This crisp, refreshing cabbage salad is a tangy, crunchy masterpiece that’s perfect for meal prepping, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Packed with vibrant shredded cabbage, crunchy radishes, cucumbers, and celery, it’s coated in a zesty homemade dressing that perfectly balances sweetness, acidity, and a hint of garlic. The best part? It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and can last for weeks in the refrigerator—making it a go-to for healthy eating.
Whether you serve it as a side dish, a sandwich topping, or a standalone snack, this recipe’s crunchy texture and tangy flavor will keep you coming back for more!
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 head of shredded cabbage – The star of the dish, providing a hearty crunch and base for the salad.
- 4 small cucumbers, thinly sliced – Adds a refreshing, juicy crunch to balance the tangy dressing.
- 2 green peppers (optional, as per your preference) – Offers a slight bitterness and additional color.
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced – Brings a mild sweetness and beautiful pop of color.
- 1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced – Contributes peppery flavor and an extra crunch.
- 1/2 bunch celery, chopped – Adds a fresh, earthy crunch to complement the other veggies.
For the Tangy Dressing
- 1 cup oil – Creates a silky base for the dressing, helping it cling to the veggies.
- 1/2 cup warm water – Helps dissolve the sugar and salt evenly.
- 1 1/2 cups white vinegar – Provides the tangy kick that defines this salad.
- 10-12 tablespoons sugar – Balances the acidity with the perfect level of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon salt – Enhances all the flavors, making them shine.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle depth of savory flavor to the dressing.
Instructions
Prep the Vegetables:
- Shred the cabbage finely using a sharp knife, food processor, or mandoline slicer.
- Thinly slice the cucumbers, radishes, and red onion. Chop the celery into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re including green peppers, slice them thinly.
- Place all the prepped vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1/2 cup warm water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
- Add the white vinegar, oil, and garlic powder to the bowl, and whisk the mixture vigorously until well combined.
Combine and Mix Thoroughly:
- Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the vegetables in the large mixing bowl. Use tongs or a large spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring every slice is coated in the dressing.
Pack into Jars:
- Carefully pack the salad mixture into clean, airtight glass jars. Press the vegetables down firmly to remove any air pockets.
- Pour any leftover dressing equally into each jar, ensuring the vegetables are covered.
Refrigerate:
- Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate for at least 12 hours before serving. This allows the vegetables to soak up the flavors and achieve that perfect tangy-sweet balance.
Why This Recipe Works
- Long-lasting Freshness: Thanks to the vinegar-based dressing, this salad will stay fresh and crisp for several weeks in the refrigerator.
- Versatile Dish: It’s the perfect side for BBQs, burgers, tacos, or as a crunchy topping for wraps and sandwiches.
- Healthy and Low-Fat: Loaded with fiber-rich veggies and a light dressing, it’s a nutritious addition to any meal.
Pro Tips for Perfecting This Salad
- Uniform Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to achieve evenly cut vegetables for a consistent texture.
- Allow it to Marinate: While the salad is delicious after 12 hours, it gets even better the longer it sits, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dressing, start with 8 tablespoons of sugar and adjust to taste.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding a handful of chopped dill, parsley, or cilantro before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a refreshing contrast.
- On Sandwiches: Add a scoop to pulled pork, burgers, or turkey sandwiches for an extra crunch.
- With Tacos: Use as a topping for fish tacos or chicken tacos for a zesty finish.
- On Its Own: Enjoy it straight from the jar as a low-calorie, guilt-free snack!
Conclusion
This sweet and tangy refrigerator cabbage salad is a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that stays fresh for weeks. With its vibrant mix of crunchy vegetables and its zesty, well-balanced dressing, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether you serve it as a side dish, snack, or topping, this salad is guaranteed to elevate your meals with its bold flavors and irresistible crunch.
Prepare it today, and enjoy a refreshing, tangy delight that keeps getting better with time! Pin it, share it, and savor every bite.