Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with flavor and vibrant color? Look no further! This sweet and sour slaw recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or potlucks. It's a fantastic way to add a refreshing crunch and a tangy kick to any meal. Forget complicated recipes; this one is incredibly simple, yet delivers a delicious homemade taste that will impress your friends and family. Get ready to elevate your meal prep game with this easy recipe for a healthy and satisfying side.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Start by thinly slicing the green cabbage. A mandoline slicer is great for even slices, but a sharp knife works perfectly too. Shred the carrot and thinly slice the red onion. The finer you chop the vegetables, the better the slaw will absorb the dressing.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, sugar, vegetable oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, ginger, salt, and pepper until the sugar is dissolved. Make sure everything is well combined for an evenly distributed flavor.
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Combine and Toss: Add the sliced cabbage, shredded carrot, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste! The slaw will be even better if you chill it for a couple of hours or even overnight. Serve chilled as a delicious side dish to your favorite meals.
Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Slaw:
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter slaw, add a tablespoon or two more of sugar. Conversely, for a tarter slaw, reduce the sugar slightly.
- Add Some Crunch: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat. Feel free to experiment!
- Make it Ahead: This slaw is even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Rainbow Slaw: Add other colorful vegetables like shredded red cabbage, bell peppers, or shredded broccoli.
- Cranberry Slaw: Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries for a burst of tart sweetness.
- Asian-Inspired Slaw: Substitute rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar and add a teaspoon of sesame oil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 100-120 Fat: 5-7g Protein: 2-3g Carbohydrates: 15-20g Fiber: 2-3g
This sweet and sour slaw recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Its bright, fresh taste and satisfying crunch make it a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s easy to customize to your preferences. Enjoy!