Fresh & Light Cabbage Crunch Salad with Herb Bruschetta!

Fresh & Light Cabbage Crunch Salad with Herb Bruschetta

Ingredients:

For the Cabbage Crunch Salad:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple, or a mix of both)

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup sliced green onions (scallions)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional for extra flavor)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for a little crunch)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Herb Bruschetta:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced

• 1/2 small red onion, finely diced

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dressing (optional):

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional for a slight sweetness)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Herb Bruschetta:

• In a medium bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, and parsley.

• Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then add the garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Cabbage Crunch Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, red bell pepper, and green onions.

• Toss everything together until evenly mixed. If you like a little extra crunch, sprinkle in some sesame seeds.

3. Make the Dressing (Optional):

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, and honey (if using).

• Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle over the cabbage salad. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

4. Assemble the Salad:

• Just before serving, spoon the herb bruschetta mixture onto the top of the cabbage salad.

• Gently toss the salad to combine everything, or serve the bruschetta on top as a fresh garnish.

5. Serve:

• Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or light lunch. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.

Q&A: Common Questions & Tips

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A1: You can prepare the cabbage salad and the herb bruschetta ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them just before serving to keep the salad crisp and fresh. If you need to make it ahead, store the dressing and the bruschetta separately and toss everything together when ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use a different type of cabbage?
A2: Absolutely! You can use purple cabbage for a vibrant color, or a mix of both green and purple cabbage for added texture. Napa cabbage would also work well if you prefer a softer texture.

Q3: How can I make this salad more filling?
A3: To make it a more filling meal, you can add some grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for extra protein. You can also top it with avocado slices for healthy fats.

Q4: What can I use instead of sesame seeds?
A4: If you don’t have sesame seeds, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts would also work well!

Q5: Can I make this salad spicy?
A5: Yes! You can add a little jalapeño to the herb bruschetta for some heat or sprinkle some red pepper flakes in the dressing for an extra kick.

Q6: Is this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
A6: Yes! The salad and herb bruschetta are both vegetarian and vegan. Just skip the honey or use a plant-based sweetener if you want to keep it fully vegan.

Summary:

This Fresh & Light Cabbage Crunch Salad with Herb Bruschetta is a healthy, colorful, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. The crunchy cabbage and fresh veggies pair beautifully with the tangy and savory herb bruschetta, making every bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings or proteins, making it a versatile recipe that fits into any meal plan.