Irresistibly Fresh and Crunchy: Cabbage, Carrot, and Apple Salad 🥗✨

Hi I'm Rita

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on

This post contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend kitchen tools, ingredients, and supplements we trust and use ourselves!

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a fresh and crunchy salad that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a dish that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with vibrant colors, this cabbage, carrot, and apple salad is the perfect choice.

With its crisp shredded cabbage, sweet grated carrot, and juicy apple slices, this salad is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s an ideal dish for any season, any meal, and any occasion—whether you serve it as a side, a healthy lunch, or a refreshing snack.

Let’s dive into this easy, delicious, and healthy salad recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage, Carrot, and Apple Salad

  • Crispy, Crunchy, and Refreshing – A mix of fresh vegetables and fruit for the perfect bite.
  • Packed with Nutrients – Full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Quick and Easy to Make – Ready in just 10 minutes!
  • Naturally Sweet and Tangy – A delicious balance of sweet apple, earthy cabbage, and zesty lemon.
  • Pairs Well with Any Meal – Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal on its own.

Ingredients for Cabbage, Carrot, and Apple Salad

Here’s everything you need to create this delicious and refreshing salad:

Main Ingredients

IngredientQuantity
Cabbage, finely shredded200-400g
Carrot, peeled and grated1 medium
Green apple, cored and thinly sliced1
Spring onion, chopped1-2
Dill or parsley, chopped (optional)A handful
Lemon juiceTo taste
Olive oilTo taste
SaltTo taste

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cabbage, Carrot, and Apple Salad

1. Preparing the Vegetables and Apple

Shred the Cabbage

  • Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, finely shred the cabbage into thin strips.
  • Place the shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl.

Grate the Carrot

  • Peel and grate the carrot using a coarse grater.
  • Add the grated carrot to the cabbage.

Slice the Apple

  • Core the green apple and thinly slice it into matchsticks or thin wedges.
  • Leave the skin on for extra crunch and color.
  • Add the apple slices to the bowl with the cabbage and carrot.

2. Adding Herbs and Spring Onions

Chop the Spring Onion

  • Finely chop the spring onion and sprinkle it over the salad.
  • It adds a mild sharpness that balances the sweetness of the apple and carrot.

Add Herbs (Optional)

  • Chop a handful of fresh dill or parsley and sprinkle it over the salad.
  • These herbs enhance the aroma and flavor of the salad.

3. Making the Dressing

Squeeze the Lemon Juice

  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad.
  • This adds a bright tangy flavor and helps prevent the apple from browning.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

  • Add a light drizzle of olive oil for richness and a smooth texture.
  • The oil balances the crunch of the vegetables.

Season with Salt

  • Add salt to taste, then toss everything together to ensure the flavors are well combined.

4. Serving the Salad

Toss and Taste

  • Mix everything well to evenly coat the ingredients with the dressing.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve Immediately

  • This salad is best served fresh for maximum crunch and flavor.
  • Enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or light meal.

Health Benefits of Cabbage, Carrot, and Apple Salad

1. Supports Digestion and Gut Health

  • Cabbage and carrots are high in fiber, promoting good digestion.

2. Boosts Immunity with Vitamins

  • Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, supporting your immune system.
  • Carrots provide vitamin A, great for skin and eye health.

3. A Heart-Healthy Salad

  • Olive oil and fresh vegetables help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

4. Naturally Hydrating and Detoxifying

  • Lemon juice and fresh produce keep you hydrated and help detox the body.

Expert Tips for the Best Salad

1. Use Fresh, Crisp Ingredients

  • Fresh cabbage, apples, and carrots make the salad taste vibrant and crunchy.

2. Adjust the Dressing to Your Taste

  • Add honey for sweetness or mustard for extra tang.

3. Make It a Meal

  • Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or nuts for extra protein.

4. Keep It Crunchy

  • If making ahead, add the apples and dressing just before serving.

5. Try Different Variations

  • Use red cabbage for a pop of color or pear instead of apple for a milder sweetness.

Delicious Variations of Cabbage, Carrot, and Apple Salad

1. Creamy Coleslaw-Style Salad 🥬

  • Mix in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy texture.

2. Asian-Inspired Crunchy Salad 🍜

  • Add sesame seeds, soy sauce, and ginger for an Asian twist.

3. Sweet and Nutty Version 🍏

  • Sprinkle walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.

4. Spicy and Tangy Salad 🌶️

  • Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.

5. Mediterranean-Inspired Salad 🇬🇷

  • Toss in feta cheese and black olives for a Greek-style salad.

How to Store and Keep the Salad Fresh

1. Refrigerating Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

2. Preventing Apple from Browning

  • Always add lemon juice to keep apples fresh.

3. Best Way to Keep It Crunchy

  • Store without dressing and add just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Yes! Red cabbage adds a beautiful color and extra antioxidants.

2. What’s the best apple for this salad?

Green apples (like Granny Smith) are great for a tart contrast.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but add the apple and dressing just before serving for freshness.

4. How can I make this salad more filling?

Add grilled chicken, quinoa, chickpeas, or nuts for extra protein.

5. Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely! Try balsamic vinegar, honey-mustard, or tahini dressing.

6. What other vegetables can I add?

Try adding beets, bell peppers, or radishes for extra crunch.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This cabbage, carrot, and apple salad is the perfect mix of crisp, fresh, and tangy flavors that’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as a side dish, light lunch, or refreshing snack, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make over and over again.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Irresistibly Fresh and Crunchy: Cabbage, Carrot, and Apple Salad 🥗✨


  • Author: Raven
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 24 servings 1x

Description

This fresh and crunchy cabbage, carrot, and apple salad is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crisp flavors. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, it’s a healthy and refreshing dish you can enjoy as a side, light meal, or snack. The combination of crisp cabbage, juicy apple, and bright lemon dressing makes this an irresistible salad that’s ready in just 10 minutes!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 200400g cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 carrot, peeled and grated
  • 1 green apple, cored and thinly sliced
  • 12 spring onions, chopped
  • A handful of dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Fresh lemon juice, to taste
  • Olive oil, to taste
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

  • Shred the Cabbage: Finely slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Add it to a large mixing bowl.
  • Grate the Carrot: Peel and grate the carrot with a coarse grater. Mix it with the cabbage.
  • Slice the Apple: Core the apple and thinly slice it into matchsticks or wedges. Keep the skin on for extra color and crunch.

2. Add Herbs & Spring Onion

  • Chop the Spring Onion: Finely chop the spring onion and add it to the bowl.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: If using, chop and sprinkle dill or parsley over the salad.

3. Make the Dressing

  • Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the ingredients. This enhances the flavors and prevents the apple from browning.
  • Drizzle with Olive Oil: Add a light drizzle of olive oil for a smooth, rich texture.
  • Season with Salt: Sprinkle salt to taste and toss well.

4. Toss & Serve

  • Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to coat everything evenly in the dressing.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve immediately for the freshest, crunchiest experience!

Notes

  • If making ahead, add the apple and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
  • For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or sunflower seeds.
  • Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or seafood.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Raw Preparation
  • Cuisine: Healthy