Name: Easy Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Dijon
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Salad:; 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded; 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded; 1 large carrot, julienned or grated; ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 3 green onions, chopped; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional); ¼ cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds; Dressing:; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste

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This easy crunchy cabbage salad with Dijon dressing is light, refreshing, and full of texture. I love how the crisp vegetables pair with the tangy Dijon dressing, creating a salad that’s both healthy and satisfying. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s simple yet packed with flavor. The combination of green and red cabbage gives me a colorful and crunchy base, while the Dijon dressing adds a zesty kick with just the right touch of sweetness. I also enjoy how versatile it is—I can mix in different herbs, seeds, or even proteins to make it a full meal. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge, making it great for make-ahead lunches.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
1 large carrot, julienned or grated
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 green onions, chopped
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
¼ cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (for crunch)

For the Dijon Dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

I combine the shredded cabbages, carrot, bell pepper, green onions, and parsley in a large mixing bowl.
In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
I pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well until everything is evenly coated.
Right before serving, I sprinkle sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top for extra crunch.

Servings and timing

This salad serves about 6. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish since there’s no cooking involved.

Variations

Sometimes I add sliced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. I also like to include chickpeas or grilled chicken if I want to turn it into a complete meal. Swapping parsley for cilantro or dill changes up the flavor nicely. For extra crunch, I occasionally mix in toasted almonds or walnuts instead of seeds.

Storage/Reheating

I store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since cabbage stays crunchy, the salad holds up well even after sitting in the dressing. To keep the seeds crisp, I usually add them right before serving. This salad doesn’t need reheating—it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the Dijon dressing a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator until I’m ready to use it.

Do I have to use both green and red cabbage?

No, I sometimes use just one type of cabbage depending on what I have on hand, though mixing both gives me a nice color contrast.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, I use maple syrup instead of honey, and everything else is already plant-based.

How can I make the salad creamier?

I add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing when I want a creamier texture.

What can I serve this salad with?

I like serving it alongside grilled meats, fish, or veggie burgers, but it also works well as a topping for tacos or grain bowls.

Conclusion

This easy crunchy cabbage salad with Dijon dressing is a refreshing, flavorful dish that I enjoy making year-round. I like how simple it is to prepare, yet it delivers bold flavors and satisfying crunch. Whether I serve it as a side or add protein to make it a meal, this salad always feels fresh and delicious.