Stir-fried cabbage salad is a unique twist on the traditional salad, offering a warm and satisfying dish that’s both vibrant and full of flavor. The combination of crisp vegetables sautéed to perfection with a sweet and tangy sesame-honey dressing creates a delightful blend of textures and tastes. This salad is quick to prepare and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 300 g (10.5 oz) young cabbage, thinly sliced
- Salt to taste
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 sweet red pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red hot pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- A handful of fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
For the Dressing:
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) soy sauce
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
- 20 ml (1.3 tbsp) apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Slice and Salt the Cabbage:
Start by thinly slicing the young cabbage and placing it in a large bowl. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the cabbage, and gently massage it with your hands. This process softens the cabbage and enhances its flavor. Set the cabbage aside to allow the salt to work its magic while you prepare the rest of the vegetables.
Julienne and Slice the Vegetables:
Next, julienne the carrot using a special grater or a sharp knife. Thinly slice both the sweet red pepper and yellow pepper, and finely chop the red hot pepper. Chop the green onions and set aside. Lastly, slice the cucumber into thin rounds and keep it separate from the other vegetables until it’s time to combine everything.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the Oil:
In a large frying pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, it’s time to start cooking the vegetables.
Sauté the Carrot:
Add the julienned carrot to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes. The goal is to slightly soften the carrot while retaining some of its crunch, adding texture to the salad.
Add the Peppers:
Next, add the thinly sliced red and yellow peppers to the pan. Continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes, just until the peppers begin to soften but still retain their crispness. The combination of sweet peppers adds a burst of color and flavor to the dish.
Incorporate the Garlic and Hot Pepper:
Stir in the minced garlic and finely chopped red hot pepper. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Finish with Dill, Green Onions, and Sesame Seeds:
Add the chopped fresh dill and green onions to the pan, followed by the sesame seeds. Sauté for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The dill adds a fresh, herbaceous note, while the sesame seeds bring a subtle nuttiness to the salad.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
Mix the Dressing Ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together 30 ml of soy sauce, 30 ml of olive oil, 20 ml of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of honey. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined and the honey is fully dissolved. This dressing is the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet, complementing the stir-fried vegetables beautifully.
4. Combine the Salad:
Mix the Vegetables and Dressing:
In the large bowl with the softened cabbage, add the sautéed vegetables. Then, add the sliced cucumber for a refreshing crunch. Pour the prepared sesame and honey dressing over the vegetables. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Serve the Salad:
Serve Warm or at Room Temperature:
This stir-fried cabbage salad can be served immediately while it’s still warm, which brings out the richness of the sautéed vegetables. Alternatively, you can let it cool to room temperature for a more refreshing experience. The salad is versatile and can be enjoyed as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or even on its own.
6. Enjoy:
Delicious and Nutritious:
Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this stir-fried cabbage salad is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a healthy addition to your diet. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a flavorful dressing makes it a dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approx. 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 2g
Conclusion
This Stir-Fried Cabbage Salad with Sesame and Honey Dressing is a delightful fusion of crisp vegetables, savory notes, and sweet undertones. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or as a refreshing side for a weekend barbecue. The balance of flavors, from the mild heat of the peppers to the freshness of dill, ensures that every bite is a flavorful experience. Try this recipe out and enjoy a salad that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying!
