Cabbage Salad with Citrus Dressing and Radishes – Crisp, Zesty & Refreshing

Looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish to brighten up your meal? The Cabbage Salad with Citrus Dressing and Radishes is exactly what you need! Bursting with color and flavor, this salad combines the crunchy goodness of green and red cabbage, the tang of citrus, and the crispness of radishes, all dressed in a zesty, creamy dressing. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at your next barbecue or as a light lunch, this salad is guaranteed to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the recipe, explain the health benefits of the ingredients, and provide tips for making this dish your new go-to salad.

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Why Choose Cabbage Salad?

Health Benefits of Cabbage

Cabbage is not only affordable and easy to find, but it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s an excellent source of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and proper blood clotting. Cabbage also provides a good amount of vitamin C, which is vital for a healthy immune system and skin health. Additionally, cabbage is high in fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full for longer periods.

Radishes: A Crunchy, Nutritious Addition

Radishes are often overlooked, but these vibrant vegetables pack a punch in terms of nutrients. Rich in antioxidants, radishes help combat inflammation and support liver health. They also offer a significant amount of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, making them an excellent choice for overall health and wellness.

The Power of Fresh Citrus

The citrus dressing in this salad brings a refreshing tang that complements the cabbage and radishes perfectly. Citrus fruits like lemons and limes are high in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin. They also help in digestion, making them the perfect addition to this crunchy, flavorful salad.

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Ingredients Overview

To create this delicious Cabbage Salad with Citrus Dressing and Radishes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• ½ head green cabbage (about 4 cups): Provides the base for the salad with its crunchy texture and mild flavor.
• ½ head red cabbage (about 4 cups): Adds vibrant color and additional nutrients, including anthocyanins.
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil: A healthy fat that adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
• ¼ cup fresh lemon and/or lime juice: Brings a bright, zesty flavor to the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds an extra citrusy punch to the dressing.
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated: Adds aromatic depth to the dressing.
• 1 large shallot, minced (about 2 tablespoons): Provides a mild onion flavor with a hint of sweetness.
• 1 egg yolk: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon creamy Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a bit of tang and creaminess.
• ½ teaspoon coarse salt: Enhances the flavors of the dressing and salad.
• ½ cup fresh parsley and cilantro leaves: Adds fresh herbal notes and brightens up the dish.
• 6 radishes, thinly sliced: Provides crunch, color, and a peppery bite.
• Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing radishes: Lightly coats the radishes and enhances their flavor.

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Cabbage

Start by slicing both the green and red cabbage into thin ribbons, about ½ inch in width. Discard the tough stems and core. Combine the sliced cabbage in a large salad bowl. This mixture of green and red cabbage adds a great contrast in color and a variety of textures.

2. Make the Citrus Dressing

In a jar with a lid, combine ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, lemon/lime juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, minced shallot, egg yolk, and Dijon mustard. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth. This will take about 20-30 seconds of shaking. The result is a tangy, creamy dressing that will coat the cabbage beautifully.

3. Dress the Cabbage

Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the cabbage. Add ½ teaspoon coarse salt to enhance the flavor and toss the cabbage thoroughly to ensure it is well-coated with the dressing. The cabbage will start to soften slightly as it absorbs the dressing, which will make it more tender.

4. Add Fresh Herbs

Once the cabbage is dressed, sprinkle the fresh parsley and cilantro leaves over the salad. These herbs not only add a burst of color but also introduce fresh, vibrant flavors that complement the citrus dressing.

5. Slice the Radishes

Thinly slice the radishes and arrange them on top of the cabbage mixture. The radishes add a lovely crunch and a peppery bite, making each mouthful a delightful contrast of textures. Brush the radish slices lightly with extra-virgin olive oil to enhance their flavor and give them a glistening finish.

6. Serve or Chill

Once the salad is assembled, you can serve it immediately. However, for the best flavor, refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This will give the cabbage time to absorb the dressing and make the salad even more flavorful.

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Tips for Customizing Your Cabbage Salad

While the classic version of this salad is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize it based on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen.

Add Protein

If you’d like to turn this salad into a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu. These additions will not only boost the nutritional value but also make the salad more filling.

Spice It Up

For those who love a little heat, try adding some finely diced chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing. This will give the salad an exciting kick that balances out the freshness of the cabbage and citrus.

Use Different Herbs

While parsley and cilantro are the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil, mint, or dill. These herbs will bring their own unique flavors to the dish, making it even more personalized.

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Health Benefits of Cabbage Salad with Citrus Dressing and Radishes

Supports Digestion

This salad is an excellent choice for digestive health. The fiber content from the cabbage and radishes helps promote regular bowel movements, while the citrus in the dressing aids digestion and helps the body absorb nutrients more efficiently.

Boosts Immunity

Thanks to the abundance of vitamin C from the lemon, lime, and radishes, this salad is a great immune booster. Vitamin C is essential for fighting off colds, flu, and infections, and it also supports the production of collagen, which helps keep your skin healthy and youthful.

Rich in Antioxidants

The colorful vegetables in this salad, including red cabbage and radishes, are rich in antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and prevent chronic diseases.

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FAQs About Cabbage Salad with Citrus Dressing and Radishes

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! This salad can be prepared up to 2 hours in advance. In fact, letting it sit in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more delicious.

Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: The recipe includes an egg yolk in the dressing. If you’re looking for a vegan version, simply substitute the egg yolk with a tablespoon of tahini or use a flax egg instead.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
A: While you can use pre-shredded cabbage for convenience, fresh cabbage has a better texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, however, pre-shredded cabbage will work just fine.

Q: Can I substitute the citrus in the dressing?
A: You can experiment with different citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits to create a unique twist. However, lemon and lime offer the perfect balance of tartness and zest for this salad.

Q: How long can I store this salad?
A: The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it is best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the Cabbage Salad with Citrus Dressing and Radishes is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish, a light lunch, or something to add to your meal prep routine, this salad will not disappoint. With its crunchy cabbage, zesty citrus dressing, and the peppery bite of radishes, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

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