Fresh & Tangy Cabbage Salad

Bright, crunchy, and packed with a variety of textures and flavors, this Cabbage Salad is a refreshing dish that complements any meal. The crisp cabbage and tart Granny Smith apple form the base, while a sweet-and-savory dressing ties everything together. Topped with creamy feta, chewy cranberries, and nutty toasted pecans, this salad offers a delightful mix of vibrant colors and tastes perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light side dish.

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 small Granny Smith apple, cored and cut into matchsticks

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup vegetable oil

For the Toppings:

• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• 3 tablespoons toasted pecans, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Base:
   • Thinly slice the green and red cabbage for a mix of color and crunch. Core the Granny Smith apple and cut it into thin matchsticks for a touch of tartness. Combine the cabbage and apple in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small jar with a lid or a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and vegetable oil until well emulsified. Shake or whisk vigorously to ensure the ingredients are fully combined.
3. Dress the Salad:
   • Gradually drizzle the dressing over the cabbage mixture, tossing as you go. Use just enough dressing to lightly coat the salad without overwhelming it (you may not need all the dressing). For best results, let the salad sit for 15 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add the Toppings:
   • Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans just before serving. Toss lightly to distribute the toppings or leave them as a garnish.

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Tips for the Best Cabbage Salad

1. Slice Thinly: Use a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor to achieve uniformly thin cabbage slices for optimal texture.
2. Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds an irresistible crunch. Simply spread them on a dry skillet and heat over medium-low until fragrant.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of your apple, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup in the dressing to balance the flavors.
4. Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared ahead of time, as the cabbage holds up well without wilting. However, add the toppings just before serving to keep them fresh.
5. Customization: Swap the cranberries for raisins or dried cherries, or substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve this salad as a side with grilled chicken, salmon, or steak.
• Use it as a light topping for tacos or pulled pork sandwiches.
• Pair it with a bowl of warm soup or crusty bread for a balanced meal.

This Cabbage Salad is a versatile, colorful dish that brings a burst of flavor to any table. Its mix of tangy, sweet, and savory elements ensures it will be a hit at your next gathering!