# Cabbage and Apple Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing: Your New Go-To Salad
Ah, the Cabbage and Apple Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing—a crunchy, refreshing dish that’s like a hug from your favorite aunt. If you're a busy woman juggling work, family, and perhaps a side hustle or two, you know how important it is to have quick and tasty solutions on hand. This salad is not just simple to make; it’s a fabulous way to sneak in those health benefits without sacrificing flavor. Plus, who can resist that sweet and tangy dressing? Let’s dive in and whip up a bowl of deliciousness, shall we?
## Why You'll Love This Cabbage and Apple Salad
Imagine crisp, shredded cabbage dancing in a sweet, tangy Maple Balsamic dressing, accompanied by juicy, tart apples. This salad has an uplifting crunch, and it's as colorful as a sunset. It's also a perfect complement to any meal—grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even just on its own as a light lunch. Whether you're preparing for a weeknight dinner or having friends over, this salad is that star player you didn’t know you needed!
### Ingredients
To create your own Cabbage and Apple Salad, you’ll need:
- **4 cups green cabbage, shredded** (or more if you want to really pack it in)
- **2 apples, sliced** (granny smith for tartness or honeycrisp for sweetness)
- **1 cup carrots, shredded** (because who doesn’t love a little color?)
- **1/2 cup walnuts, chopped** (or pecans, if you’re feeling fancy)
- **1/4 cup dried cranberries** (to add a touch of sweetness)
#### For the Maple Balsamic Dressing:
- **1/4 cup balsamic vinegar**
- **1/2 cup olive oil**
- **2 tablespoons maple syrup** (the real stuff, please!)
- **1 teaspoon Dijon mustard** (just enough to add a little zing)
- **Salt and pepper to taste**
### Steps to Salad Perfection
1. **Shred the Cabbage**: Grab your sharpest knife or a food processor (if you want to save your knuckles). Slice the cabbage into thin strips. No need to stress about being too precise; after all, we’re not creating a fine art piece here!
2. **Slice Those Apples**: Core and slice your apples. If you’re feeling wild, you can leave the skins on for extra nutrients and texture.
3. **Toss In Carrots**: Add the shredded carrots into the bowl, bringing another layer of crunch and color. You’ll be feeling like a chef in no time!
4. **Nuts and Berries, Oh My!**: Toss in the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries. This is where the salad really sings—those are the bits that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
5. **Make the Dressing**: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust—if you like it sweeter, add more maple syrup; if you need more zing, a little extra mustard never hurt!
6. **Combine it All**: Pour the dressing over your noodle of goodness (that’s what I like to call it!) and toss everything together. Don’t be shy—get those ingredients well-coated!
7. **Let it Chill**: If you can resist, let the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to party together. If you're in a hurry, no judgment if you dive right in.
### Cooking Tips
- **Adjust the Ingredients**: Feel free to switch up the apple variety based on your preference or season. Almost any apple goes well with cabbage.
- **Prep Ahead**: This salad is great for meal prep! Just store the chopped components separately from the dressing until you're ready to eat.
- **Make it a Meal**: Add grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier dish. It’s a salad that’s adaptable to your mood or dietary goals!
### A Personal Anecdote
I remember the first time I made this Cabbage and Apple Salad. It was during a frantic week of balancing deadlines and family obligations. I tossed everything in a bowl, and lo and behold, my kids loved it! From that moment on, it became a fixture in our household—a simple yet flavorful way to get greens into their diets without the usual eye-rolls. Plus, it has the added benefit of keeping my kitchen looking like a star chef’s domain, all while being easier than ordering delivery.
### FAQs
**Can I substitute the apples in this recipe?**
Absolutely! Pears work wonderfully as a substitute, or you can even try adding citrus slices for a different twist.
**How can I store leftovers?**
This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to store the dressing separately to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
**Is this salad gluten-free?**
Yes! All the ingredients in this Cabbage and Apple Salad are gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
As we wrap up this session in the kitchen, it’s clear that the Cabbage and Apple Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing is not just a salad; it’s a delightful, flavorful solution to your meal planning dreams. So why not whip up this dish and savor the crunch, sweetness, and joy it brings to your table? Remember, it's not just about the food; it’s about the memories we create around it.
Happy cooking, friends! 🍏
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### Meta Description
Cabbage and Apple Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing is the perfect recipe for busy lives. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal!
Cabbage and Apple Salad with Maple Balsamic Dressing
A crunchy, refreshing salad featuring shredded cabbage and juicy apples, dressed with a sweet and tangy Maple Balsamic dressing.
Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Shred the cabbage using a knife or food processor.
- Core and slice the apples, leaving the skins on if desired.
- Add the shredded carrots to the mixing bowl.
- Toss in the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries.
Making the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or zing as desired.
Combining the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to coat.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes if possible.
Notes
This salad is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Store the dressing separately to maintain freshness.