Healthy and Refreshing Cabbage Salad from Turkey
Picture this: you’re sitting in a cozy restaurant in Turkey, indulging in various small plates of flavorful and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Suddenly, the waiter appears with a colorful bowl of cabbage salad that sparks your taste buds. The mix of purple and green cabbage, carrots, vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice blend together into a perfect melody of flavors that leaves you craving for more.
Luckily for you, this tasting experience can be recreated in your own home with our Turkish Cabbage Salad (Lahana Salata) recipe! This refreshing salad is made using finely shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, red peppers, salt, pepper, vinegar, lemon juice, and olive oil. The result? A crispy, crunchy and tangy salad that will awaken all of your senses.
If you also believe that salads are boring and tasteless side dishes that lack personality- think again! Our Turkish Cabbage Salad is the perfect example of how salads can be both healthy and delicious at the same time. Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or need a side dish to complement your kebab dish or burger bun- this salad got your back.
So why not try something different today? Give this salad recipe a chance to transform your upcoming meal into an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Trust me- your taste buds will thank you later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear food enthusiasts, let me tell you why you’ll love this Turkish Cabbage Salad, also known as Lahana Salata. This salad is a masterpiece of flavors and textures that cater to everyone’s taste buds. Trust me; you wouldn’t want to miss out on this heavenly creation.
Firstly, the ingredients used in this recipe are simple but incredibly flavorful. We’re talking about finely shredded cabbage and carrots, pickled red cabbage, and the perfect balance of lemon juice, vinegar, and olive oil. These components complement each other so perfectly that they create an explosion of flavors in your mouth.
Secondly, it’s a salad that could be eaten as a side dish or simply by itself. This Turkish coleslaw beyaz lahana salatası is delicious and a super healthy meal option. Finely shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in lemon juice will leave you feeling full without weighing you down.
Lastly, the versatility of the dish is endless! You can tweak it up by adding different vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers or peppers for additional crunchiness. The resulting taste is still the same great flavors combined with added texture.
Therefore, if you’re on the hunt for something light but satisfying along with all flavorsome goodness, then give this salad a try! Your friends and family will be raving about it for days- trust me!
Ingredient List
Let’s start with the main ingredients to make Turkish Cabbage Salad (Lahana Salata). Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 1 head cabbage, finely shredded
- 3 carrots, shredded
- 1/2 head red cabbage, finely shredded (optional)
For the salad dressing, you will need:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste.
That’s it! Only a few ingredients are necessary for this healthy and tasty side dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or an everyday meal.
The Recipe How-To
After preparing the ingredients for this glorious Turkish Cabbage Salad, we can move on to the recipe.
Step 1: Shred Vegetables
To start, take a head of cabbage and remove any damaged outer leaves. Chop it in half, then cut out and discard the hard core at the base of each half. Then take your knife and chop each half into fine shreds. Put it in a large bowl.
Take 3 medium-sized carrots and scrape away their skin. You can either slice them or use a grater to shred them directly into the same bowl as the cabbage.
Step 2: Add Olive Oil and Lemon Juice
If you’re using fresh lemon, roll it between your palms on your kitchen top to soften it before slicing it in half. Add the juice of one lemon to the bowl with 1/4 cup of olive oil, a tablespoon of vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
Step 3: Let It Sit
The salad should be allowed to sit covered in its juices for an hour or two, but it’s not necessary if you’re short on time.
Step 4: Serve
This salad can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats such as kebab or meatballs since its tangy taste complements them perfectly. You could also pair it with lighter dishes such as chicken breast or fish or even sandwich wraps to bring new life to your lunch routine.
Congratulations! You can now enjoy this Turkish-style coleslaw and impress your family, friends and guests with your cooking skills!
Substitutions and Variations
Just like any other recipe, there are many ways to customize this Turkish Cabbage Salad (Lahana Salata) to your liking. Here are some possible substitutions and variations that you can try:
– Cabbage: If you cannot find red cabbage for this recipe, green cabbage is a great alternative. You can also use a combination of both for added color and texture.
– Carrots: The shredded carrots in this recipe complement the cabbage perfectly, but you can leave them out if you prefer. Alternatively, you can use thinly sliced bell peppers or cucumbers as a substitute.
– Oil and Vinegar: For a creamier salad dressing, you can mix equal parts of Greek yogurt and olive oil together, then add vinegar and lemon juice to taste. This will add a tangy flavor that complements the vegetables nicely.
– Salt and Pepper: If you’re not a fan of black pepper, try using freshly chopped parsley or cilantro instead for added freshness.
– Middle Eastern Twist: You can add chopped parsley, mint leaves or even sumac for an extra Middle Eastern twist to the salad. It will make it feel even more authentic!
– Pickled Red Cabbage: If you want to give the salad extra tanginess, top it with pickled red cabbage before serving. This will add another layer of flavor and texture that your guests will love.
Whether you make small tweaks or major adjustments, these substitutions and variations will help you create your own unique version of this Turkish Cabbage Salad (Lahana Salata).
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving Turkish cabbage salad, there are a few things to consider. First of all, this salad is very versatile and can be served for different occasions. It can serve as a side dish, a tasty accompaniment to grilled meats like kebab, or it can be the star of the show.
If you’re planning to have a quick and healthy lunch, one option is to eat cabbage salad on its own. You may need to add a little more protein for added sustenance, but the fiber in the veggies will keep you feeling full for longer.
Another option is to serve it as a crisp and refreshing side dish at your next barbecue or family gathering. Whether it’s chicken, beef, or lamb kebabs, the tangy and slightly sweet flavors of the salad perfectly complement grilled meats.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, you can take inspiration from Middle Eastern cuisine and serve your cabbage salad along with falafel or hummus for a taste of the Mediterranean. Alternatively, it pairs well with crispy fried chicken sandwiches or as part of an appetizer platter.
In terms of wine pairing, a dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc would cut through the acidity of the vinegar and lemon juice in the dressing while bringing out the subtle nutty flavors of the ingredients. If you’re more into beer, you can try pairing it with crisp pilsners or hoppy IPAs for a more refreshing taste.
Overall, Turkish cabbage salad is a versatile dish that can be paired with different foods and beverages depending on your taste preference.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As much as I love the freshness of this Turkish cabbage salad, it’s also a great dish to make ahead of time, store, and easily reheat later. You can prepare the salad up to 2 days in advance and keep it stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
For longer storage, you can also consider making a larger batch and freezing it. Just keep in mind that when you thaw it, the texture might be slightly different from when it was freshly made. Also, if you’re using red cabbage or purple cabbage, it may bleed color when frozen and thawed.
When reheating the salad, gently warm it up in a pan over low heat or microwave until just heated through. Do not overcook or else the cabbage will lose its crunchiness.
By making this Turkish cabbage salad ahead of time, you’ll have more time to focus on other things for your meal preparations. Plus, leftovers are always great for lunch or a quick snack!
Tips for Perfect Results
As an Israeli chef with decades of experience, I have perfected the art of making Turkish Cabbage Salad. Here are some tips to ensure that your salad is just as delicious as mine:
1. Always shred the cabbage finely: For the best texture, make sure to shred the cabbage as finely as possible. This will allow the salad dressing to coat every strand of cabbage and enhance its flavor.
2. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give your salad a brighter, more pungent flavor. Be sure to use firm, ripe lemons and squeeze them by hand to get the most out of every fruit.
3. Don’t skimp on the olive oil: Olive oil is an essential ingredient in this salad and should not be substituted. Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
4. Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste your salad before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, vinegar, and lemon juice to your liking. Everyone’s palate is different, so use these seasonings as a guide rather than a strict measurement.
5. Chill before serving: It’s important to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create an even more delicious salad.
By following these tips, you can create a perfectly balanced Turkish Cabbage Salad that is sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy!
FAQ
As you embark on making this delicious Turkish cabbage salad (lahana salata) recipe, you may have some questions about ingredients, measurements, or substitutions. Fear not, as I have put together a list of frequently asked questions to help guide you through any uncertainties you may encounter. By addressing these common concerns upfront, you can confidently prepare this dish and impress your guests with a perfectly-balanced, tangy salad that’s perfect as an appetizer or side dish. So get ready to unleash your culinary skills and let’s dive into the FAQ section!
What is Turkish salad made of?
In this article, I will be sharing a simple and effortless recipe for an appetizing Tangy Turkish Salad made with fresh romaine lettuce, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, onions, and feta cheese. It is complemented by a zesty dressing that features mint, parsley, garlic, and lemon. This salad is a perfect partner for falafels, particularly if you want to enjoy them in a pita wrap.
What is a salad made of cabbage called?
Slaw is a side dish made from finely shredded cabbage mixed with a dressing or condiment, usually vinaigrette or mayonnaise. Its name comes from koolsla, a Dutch word meaning ‘cabbage salad’.
How to make shredded napa cabbage?
For the cabbage, the first step is to cut it into thin strips. Start by slicing the wedge as far as you can go, creating long strips. Once the wedge becomes too small to handle, place the remaining unshredded piece on the cutting board and proceed slicing until the whole wedge is shredded into thin pieces.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Turkish Cabbage Salad (Lahana Salata) recipe is a perfect addition to any meal, making it a versatile and simple side dish. With its delicious combination of finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and dressed with olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, this salad is a healthy and flavorful way to eat your greens.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a nutritious dish to accompany dinner, this recipe hits the spot. So what are you waiting for? Head to your nearest grocery store and grab the ingredients needed to make this tasty salad. Trust me; your taste buds will appreciate the flavors and textures that this dish offers.
This traditional Turkish style pickled red cabbage salad has been enjoyed by generations of people near the Middle Eastern regions. Now with this recipe guide in-hand from Ehud, anyone can make their version of Salata Turshiye (pickle salad). With customizable flavoring and versatility in freshly sliced vegetables, anyone can impress at the dining table or spice up snacking time.
So go ahead and try out this authentic recipe – I guarantee you won’t be disappointed! Cue up some Turkish music like Tarkan’s hit song ‘Şımarık’ while you cook and enjoy!
Turkish Cabbage Salad (Lahana Salata) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 head cabbage
- 3 carrots, shredded
- olive oil
- vinegar or lemon juice
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- Cut the cabbage in half and discard the outer tough leaves and the inner core.
- Cut each half into quarters and wash under cold water.
- Place each quarter on its side and slice very thin slices with a sharp knife.
- Place cabbage and carrots in a bowl and dress it with salt, pepper, oil and vinegar or lemon to taste.
- Toss well with enough dressing to suit your taste and serve.