If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious salad recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This cabbage salad is a game-changer, taught to me by a professional chef, and I can’t stop eating it. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something tasty and healthy without spending too much time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, ends removed and sliced
- A handful of chives, chopped (to taste)
- 150g ham, cut into small cubes
- 200g canned corn, drained
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Start by cutting half a cabbage into very thin slices. This will give your salad a nice texture and make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
- Transfer the sliced cabbage into a large mixing bowl. This is the base of your salad, providing a crunchy and fresh element.
Step 2: Add the Cucumber
- Take a cucumber, remove the tips, and then cut it in half. Slice each half into thin pieces. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and pairs perfectly with the cabbage.
- Add the sliced cucumber to the bowl with the cabbage.
Step 3: Chop the Chives
- Chop a handful of chives. The amount can be adjusted to your taste. Chives add a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Add the chopped chives to the bowl.
Step 4: Cube the Ham
- Cut 150g of ham into long slices and then into small cubes. The ham provides a savory and slightly salty flavor, making the salad more satisfying.
- Add the ham cubes to the bowl with the other ingredients.
Step 5: Add the Corn
- Open a can of corn, drain it, and measure out 200g. Corn adds a sweet and juicy element to the salad.
- Add the corn to the bowl.
Step 6: Add Lemon Juice
- Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the salad. Lemon juice adds a tangy freshness that brightens up the flavors.
Step 7: Add Mayonnaise
- Add 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise to the salad. Mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps to bind all the ingredients together.
- Mix all the ingredients very well until everything is evenly coated with the mayonnaise.
Step 8: Season the Salad
- Season the salad with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste if necessary.
- Give the salad one final mix to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
- Your delicious cabbage salad is now ready to be served. Transfer it to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.
- This salad is perfect as a side dish or even as a light main course. It’s so versatile and flavorful that it will become a staple in your meal rotation.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, you can add some grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and add more veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes.
- Different Dressings: Try substituting the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Dill, parsley, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a unique twist to your salad.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Simplicity: With just a few everyday ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and healthy salad in no time.
- Flavor Balance: The combination of fresh vegetables, savory ham, sweet corn, and tangy lemon juice creates a well-balanced flavor profile.
- Versatility: This salad can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Add or omit ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- Health Benefits: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, this salad is nutritious and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising on taste.
Final Thoughts:
This cabbage salad is a revelation. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or as a dish to impress your friends, it’s sure to be a hit. The best part is that it uses common ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Make this salad at home and see for yourself how delicious it is. Once you’ve tried it, come back and let me know what you think. I’m confident that this recipe will become a regular part of your meal planning.
