Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Dijon-Lime Dressing Bliss

Posted on December 3, 2025

There’s nothing quite like the crisp, refreshing bite of a Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Dijon-Lime Dressing on a warm summer day! I remember those sunny afternoons spent munching on salads in my backyard, the vibrant colors practically singing with flavor. This salad is a breeze to whip up—just a little chopping and mixing, and you’ve got a gorgeous, zesty dish that’ll brighten any meal. The combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and a tangy dressing is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you taste this salad, you’ll be hooked on its freshness and ease of preparation!

Ingredients List

1 medium green cabbage, shredded
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon honey (adjust based on your sweetness preference)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Dijon-Lime Dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing this Crunchy Cabbage Salad is as easy as pie—well, easier! Start by grabbing a large bowl and toss in the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro. Give it a good stir to mix all those fabulous colors together.

Now, let’s whip up that zesty dressing! In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I love to make sure it’s well combined; the dressing should be smooth and creamy. Once it’s ready, pour that gorgeous dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until it’s all beautifully coated. Yum!

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes—this waiting game allows the flavors to meld and makes each bite even more delicious. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and watch it disappear!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Loaded with fresh, vibrant vegetables that are as nutritious as they are delicious.
The zesty Dijon-lime dressing adds a punch of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
Low in calories but high in crunch, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Customizable to fit your preferences—add proteins or swap in seasonal veggies for variety.
It’s vegan-friendly, so everyone can enjoy this refreshing salad!

Tips for Success

To get the most out of your Crunchy Cabbage Salad, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure to shred the cabbage thinly for that perfect crunch—this makes it easier to eat and helps it soak up the dressing. If you like a bit of sweetness, feel free to adjust the honey in the dressing to your taste. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some chopped nuts or seeds right before serving; they give a delightful crunch! And don’t forget to plate it beautifully—arranging the salad in a colorful bowl makes it even more inviting!

Variations

The beauty of this Crunchy Cabbage Salad is how easily you can make it your own! Want to amp up the protein? Toss in some grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even crispy tofu for a satisfying meal. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the Dijon-lime dressing for a sesame-ginger dressing for a whole new flavor profile. You can also add seasonal vegetables—think diced apples in the fall or juicy mango in the summer for a sweet twist. And if you’re a fan of crunch, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some sunflower seeds or crunchy noodles for texture. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to try your favorite combination!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutritional data for a serving of my Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Dijon-Lime Dressing. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!

Calories: 150
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

This salad not only satisfies your crunch cravings but also packs a nutritious punch! Enjoy knowing you’re treating your body well while indulging in such a delightful dish.

FAQ Section

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! This Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Dijon-Lime Dressing can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain that delightful crunch.

What can I substitute for honey? If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave nectar works wonderfully as a substitute. Maple syrup is another great choice if you want a slightly different flavor profile. Just adjust the amount to your taste!

Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, it is! All the ingredients used in this salad are naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long will leftovers last? You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just know that the cabbage may lose some crunch over time, but it’ll still be tasty!

Can I add protein to this salad? Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even beans like chickpeas would be excellent additions that will make this salad even more satisfying and nutritious. BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps are a delicious option to consider!