Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with flavor and vibrant color? Then look no further! Clearman's Red Cabbage Salad is the perfect addition to any meal, offering a delightful crunch and a refreshing tang that complements both light and hearty entrees. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and healthy dish, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a homemade cooking triumph.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Prep the Cabbage and Onion: Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, thinly slice the red cabbage and red onion. Thinly sliced vegetables will ensure even cooking and a better texture.
- Whisk the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should be emulsified, meaning all ingredients are nicely combined.
- Combine and Marinate: Add the sliced red cabbage and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Rest and Serve: Cover the bowl and let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly. The longer it marinates, the better it tastes! Serve chilled as a delicious side dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a beautiful pop of color and extra freshness.
Tips for the Best Red Cabbage Salad:
- Thinly Sliced is Key: The thinner you slice the cabbage and onion, the quicker they’ll absorb the dressing and the more tender they’ll become.
- Don't Over-Marinate: While marinating enhances the flavor, over-marinating can make the cabbage too soft. 30 minutes to an hour is ideal.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup or vinegar to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more maple syrup. If you like it tangier, add more vinegar.
- Get Creative with Add-ins: Experiment with other additions! Consider adding dried cranberries, toasted pecans, or crumbled bacon for extra texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Red Cabbage Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Hearty Red Cabbage Salad: Toss in some cooked quinoa or farro for a more substantial side dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is a great example of a healthy meal. The nutritional information will vary slightly based on the exact ingredients used, but a typical serving provides a good source of fiber and vitamins. A full nutritional breakdown requires using a nutritional calculator and inputting your specific ingredients.
This quick and easy red cabbage salad is a fantastic addition to any meal. It’s a healthy, delicious, and visually appealing side dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of red cabbage. Enjoy!