredients. Secure the lid and shake until well emulsified—this quick step ensures a perfectly blended flavor.
- Assemble Salad: Add half of the parmesan cheese to the salad bowl, pour over the dressing, and toss everything together until well combined. If needed, adjust the seasoning, then let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving, garnished with reserved walnuts and parmesan.
Optional: Sprinkle with additional freshly cracked black pepper for a spicy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Apple Salad
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To keep apples crisp, it’s best to add them fresh before serving.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for Cabbage Apple Salad due to the texture of the cabbage and apples. Enjoy fresh for the best experience!
Reheating: If you need to reheat any leftovers, use the microwave for just a few seconds to warm slightly, but keep in mind the salad is best enjoyed cold.
Prep Ahead: Prepare elements like the dressing and toasted nuts in advance to save time and enhance freshness when combining everything just before serving.
Cabbage Apple Salad Variations
Feel free to make this salad your own with these fun twists and substitutions that will delight your taste buds.
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Kale Substitute: Swap cabbage for chopped kale for a heartier base, adding a slightly peppery flavor.
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Protein Boost: Toss in cooked quinoa or diced grilled chicken to transform this salad into a more filling meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
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Different Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like pecans or hazelnuts, which will introduce new textures and flavors that make every bite exciting.
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Cheese Alternatives: Try feta or goat cheese instead of parmesan for a tangy, creamy twist that brings a Mediterranean flair to your salad.
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Fruit Variations: Mix in slices of pears or mandarin oranges for a fun burst of sweetness, balancing nicely with the tangy dressing.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to brighten the dressing and elevate the overall freshness of the salad.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that will fire up your palate.
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Herbal Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an aromatic experience that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Cabbage Apple Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can slice the cabbage and toast the walnuts up to 24 hours in advance—simply store the cabbage in an airtight container and the walnuts in a cool, dry place to maintain their crunch. Prepare the dressing ahead as well (refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 3 days). When you’re ready to serve, just chop the apples (to prevent browning, do this last), combine everything in a bowl, toss with the dressing, and garnish with parmesan. This way, you can enjoy a refreshing salad with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Crispy Cabbage Apple Salad?
Elevate your meal with perfect pairings for this delightful salad, bursting with fresh flavors and textures.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy and savory, grilled chicken complements the salad’s crunch and enhances its healthy profile.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy quinoa adds a nutty flavor while providing a hearty base that balances the crispness of the salad.
- Bruschetta: The bright, garlicky topping on crunchy toasted bread provides a delicious contrast to the fresh ingredients in the salad.
- Roast Pork Tenderloin: The rich flavors of tender pork pair beautifully, marrying well with the sweet and tangy notes of the salad.
- Creamy Hummus: A smooth and savory dip perfect for pairing as an appetizer, it contrasts nicely with the salad’s crunchiness.
Imagine serving your Cabbage Apple Salad alongside a vibrant platter of grilled chicken, inviting everyone to revel in the fresh tastes of summer. It’s the combination of flavors that turns any meal into a festive gathering!
Expert Tips for Cabbage Apple Salad
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Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh cabbage and crisp apples. The sweetness of apples like Honeycrisp elevates your Cabbage Apple Salad, ensuring a delightful taste.
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Toast Carefully: When toasting walnuts, keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Stir frequently for that perfect nutty flavor without the char.
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Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain the crunchiness, dress the salad only right before serving. This keeps the cabbage and apples from wilting!
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Adjust to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning. A little extra salt or pepper can make your salad sing, enhancing the flavors of each ingredient.
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Easy Substitutions: If you’re out of walnuts, use pecans or any favorite nuts. Each variation can bring a new twist to your Cabbage Apple Salad!
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Make Ahead: If preparing in advance, store the dressing and nuts separately. Combine everything when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
Cabbage Apple Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of apples work best for Cabbage Apple Salad?
I highly recommend using sweet varieties like Gala, Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith. Each of these apples adds a delightful crunch and natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cabbage.
How should I store Cabbage Apple Salad leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the freshness, I suggest adding the apples just before serving to prevent them from browning or getting mushy.
Can I freeze Cabbage Apple Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the high water content in cabbage and apples, which can result in a mushy texture upon thawing. Enjoy this salad fresh for the best experience!
What can I do if my walnuts burn while toasting?
If your walnuts start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat and stir them more frequently. You can also add a little bit of oil to the pan, which can sometimes help prevent them from burning. If they do burn, it’s best to discard them and start fresh, as burnt nuts can affect the entire salad’s flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cabbage Apple Salad?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free and can easily be adjusted for dietary needs. If you’re concerned about allergies, be mindful of nut substitutions and consult with individuals consuming the salad. You can swap walnuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
How can I prepare Cabbage Apple Salad in advance?
You can make this salad ahead of time by preparing the dressing and toasting the nuts separately. Keep the cabbage and apples stored in the fridge without the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This way, everything stays fresh and crisp for that perfect bite!
Crispy Cabbage Apple Salad for a Refreshing Crunchy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the Cabbage: Begin by removing the outer leaves and core of the cabbage. Finely slice the segments using a knife or mandolin and place them in a large salad bowl.
- Prepare Apples: Quarter the apples, core them, and then slice or cube. Toss these beautifully sweet pieces into the bowl with the cabbage.
- Toast Walnuts: In a pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes until they become fragrant, then chop and add them to the salad (reserve some for garnishing).
- Make Dressing: In a jar, combine the dressing ingredients. Secure the lid and shake until well emulsified.
- Assemble Salad: Add half of the parmesan cheese to the salad bowl, pour over the dressing, and toss everything together until well combined. If needed, adjust the seasoning, then let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving, garnished with reserved walnuts and parmesan.