Turkish Red Cabbage Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad brings together a beautiful combination of textures and flavors that make it a standout dish. The red cabbage provides a satisfying crunch, while the carrots add a touch of sweetness. The dressing, made with olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and the slightly tart pomegranate molasses, brings all the ingredients together with a zesty kick. The fresh herbs, including parsley and mint, elevate the flavors and make this salad perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be enjoyed as a side dish with kebabs, grilled meats, or even as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.

Ingredients

• 4 cups heaping red cabbage, shredded
• 1-2 carrots, shredded into matchsticks
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (see notes)

Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1-2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground sumac
• 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a mason jar or a small blender, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, kosher salt, sumac, and Aleppo pepper. Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake well to combine. Alternatively, you can blend the ingredients together for a smoother texture. Taste and adjust by adding more pomegranate molasses if desired.

2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the shredded cabbage, carrots, chopped parsley, and mint.

3. Toss and Let Sit: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly. Let the salad sit for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate and the cabbage to soak in the dressing.

4. Taste and Adjust: After the salad has rested, taste and add more salt or pomegranate molasses if necessary.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and there is no cooking time involved.

Variations

• Dried Mint: If you don’t have fresh mint, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried mint.

• Sweetener Alternatives: If you can’t find pomegranate molasses, a squeeze of honey or a little maple syrup can work as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

• Add Nuts: For a crunchy twist, try adding some toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the salad.

• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or fresh chili to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. After that, the cabbage will begin to lose its crispness, but the flavors will still be delicious. It’s not recommended to reheat this salad, as it is best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time and refrigerate it. However, it’s best to serve it within 24 hours for optimal crunchiness.

2. Can I use regular cabbage instead of red cabbage?

Yes, you can use green cabbage as an alternative to red cabbage. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

3. Is there a substitute for Aleppo pepper?

If you don’t have Aleppo pepper, you can substitute with a mild chili powder or paprika, though Aleppo pepper has a unique, fruity flavor.

4. Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes for additional flavor and crunch.

5. Can I make this salad spicy?

Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, add more Aleppo pepper or sprinkle in some red chili flakes.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover salad should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

7. Can I use bottled lemon juice for the dressing?

Fresh lemon juice is always recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

8. Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, lamb, or even chickpeas would make a great addition to this salad for a more substantial meal.

9. Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Yes, this salad is completely vegan as it does not contain any animal products.

10. How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less pomegranate molasses, or using a sweetener like honey or maple syrup, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

This Turkish Red Cabbage Salad is a flavorful, vibrant dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal. The combination of fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a refreshing salad that will delight your taste buds. It’s simple to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit!