Crunchy, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, Napa cabbage salad is the perfect addition to any meal or great as a light and healthy lunch on its own. Packed with vibrant vegetables and tossed in a tangy dressing, this easy recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish to accompany your main course or a satisfying standalone option, this Napa cabbage salad has got you covered.
**Easy Napa Cabbage Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 head Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
**Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Start by thinly slicing the Napa cabbage, julienned the carrot, and thinly slicing the red bell pepper. Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the cilantro. Place all these vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, rice vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. **Mix the Salad:** Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. **Add Crunch and Sweetness:** Sprinkle the sliced almonds and dried cranberries over the salad. Gently mix to distribute them throughout the salad, adding a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness to every bite.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and enjoy the crisp and refreshing taste!
This Easy Napa Cabbage Salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost, or toss in some sesame seeds for an extra nutty flavor. You can also swap the dried cranberries for raisins or apricots for a different twist.
With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, this salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and impress your guests with a beautiful and tasty dish.
So next time you’re looking for a light and flavorful salad that comes together in minutes, give this Easy Napa Cabbage Salad a try. It’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your cooking repertoire.
