I first made this crunchy green cabbage and apple salad recipe on a sunny weekend when I was experimenting with simple, gut-friendly recipes for my family. I loved it.
The refreshing mix of cabbage and apples paired with the tangy lemon-Dijon vinaigrette became an instant favorite. Since then, I’ve relied on a few trusty kitchen tools to make prep a breeze—and now I’m excited to share them with you.
This Crunchy Green Cabbage and Apple Salad is a simple yet nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for supporting a healthy gut. Featuring shredded green cabbage, crisp green apples, and toasted pumpkin seeds, it’s tossed in a zesty lemon-Dijon vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.
This salad is not only refreshing and delicious but also loaded with gut-friendly fiber and antioxidants. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner side dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large green apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith works great)
- ⅓ cup toasted pumpkin seeds
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the cabbage
Use a sharp knife or mandoline to finely shred the green cabbage. Place it in a large mixing bowl. - Slice the apple
Thinly slice the green apple. For even slices, a mandoline slicer works best, but a knife is fine too. Add the slices to the cabbage. - Toast the pumpkin seeds
Heat a small pan over medium heat. Add the pumpkin seeds and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool. - Make the vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. - Toss the salad
Pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage and apple mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated. - Add the pumpkin seeds
Sprinkle the toasted pumpkin seeds on top for a crunchy finish. Give the salad one last toss or leave the seeds on top for garnish. - Serve and enjoy
Serve immediately as a light meal or a side dish. It pairs beautifully with soups, sandwiches, or grilled proteins.
Why It’s Good for Your Gut
This salad is packed with gut-boosting ingredients. The green cabbage is rich in fiber, which supports healthy digestion. Green apples provide prebiotics that feed good gut bacteria, while pumpkin seeds add zinc and healthy fats to reduce inflammation. Plus, the tangy lemon-Dijon vinaigrette is light and refreshing, keeping this recipe oil-free and low calorie.
Extra Tips for Success
- Prevent browning: Toss the apple slices with a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the salad to keep them from browning.
- Add variety: For more color, mix in some shredded purple cabbage or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley.
- Make it ahead: This salad stays crunchy for hours, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks. Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve.
Nutritional Highlights
- Green Cabbage: High in vitamins C and K, plus gut-friendly fiber.
- Green Apples: Rich in pectin, a natural prebiotic for gut health.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Loaded with magnesium, zinc, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lemon-Dijon Vinaigrette: Light, tangy, and full of antioxidants from lemon juice.
This Crunchy Green Cabbage & Apple Salad is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and sides. Here are some excellent options to round out your meal:
Protein-Rich Pairings
- Grilled Chicken Breast
- A lean, protein-packed option that complements the tangy and crunchy flavors of the salad.
- Baked Salmon
- The rich, flaky texture of salmon with its omega-3 benefits is an excellent pairing for this light salad.
- Herbed Tofu Steaks
- A plant-based choice seasoned with garlic and herbs for a hearty addition.
- Lentil Patties
- These vegetarian-friendly patties provide protein and pair perfectly with the salad’s refreshing crunch.
Carb-Friendly Sides
- Quinoa Pilaf
- Light and fluffy quinoa with herbs and veggies adds a warm, nutty flavor to balance the salad.
- Crusty Artisan Bread
- A slice of fresh bread with olive oil or herbed butter is a simple yet satisfying complement.
- Sweet Potato Wedges
- Roasted sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of cinnamon or paprika provide a sweet-savory contrast.
Other Veggie-Based Sides
- Roasted Vegetables
- A medley of roasted carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers adds color and nutrients to your plate.
- Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
- Fill these mushrooms with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese for a hearty, flavorful pairing.
- Creamy Cauliflower Mash
- A gut-friendly, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that’s smooth and comforting.
Pro Tip: You can also serve the salad as a topping on grain bowls or wraps for a creative twist.
Recommended Kitchen Tools for Crunchy Green Cabbage and Apple Salad
- Mandoline Slicer
- Perfect for evenly shredding green cabbage and thinly slicing apples in no time.
- Ensures precision and consistency for a professional-looking salad.
- Salad Spinner
- Quickly removes excess water from shredded cabbage, ensuring your salad stays crisp and fresh.
- A must-have for rinsing leafy greens and vegetables.
- Mixing Bowls
- Use a set of stainless steel or glass mixing bowls to toss your ingredients with ease.
- Great for meal prep and keeping your kitchen organized.
- Citrus Juicer
- Effortlessly extract fresh lemon juice for the vinaigrette.
- Helps you avoid seeds and get every last drop of juice.
- Whisk
- A small whisk is perfect for blending the lemon-Dijon vinaigrette.
- Ensures a smooth and emulsified dressing every time.
- Non-Stick Skillet
- Ideal for toasting pumpkin seeds evenly without burning.
- Look for one with a durable coating for easy cleanup.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
- A high-quality chef’s knife is essential for finely shredding cabbage and slicing apples.
- Ensures precision and saves time during prep.
- Cutting Board
- Use a sturdy cutting board to chop cabbage and slice apples safely.
- Choose one with a juice groove to keep your workspace clean.
- Salad Tongs
- Makes tossing the salad and serving portions effortless.
- Ensures an even coating of the vinaigrette on every bite.
- Airtight Storage Containers
- If making ahead, use these to keep your salad fresh.
- Great for storing leftover salad or prepped ingredients.
Pro Tip: Check for kitchen tools that come in sets for added value, or opt for multi-functional tools to save space in your kitchen.
Visit Amazon to explore these helpful tools and elevate your salad-making experience.
