Cabbage Salad with Basil

This vibrant cabbage salad with basil is a delightful fusion of crisp textures and fresh flavors. It combines the wholesome crunch of cabbage with the earthy sweetness of beets and the zesty punch of onions. Black currants and red currants add a unique fruitiness, while basil adds a fragrant herbal note. A simple drizzle of oil ties all the ingredients together, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and refreshing. Whether you're looking for a healthy side dish or a light meal, this salad is versatile and easy to prepare. Its ingredients are not only wholesome but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it an excellent addition to any diet. You'll love how the flavors and textures come together in every bite. The salad's vibrant colors make it as visually appealing as it is delicious, appealing to both adults and kids alike. Prepare this salad in just a few minutes, and enjoy it on its own or as a complement to your favorite main dishes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 small cabbage
• 3 small red beets (including leaves)
• 1 onion
• 150g black currants
• 50g basil
• 1 tablespoon oil

Spices and Sauces

• Red currants to taste
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing the cabbage, beets, and onion thoroughly. Remove any wilted leaves from the cabbage and peel the onion.
2. Chop the Cabbage: Finely shred the cabbage into thin slices using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniformity.
3. Slice the Beets: Cut the beets into thin slices, including the leaves, if they are fresh and healthy. This will add both flavor and nutrition to your salad.
4. Dice the Onion: Finely dice the onion, ensuring that the pieces are small enough to distribute evenly throughout the salad.
5. Mix the Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced beets, and diced onion.
6. Add the Currants: Add the black currants and red currants to the bowl. Adjust the amount according to your preference for sweetness.
7. Season the Salad: Season the salad with salt and pepper. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste.
8. Chop the Basil: Finely chop the basil leaves and add them to the salad. The basil will provide a fresh and aromatic flavor.
9. Dress with Oil: Drizzle the salad with a tablespoon of oil. You can use olive oil for a richer flavor.
10. Toss the Salad: Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with oil.
11. Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
12. Let the Flavors Marry: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving, so the flavors can develop further.
13. Chill if Desired: For a refreshing twist, you may choose to chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before serving.
14. Serve the Salad: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with a few additional basil leaves for presentation.
15. Enjoy Your Meal: Pair this delicious salad with a hearty main course or enjoy it on its own as a light meal.

Tips

• Oil Alternatives: Try using a nut oil, like walnut or hazelnut oil, for a different flavor profile.
• Freshness: Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor; dried herbs won't provide the same aroma or taste.
• Nutrient Boost: Add some nuts or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
• Protein: 2g
• Fats: 5g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• For a tangy twist, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
• Vegetarian adaptation: Enhance the protein content by adding some grilled tofu or chickpeas.
• Herb swap: Substitute basil with fresh mint or cilantro for a different aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
• Serve it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread.
• Accompany it with a light, white wine or a fresh lemonade.

Best Places

• Le Jardin d'Hiver - A French-inspired café known for its fresh and vibrant salads. Location: 123 Champs-Elysées, Paris, France.
• Greenhouse Delight - A bistro famous for its farm-to-table concept and fresh ingredients. Location: 45 Botanical Lane, Wellington, New Zealand.
• Salad & Co - Offers a wide variety of creative salads to suit all tastes. Location: 89 Green Street, Dublin, Ireland.
• The Veggie Grill - A popular spot for vegetarian and vegan dishes with innovative salads. Location: 200 Sunny Boulevard, Los Angeles, USA.
• Café Flora - Known for its fresh and organic ingredients in every dish. Location: 15 Garden Way, Sydney, Australia.
• Herbivore Haven - Offers a delightful range of vegetarian and vegan salads. Location: 25 Leafy Road, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Green Beginnings - A charming café offering fresh and flavorful salads using local produce. Location: 78 Orchard Avenue, Toronto, Canada.
• Eco-Eats - Promoting sustainability through fresh and locally-sourced salads. Location: 56 Alpine Drive, Zurich, Switzerland.
• Fresh Fields - Known for its seasonal salads featuring locally grown ingredients. Location: 39 Meadow Lane, Edinburgh, Scotland.
• The Green Fork - Celebrated for inventive salads and plant-based meals. Location: 102 River Street, Singapore, Singapore.