Discover a vibrant and utterly delicious twist on traditional side dishes with this incredible Red Cabbage Salad. Combining crisp texture with sweet, tangy, and savory notes, it offers an unexpectedly delightful culinary experience that will captivate your taste buds.

If you’re a devoted fan of cabbage, you absolutely must explore more of our unique cabbage recipes. For a creamy and savory option, try this Bacon Blue Cheese Coleslaw, or stick to the classics with our Homemade Coleslaw. Each offers a distinct flavor profile, but none quite compare to the vibrant simplicity and complex taste of this Red Cabbage Salad.

An Unforgettable Red Cabbage Salad: Sweet, Savory, and Simply Irresistible

Sometimes, a recipe crosses your path that truly changes your perception of what a simple side dish can be. This Red Cabbage Salad is precisely one of those culinary revelations. While red cabbage might not be the first ingredient that springs to mind for an exciting new salad, I urge you to set aside any preconceptions and give this dish a chance. Trust me on this one – it’s a game-changer.

It’s natural to scroll past cabbage salads on social media, seeking out more glamorous or trendy options. But every so often, you stumble upon a hidden gem that exceeds all expectations. That’s exactly what happened when I first discovered this recipe. I had some leftover red cabbage that needed using up, and in my quest for innovative ways to prepare it, I found a recipe that combined ingredients I already adored. I thought, “Surely, this will make a decent side for dinner.” Little did I know, I was about to fall head over heels for this unique blend of flavors and textures.

From the very first bite, I was completely captivated. The satisfying crunch of the thinly shredded red cabbage provided the perfect base, beautifully contrasted by the delightful sweetness and chewiness of golden raisins. Then, the bold, pungent notes of crumbled blue cheese emerged, tying all the elements together with an incredible depth of flavor. The combination was nothing short of addictive. I found myself unable to stop reaching for more, a true testament to its unexpected deliciousness.

The experience was so profound that I decided to recreate it the very next day – this time, with the intention of sharing it with all of you. What started as an experiment to use up ingredients quickly became a blog-worthy sensation. I devoured that entire second batch, and even months later, the craving for this extraordinary red cabbage salad lingers. It has cemented its place as a go-to dish in my culinary repertoire.

Why This Red Cabbage Salad Will Be Your New Favorite Side

This salad isn’t just another side; it’s a symphony of contrasting elements that work in perfect harmony. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making it again and again:

• Unmatched Texture: The crispness of fresh red cabbage provides a delightful crunch that many salads lack.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: You get a wonderful interplay of sweetness from the raisins, tanginess from the balsamic vinegar, and a savory punch from the blue cheese.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: Despite its gourmet taste, this salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant purple hue of the red cabbage, speckled with golden raisins and white blue cheese crumbles, makes for an eye-catching presentation.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutrient-rich red cabbage, healthy fats from olive oil and pecans, and natural sweetness, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

While my husband, perhaps not being as fervent a side-dish enthusiast as myself, didn’t share my exact level of obsession, he still enjoyed it. But for me, this is a salad I could happily eat once a week, all year round. It’s particularly fantastic during the colder months when fresh, seasonal produce can be scarce, offering a burst of color and flavor when you need it most. This isn’t just a winter salad; it’s a year-round delight that brings vibrancy to any meal.

Key Ingredients for Your Red Cabbage Salad

The magic of this red cabbage salad lies in its carefully selected, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the overall flavor and texture profile. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this salad truly shine:

• Red Cabbage: The star of the show. Choose a firm, dense head of red cabbage. Shred it very thinly, either with a sharp knife, a mandoline, or a food processor, to ensure maximum crispness and tenderness in every bite. Red cabbage is not only beautiful but also packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans add a wonderful nutty flavor and another layer of satisfying crunch. Toasting them briefly in a dry pan enhances their aroma and deepens their flavor. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or even almonds can be a suitable substitute, though pecans offer a unique buttery note.
• Golden Raisins: These provide bursts of natural sweetness and a delightful chewiness that complements the crunch of the cabbage. Their golden hue also adds visual appeal. If you only have dark raisins, they will work too, but golden raisins tend to be slightly plumper and fruitier.
• Crumbled Blue Cheese: This is where the savory and tangy “kick” comes in. The sharp, salty, and creamy notes of blue cheese cut through the sweetness of the raisins and the richness of the pecans, adding a complex depth that elevates the entire dish. Use a good quality blue cheese for the best results.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil forms the base of the simple yet effective dressing, binding all the ingredients together with its fruity, peppery notes.
• Balsamic Vinegar: The balsamic vinegar introduces a crucial tangy and slightly sweet acidity, balancing the richness of the cheese and pecans and brightening the overall flavor of the salad.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing all the other flavors and bringing them into perfect harmony.

Red Cabbage Salad

Rated 5 out of 5 stars from 1 vote

Author:
Deborah Harroun

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Total Time:
15 minutes

Servings:
4 servings as a side dish

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisine:
American

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A different take on a cabbage side dish, this Red Cabbage Salad combines crunchy, sweet, tangy and salty for an unexpectedly different salad.

Ingredients

• 1/4 head of red cabbage, shredded
• 1/3 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
• 1/3 cup golden raisins
• 1-2 oz crumbled blue cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the thinly shredded red cabbage, toasted and chopped pecans, sweet golden raisins, and crumbled blue cheese. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the cabbage and other ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing.
3. Season the salad generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed, tasting along the way to achieve your desired flavor balance. Serve immediately for best crunch, or let it sit for a few minutes for flavors to meld.

Recipe Notes:

Source: Slate

Tips for Success & Variations for Your Red Cabbage Salad

Making this salad is straightforward, but a few tips can elevate it from good to absolutely fantastic:

• Shredding is Key: The thinner you shred the red cabbage, the more tender and pleasant the texture will be. A mandoline slicer is excellent for achieving uniform, thin ribbons, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work just as well.
• Toasted Pecans: Don’t skip toasting the pecans! It brings out their natural oils and nutty flavor, adding a crucial layer of depth to the salad. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or lightly toast in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your salad before serving. The amount of salt, pepper, and even the blue cheese can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a stronger tang, add a tiny bit more balsamic vinegar.
• Make Ahead (Almost): This salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the cabbage’s crispness. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Shred the cabbage, toast the pecans, and have your raisins and blue cheese ready. Store them separately and combine just before serving. This ensures the cabbage remains wonderfully crisp.

Flavorful Variations & Substitutions:

• Nut Alternatives: If pecans aren’t available, walnuts, slivered almonds, or even roasted cashews would make excellent crunchy additions.
• Cheese Swaps: Not a fan of blue cheese? Feta cheese offers a similar salty tang, or a crumbled goat cheese could provide a creamier, milder counterpoint. For a less pungent flavor, consider a sharp white cheddar.
• Dried Fruit Options: While golden raisins are fantastic, dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots could also add a lovely sweetness and chew.
• Add Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped, can add a refreshing herbaceous note.
• Protein Boost: Turn this side dish into a light meal by adding grilled chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Dressing Enhancements: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of Dijon mustard to the olive oil and balsamic vinegar mixture, or a tiny dash of maple syrup for added sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Your Vibrant Salad

This Red Cabbage Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses. Its bright, tangy flavors and satisfying crunch make it a perfect accompaniment to rich or hearty meals:

• Roasted Meats: Serve alongside roasted chicken, pork loin, or beef for a refreshing contrast.
• Grilled Dishes: It’s an excellent companion to grilled fish, steak, or sausages, providing a fresh element to balance the smoky flavors.
• Holiday Feasts: Its vibrant color and unique flavor make it a standout addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners.
• Weeknight Meals: Elevate a simple meal like baked salmon or pan-fried chicken breast with this easy-to-prepare side.
• Vegetarian Fare: Pair it with lentil soup, a hearty bean burger, or roasted root vegetables for a complete and satisfying vegetarian meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Red Cabbage

Beyond its incredible taste and texture, red cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse. Incorporating this salad into your diet offers numerous health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Red cabbage gets its vibrant color from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
• High in Vitamin C: A fantastic source of Vitamin C, essential for immune function, skin health, and acting as an antioxidant.
• Good Source of Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health.
• Fiber-Packed: Contributes to digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
• Low in Calories: It’s a nutrient-dense vegetable, meaning you get a lot of nutrients for very few calories, making it excellent for weight management.

So, not only is this Red Cabbage Salad incredibly delicious, but it also contributes significantly to a healthy and balanced diet. It’s a win-win!

More Delicious Side Dish Salads You’ll Love:

Zucchini and Tomato Salad Recipe
Broccoli Salad
Oriental Pasta Salad
Antipasto Salad Recipe
Sweet Potato Salad with Bacon

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