Greek Cabbage Salad Lahanosalata Recipe

Have you ever stumbled upon a recipe that feels like instant sunshine for your taste buds? This vibrant slaw, with its crunchy cabbage and zesty dressing, is precisely that. Let me share how this delightful dish became my go-to whenever I needed a splash of color and flavor in my culinary routine.

I enjoy making the colorful dishes. One of my favorites that really stands out in the color department is Greek Cabbage Salad, or Lahanosalata.

The recipe for this dish is so simple, yet it delivers an explosion of flavor and nutrients. Shredded cabbage sits at the heart of this dish, which is a great way to showcase nutrient-dense brassicas.

Carrots, red onion, and feta cheese round out the color and flavor palette.

Greek Cabbage Salad Lahanosalata Recipe Ingredients

• Green Cabbage: Rich in fiber, supports digestion, adds crunch.
• Red Onion: Packed with antioxidants, subtle sweetness, vibrant color.
• Carrots: High in beta-carotene, offers sweetness, supports eye health.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, adds richness, supports anti-inflammation.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Tangy flavor enhancer, aids digestion, boosts metabolism.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh acidity, high in vitamin C, brightens flavors.
• Parsley: Fresh herbaceous note, rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
• Feta Cheese: Creamy texture, optional, adds salty tang, contains protein.

Greek Cabbage Salad Lahanosalata Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 medium carrots, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

How to Make this Greek Cabbage Salad Lahanosalata Recipe

1. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the green cabbage (thinly sliced), the red onion (thinly sliced), the carrots (grated), and the fresh parsley (chopped).

2. In a small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking the olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and honey together until well combined.

3. Comb the dressing through the chopped vegetables in the large mixing bowl.

4. Blend all the components together well to coat the veggies uniformly with the dressing.

5. Add salt and pepper to the salad as seasonings and make adjustments to taste until it is the preferred flavor.

6. If you wish, you can also add some dried oregano to the salad. This is my favorite way of preparing it, and I always enjoy the extra layer of flavor the oregano gets in with the salad. I just mix it all together in a bowl and serve.

7. Allow the flavors to meld together by letting the salad sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.

8. Prior to serving, ensure that the salad is given one more toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom.

9. Feta cheese is a classic Greek salad ingredient that offers richness and sharpness. A crumbled feta garnish really ups the ante in terms of flavor. If you want a touch—and a crumble or two is all you need to make the effect work—it’s best to apply it dry, right before serving.

10. Present the salad as a side dish that can be served either chilled or at room temperature. It is a good partner for a warm-weather menu, and extends its virtue of versatility to almost any occasion.

Greek Cabbage Salad Lahanosalata Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Small bowl
3. Whisk
4. Cutting board
5. Chef’s knife
6. Vegetable peeler or box grater (for the carrots)
7. Measuring cups and spoons
8. Tongs or salad servers

FAQ

• Q: Can I make Lahanosalata ahead of time?A: Yes, it’s even better if it’s allowed to marinate in the fridge for an hour before serving. The flavors meld together.
• Q: How long does Lahanosalata keep in the fridge?A: An airtight container can hold it for up to 3 days, but it’s really tastiest when freshly consumed.
• Q: Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?A: Yes, you can use red cabbage for a different flavor and color, or a combination of both for added texture.
• Q: Is it necessary to add feta cheese?A: No, feta cheese is optional and can be excluded for a salad that is vegan.
• Q: What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?A: If needed, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
• Q: Can I make this salad spicier?A: Yes, incorporate a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a very finely chopped chili pepper to inject some heat.

Greek Cabbage Salad Lahanosalata Recipe Substitutions and Variations

One small head of green cabbage: Use napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture and taste.
1 small red onion, finely chopped: Use shallots or white onions for a mild-tasting onion.
1/4 cup olive oil. Avocado oil or a light vegetable oil are good substitutes.
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Substituting ingredients with a different acidity profile could also give your dish a whole new taste. You could try these substitutes:

Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a flavor profile that’s closer to the original dish.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Lime juice makes a great substitute and offers a tangier twist.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Ingredients Before starting, chill your veggies and dressing ingredients in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will enhance the crispness of the salad and make it even more refreshing.

2. Use a Mandoline Slicer For perfectly thin and uniform slices of cabbage and onion, use a mandoline slicer. This tool speeds up preparation time and ensures even textures throughout the salad.

3. Massage the Cabbage Before combining with other ingredients, gently massage the sliced cabbage with a sprinkle of salt for a few minutes. This helps to soften the cabbage slightly and enhance its ability to soak up the dressing flavor.

4. Customize the Dressing For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of Dijon mustard to the dressing. This will add a subtle tangy kick that pairs well with the salad’s overall flavors.

5. Make Ahead Tip Prepare the salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator without the feta cheese. This allows the flavors to meld more thoroughly. Add the crumbled feta fresh before serving to maintain its texture.