This salad is ideal for preparing in advance because cabbage holds up beautifully without becoming soggy.
The flavors deepen and blend over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
It’s budget-friendly, versatile, and pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or hearty main dishes. Plus, it stays fresh and crunchy longer than most leafy salads.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
green cabbage, thinly sliced red cabbage, thinly sliced carrots, shredded red bell pepper, thinly sliced green onions, sliced
For the dressing: olive oil apple cider vinegar Dijon mustard honey garlic, minced salt black pepper
Add shredded purple kale for extra texture and color.
Use rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a lighter flavor.
Stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamier version.
Add sliced apples for a sweet, crisp twist.
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Because cabbage is sturdy, this salad maintains its crunch for several days.
No reheating is needed; simply toss before serving. If it seems slightly dry after storage, drizzle with a little extra olive oil or vinegar to refresh it.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make this salad?
You can prepare it up to 2 days ahead for best texture and flavor.
Will the cabbage become soggy?
No, cabbage holds up well and stays crisp even after sitting in the dressing.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, substitute maple syrup for honey in the dressing.
What dishes pair well with this salad?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, or barbecue dishes.
Can I use only one type of cabbage?
Yes, you can use all green or all red cabbage if preferred.
How thin should I slice the cabbage?
Thin slices work best for a tender yet crisp texture.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu are great additions.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze cabbage salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture.
How do I keep the salad extra crunchy?
Add nuts or seeds just before serving to maintain their crispness.
Conclusion
Make-Ahead Cabbage Salad is a simple, crisp, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for preparing in advance. With its sturdy texture and bright dressing, it’s a reliable, refreshing addition to almost any meal and an excellent option for gatherings or weekly meal prep.
Make-Ahead Cabbage Salad is a crisp, colorful, and refreshing dish that tastes even better after sitting in the refrigerator. Made with crunchy green and red cabbage, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette, this easy cabbage salad is perfect for meal prep, potlucks, and busy weeknights. Naturally gluten-free and budget-friendly, this healthy cabbage salad stays fresh and crunchy for days.
Ingredients
4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
3 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup carrots, shredded
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions:
Sunflower seeds
Sliced almonds
Dried cranberries
Fresh parsley
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine sliced green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, bell pepper, and green onions.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to blend and deepen.
Serve: Toss again before serving and sprinkle with optional toppings if desired.
Notes
Slice cabbage thinly for the best tender-crisp texture.This salad improves in flavor after several hours of chilling.Add nuts or seeds just before serving to maintain crunch.For a creamier version, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.If the salad seems dry after storing, refresh with a small drizzle of olive oil or vinegar.
