Asian-Inspired Holiday Cabbage Salad

A crisp and festive cabbage salad with bright, tangy dressing, subtly sweetened and gently spiced with ginger. Topped with toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, scallions, fresh parsley, and a hint of orange zest, this salad delivers a perfect balance of crunch, aroma, and holiday flavor. Ideal as a refreshing side for glazed ribs, warm kale, or Asian-inspired holiday dishes.

Ingredients (4 servings)

• 300 g (about ½ medium) white cabbage, finely shredded

• 1–2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sugar or honey

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (rapeseed, sunflower, or mild olive oil)

• ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional, for a festive Asian touch)

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish / Toppings

• 1–2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

• 1–2 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts (or cashews)

• 1–2 tablespoons finely chopped green parts of scallions

• 1–2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley

• 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest

• Optional: pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat

• Optional: finely chopped dried cranberries for festive color

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage

   • Remove outer leaves if wilted.

   • Shred finely into 2–3 mm strips and place in a large mixing bowl.

2. Prepare the dressing

   • In a small bowl, mix vinegar, sugar or honey, salt, and oil.

   • Add grated ginger if using. Stir until sugar/honey dissolves and ingredients are well combined.

3. Massage the cabbage

   • Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage.

   • Use your hands or two spoons to massage gently for 1–2 minutes.

     • This softens the cabbage and helps the flavors penetrate.

4. Add optional heat

   • If desired, sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes and mix gently.

5. Add garnish

   • Just before serving, top with:

     • Toasted sesame seeds

     • Chopped peanuts or cashews

     • Finely chopped scallions

     • Parsley

     • Grated orange zest

     • Optional dried cranberries for festive color

6. Serve

   • Can be served immediately, or chilled for 30–60 minutes to let flavors develop.

   • This salad pairs perfectly with glazed ribs, warm kale, fries, or Asian-style sauces.

Tips

• For extra flavor, lightly toast the nuts and sesame seeds before garnishing.

• The salad can be made a day ahead; cover and refrigerate.

• Adjust sweetness, acidity, or heat according to your preference.