Are you ready to discover a delightful dish that will add a burst of flavor and crunch to your meals? Introducing Aunt Virginia's Cabbage Salad—a classic American recipe that’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly refreshing! With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a vibrant salad that combines the crispness of fresh cabbage and carrots with a creamy dressing that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or as a light side dish, this salad is sure to impress your guests. Don't miss out on the chance to elevate your salad game—read on for the full recipe and tips to make it truly unforgettable!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the cabbage thoroughly under cool running water. Remove any damaged outer leaves and core the cabbage.
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shred the cabbage into thin, uniform strips. Aim for pieces approximately 1/4 inch wide for the best texture.
- Peel the carrot and use a box grater or food processor to grate it into fine, thin shreds.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrot. Toss gently to distribute the carrot evenly throughout the cabbage.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Use salad tongs or two large spoons to thoroughly coat all the vegetables with the dressing.
- If using sunflower seeds, sprinkle them over the salad and gently fold them into the mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing and ensure even coating.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, select a small head of cabbage that feels firm and heavy. Look for vibrant green leaves without any blemishes.
- Shred with Precision: When shredding the cabbage, aim for uniform strips about 1/4 inch wide. This ensures even dressing coverage and a pleasant crunch in every bite.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. If you like it tangier, add a bit more apple cider vinegar; if you prefer it sweeter, increase the sugar slightly.
- Add Crunch: If you want to take your salad to the next level, consider toasting the sunflower seeds before adding them. This will enhance their flavor and give your salad an extra crunch.
- Chill for Flavor: Letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just give it a quick toss before serving to refresh the dressing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
