A fresh, colourful and crunchy salad with sweet apple, crisp cabbage, grated carrot and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a side dish for grilled chicken, sandwiches, burgers or everyday meals.
Preparation time: 15 minutes Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the salad
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2 cups finely shredded cabbage
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1 large carrot, grated
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1 crisp apple, thinly sliced or julienned
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¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
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2 tbsp raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
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2 tbsp chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or coriander
For the creamy dressing
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¼ cup mayonnaise
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¼ cup plain yogurt
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp honey or sugar
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp salt, or to taste
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½ tsp Dijon or regular mustard (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the vegetables and apple
Wash the cabbage, carrot and apple thoroughly. Shred the cabbage finely, grate the carrot and cut the apple into thin strips.
2. Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, honey, black pepper, salt and mustard until smooth.
3. Combine the salad
Place the cabbage, carrot, apple and red onion in a large bowl. Add raisins and nuts if using.
4. Toss and chill
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is lightly coated. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with parsley and extra nuts for added crunch.
Tips for the best crunchy salad
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Keep it crisp: Add the dressing just before serving if preparing ahead.
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Prevent browning: Toss the apple with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting.
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Make it lighter: Use mostly yogurt with just 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise.
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Add extra crunch: Include sunflower seeds, toasted walnuts or sliced almonds.
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Add a sweet-and-tangy flavour: Increase the lemon juice slightly and add a little extra honey.
Optional variation: Apple slaw
For a classic coleslaw-style version, use more cabbage, thinly sliced green apple and a dressing made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, a little sugar and black pepper.
Serving suggestion: This salad pairs especially well with crispy fried chicken, roasted potatoes, beef burgers and grilled sandwiches.
