Cabbage and Beet Leaf Salad with Currants

This delightful salad combines the crispness of cabbage with the earthy flavors of beet leaves and the refreshing taste of currants. It's a superb choice for those looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying dish that's rich in flavors and nutrients. The unique combination of dill and lovage adds an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the refreshing kefir. This recipe is quick to prepare and makes for an excellent starter or side dish. It's perfect for a warm day when you're craving something healthy yet indulgent. The salad is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, making it a great choice for health-conscious individuals. With the addition of scallions, you'll get that subtle oniony bite, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Plus, the red currants not only add a pop of color but also a tartness that balances the creaminess of the kefir. Enjoy this dish as a standalone salad or pair it with your favorite main course for a full meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 small head of cabbage
10 small beet leaves
10 scallions
10 lettuce leaves
2-3 cups of kefir

Herbs and Spices

5 g dill
5 g lovage
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

For Decoration

Currants

Preparation Time

Total: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Pat them dry to remove excess water.
Chop the Ingredients: Finely chop the cabbage, beet leaves, and lettuce leaves. Make sure the pieces are bite-sized but not too small to lose texture.
Slice the Scallions: Cut the scallions into thin rounds for a mild, onion-like flavor.
Herbs and Mix: Chop the dill and lovage finely to release their aromatic qualities.
Combine in a Bowl: Take a large salad bowl and mix all the chopped vegetables and herbs together.
Season the Salad: Add salt and pepper to taste, being careful not to overpower the fresh flavors of the greens.
Add the Kefir: Pour the kefir over the salad ingredients. It's best to start with two cups and add more if you prefer a creamier texture.
Mix Gently: Use salad tongs to gently toss the salad until the kefir evenly coats all the ingredients.
Check Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a pinch more salt or pepper if you desire.
Plate the Salad: For an elegant presentation, place the salad on a small cabbage leaf on each serving plate.
Decorate: Top the salad with a few red currants and a single beet leaf for decoration.
Serve: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Store Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, cover the salad and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Enjoy: Sit back, and savor the combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and kefir.
Experiment with Additions: Next time, consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Tweak for More Flavor: A drizzle of olive oil can add another layer of richness.
Make it a Main Dish: Add grilled chicken or tofu to transform this salad into a more filling entrée.
Vegan Version: Substitute kefir with a plant-based yogurt for a vegan version.
Adjust for Picky Eaters: If serving to children, reduce the amount of herbs for a milder taste.
Explore Pairings: This salad pairs wonderfully with fresh bread or a cheese platter.

Tips

Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt instead of kefir for a thicker texture.
Herbal Variations: Experiment with parsley or fresh basil for a different aromatic profile.
Texture Tip: For added crunch, include chopped almonds or walnuts.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
Protein: 5 g
Fats: 4 g
Carbs: 20 g

Variations

Gluten-Free: Ensure the kefir used is certified gluten-free.
Low-Fat: Use low-fat kefir to reduce calorie content.
Dairy-Free: Try coconut milk yogurt as a substitute for a lactose-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a light soup or grilled fish.
Garnishes: Sprinkle with additional dill or lovage for extra flavor.
Beverage Pairing: A chilled white wine or herbal tea complements this dish well.

Best Places

The Green Table - Known for its farm-to-table concept with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Location: 75 9th Ave, New York, USA
Leafy Café - Offers innovative vegetarian dishes with a European flair. Location: 33 Rue de Chabrol, Paris, France
Roots Eatery - Celebrated for its organic salad menu and wholesome dishes. Location: 48 Berwick St, London, UK
Veg Delight - Features a variety of creative salads and plant-based meals. Location: 22 Wellington St, Toronto, Canada
The Earth Plate - A sustainable restaurant with a commitment to green eating. Location: Strada Nicolae Filipescu 53-55, Bucharest, Romania
Salad Shots - Specializes in seasonal salads using local ingredients. Location: Friedrichstraße 207, Berlin, Germany
Greens & Grains - A contemporary spot for fresh, vibrant salads and grains. Location: 208 Pitt St, Sydney, Australia
Harvest Bowl - Offers a menu rich in salads with international inspirations. Location: Calle de Jose Abascal, 56, Madrid, Spain
Garden Gourmet - Focused on serving healthy, nutrient-rich dishes in a cozy setting. Location: Viale dei Parioli, 95, Rome, Italy
The Salad Bar - Known for customizable salads and healthy sides. Location: Rua Alexandre Herculano, 11, Lisbon, Portugal

Enjoy creating and indulging in this refreshing cabbage and beet leaf salad!