Easy Cabbage Apple Salad Recipe

Meet your new favorite salad – Cabbage Apple Salad! This crisp and colorful dish mixes shredded red cabbage with sweet, tangy Golden Delicious apples, all tossed in a zesty dressing. With a blend of apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a hint of caraway seeds, it’s the perfect mix of crunch and flavor. Whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy winter dinner, this salad fits right in!

This Cabbage Apple Salad is as pretty as it is tasty! With crisp textures and a perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors, every bite is a treat that’ll keep you coming back for more. Whether it’s a side dish or the main attraction, this salad is a year-round winner—and the caraway seeds add just the right touch of nostalgia.

Ingredients You Will Need

• Red Cabbage
• Golden Delicious Apples
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Olive Oil
• Sugar
• Dijon Mustard
• Salt
• Pepper
• Caraway Seeds

Equipment You May Need

• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Sealable Container
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Salad Tongs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to peel the apples? It’s not necessary to peel the apples, especially if you enjoy the added texture and color provided by the apple peels. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel them.

How finely should I shred the cabbage? Shred the cabbage into thin, manageable strips, which ensures a pleasant texture in the salad.

Can I make the salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the cabbage and apples crisp.

What is the role of caraway seeds in the salad? Caraway seeds provide a unique and slightly anise-like flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples and the acidity of the vinegar. They add depth to the salad’s overall taste.

What can I serve this salad with? Cabbage apple salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled meats, cheeseburgers, and sandwiches, or as a refreshing side for BBQs and picnics.

Substitutions and Variations

Cabbage: If red cabbage isn’t available, you can substitute it with green cabbage or a combination of both for a different color and flavor profile.

Apples: While Golden Delicious apples are recommended, you can use other sweet apple varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala.

Caraway Seeds: If you’re not a fan of caraway seeds, you can omit them or use fennel seeds, dill seeds, or celery seeds for a different aromatic twist.

Nuts: Add some toasted nuts like slivered almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Greek Yogurt Dressing: Instead of olive oil, use Greek yogurt for a creamy dressing that adds a tangy kick to the salad.

Bacon Bits: For a savory twist, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the salad for added flavor.

Feta Cheese: Crumble some feta cheese over the top for a creamy, tangy element that complements the sweet apples and cabbage.

What to Serve with Cabbage Apple Salad

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts or thighs complement the crunch and sweetness of the salad.

Pork Chops: Whether pan-seared or grilled, the flavors of pork and apple are a classic match.

Roast Turkey or Chicken: A great addition to a holiday or weeknight roast.

Grilled Salmon: The tangy dressing balances the richness of the salmon.

Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, herb-seasoned potatoes make a hearty partner for this salad.

Pesto Chicken Pasta: This Pesto Chicken Pasta is an easy, cozy dinner that’s packed with tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy pesto sauce. Toss in some spinach, a splash of wine, and a sprinkle of parmesan, and you’ve got a weeknight winner!

Crusty Bread: Serve with fresh bread to soak up the dressing.

Quiche: Serve alongside quiche Lorraine or a veggie-filled quiche for a light and satisfying combination.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

If you like salads, you might also like my Mexican Macaroni Salad or my Recipe for Grape Salad. This Apple Pecan Fall Salad and this Apple Salad are also delicious.

Final Thoughts

My family enjoyed this salad with our steaks, but it would make a great side for any main dish. For a stronger flavor, I will probably double the Dijon mustard next time.