If you’re on the hunt for a refreshing, vibrant, and satisfying salad that bursts with flavors and textures, look no further! This Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Peanut Dressing is a deliciously colorful dish that combines the crispiness of fresh vegetables with a creamy, nutty dressing. Perfect for meal prep, a light lunch, or a side dish at gatherings, this salad will leave you wanting more. With the added protein from chicken and the sweetness of blueberries, it’s a balanced meal that is both nutritious and delightful. Let’s dive in!

Top Reasons to Make Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Peanut Dressing

Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with fiber and vitamins from fresh veggies and fruits.
Flavorful Dressing: The peanut dressing adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the crunch.
Quick & Easy: This salad comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
Versatile: It can be served as a main dish or a side, and can easily be customized.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Great for preparing ahead of time, the ingredients hold up well in the fridge.

Ingredient List

4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced
2 cups grated carrots
1 red bell pepper, cut into matchsticks
½ to 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
3 cups cooked chicken, chopped into cubes
1 pint blueberries
2 ripe avocados, diced
½ cucumber, cut into thin slices and halved
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup sliced almonds
⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
¼ cup liquid aminos (coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce)
¼ cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
3 tablespoons avocado oil
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 small clove garlic
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, peeled and minced
2 to 4 tablespoons water (for thinner consistency)

Hardware & Gadgets

Sharp Knife: For slicing the vegetables finely.
Cutting Board: Essential for food prep.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the salad ingredients.
Whisk or Fork: To mix the dressing thoroughly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Salad Tongs: To serve the salad easily.

Directions: Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Peanut Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, purple cabbage, grated carrots, red bell pepper, and red onion. Toss them gently to mix.

Step 2: Add the Proteins and Fruits

Next, fold in the cooked chicken, blueberries, diced avocados, cucumber slices, and dried cranberries. These ingredients add delightful flavors and textures to the salad.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, liquid aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, avocado oil, sriracha, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Use a whisk or fork to blend until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, gradually add water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine

Pour the peanut dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top the salad with sliced almonds for added crunch. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Peanut Dressing!

Seasonal Spins

Spring: Add fresh snap peas or radishes for a crisp, fresh touch.
Summer: Incorporate seasonal fruits like peaches or mango for a sweet twist.
Fall: Consider adding roasted sweet potatoes or apples for warmth and flavor.
Winter: Use pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and tartness.

Missteps & Fixes

If the salad is too soggy, ensure that you don’t over-dress it. Add the dressing gradually and adjust to your taste.
If the peanut dressing is too thick, simply add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
If you don’t have liquid aminos, you can substitute it with low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos for a similar flavor.
If you find the salad lacks sweetness, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the dressing.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

To keep the salad fresh, store the components separately. The salad base can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days, while the peanut dressing can last for up to a week. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine the ingredients and add the dressing. This method prevents the salad from becoming wilted and soggy.

Your Top Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! The salad can be prepped a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a vegan peanut butter or liquid aminos option.

What can I substitute for peanut butter in the dressing?

If you have a nut allergy, you can use sunflower seed butter or tahini for a similar creamy texture.

How can I customize the salad?

This salad is incredibly versatile! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, nuts, or proteins to make it your own. Try adding quinoa or farro for extra texture!

In Closing

This Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Peanut Dressing is a delightful way to enjoy a medley of fresh ingredients and flavors. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be tailored to suit your personal taste. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Embrace the vibrant colors and textures, and savor every crunchy bite!