Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Apples and Raisins

Crunchy Cabbage Slaw with Apples and Raisins is my favorite type of salad for dinner! It is sweet and fresh and just perfect for movie night if you desire a healthy and crunchy snack! It consists of a mix of white and purple cabbage, fresh carrot, apples, raisins, and cashew nuts, seasoned with Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing. It is just a new and healthy option for coleslaw. Delicious! Every forkful delivers a satisfying crunch from the cabbage and cashews, balanced by the natural sweetness of apple and raisins — all brightened with a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing that pulls everything together.

Can you eat cabbage raw like lettuce?

Yes, you can eat cabbage raw like lettuce! In fact, raw cabbage is often used in salads and slaws, as it provides a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet and savory taste. Both white and purple cabbage can be eaten raw, and they are often used interchangeably in recipes.

Are cabbages good for weight loss?

Yes, cabbages can be a good food choice for weight loss, as they are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help promote satiety and prevent overeating.

Cabbage is particularly low in calories, with one cup of chopped cabbage containing only 25 calories. It is also high in fiber, with one cup of chopped cabbage providing about 2 grams of fiber. The fiber in cabbage can help slow down digestion and keep you feeling full for longer periods of time, which may reduce overall calorie intake and promote weight loss.

Cabbage Salad with Apples and Raisins is a good choice to add to your diet as cabbages are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against cellular damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.

What is Crunchy Cabbage Salad made of?

Here is a description of each ingredient in the salad:

• White cabbage: A crunchy and slightly sweet vegetable that is high in fiber and vitamin C. It has a mild flavor and a dense texture that can hold up well in salads and slaws.
• Purple cabbage: A type of cabbage that is similar in texture and taste to white cabbage, but with a vibrant purple color. Purple cabbage contains anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that can help protect against cellular damage.
• Carrots: A sweet and crunchy vegetable that is high in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Carrots also contain fiber, vitamin K, and potassium, among other nutrients.
• Apples: A sweet and juicy fruit that is high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Apples also contain pectin, a type of fiber that can help promote satiety and aid in digestion. Perfect types for this salad are Gala, Pink Lady or Fuji apples.
• Raisins: Dried grapes that are sweet and chewy. Raisins are high in fiber, antioxidants, and minerals such as iron and potassium.
• Cashew nuts: A creamy and nutty nut that is high in protein, healthy fats, and minerals such as magnesium and zinc. Cashew nuts can provide a crunchy texture and a savory flavor to the salad.
• Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing: A tangy and sweet dressing made with apple cider vinegar, honey, mustard, and olive oil. The dressing provides a balanced flavor and adds moisture to the salad.

How to make Crunchy Cabbage Salad?

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded white cabbage and purple cabbage. Add cut carrot and apple. Sprinkle with raisins, and chopped cashew nuts. Prepare Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing, pour it over the salad mixture and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve your Cabbage Salad with Apples and Raisins and enjoy!

How long does cabbage salad last in the fridge?

Cabbage salad can last in the fridge for up to 3–4 days if stored properly. To store the salad, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator as soon as possible after making it. This will help keep the salad fresh and prevent it from spoiling.

It’s worth noting that the salad may lose its crunchiness and texture over time as the dressing and other ingredients soften the cabbage and other vegetables. If you prefer a crunchy texture, add the dressing just before serving, or keep the dressing in a separate container and add it to the Cabbage Salad with Apples and Raisins just before eating.

A Note from Chef Ana

This Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Apples and Raisins is one of those dishes I find myself making again and again for my clients across The Woodlands, Spring, and the greater Houston area. The combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, chewy raisins, and toasted cashews dressed in a bright apple cider vinegar dressing is a crowd-pleaser every single time. Drawing on my European culinary training, I love building salads with contrasting textures and bold, tangy dressings — and I always source the freshest seasonal produce I can find from local farms and markets here in Texas.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party, planning a celebration, or simply want a wholesome meal for your family, I would love to bring this recipe — and many more — to your table. Feel free to reach out to learn more about my personal and private chef services in The Woodlands, Spring, Tomball, Conroe, and the greater Houston area.

Substitutions & Variations

As a personal chef who specializes in dietary accommodations, I always encourage my clients to adapt recipes to their individual needs. Here are some practical variations for this recipe:

• Nut-Free: Substitute nuts with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or toasted coconut flakes for a similar crunch without the allergen concern.
• Low-Sodium: Reduce or omit added salt and use herbs, citrus zest, and spices for flavor instead. Fresh lemon juice and freshly cracked black pepper can brighten any dish without extra sodium.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, and it actually improves with time. Unlike leafy green salads, shredded cabbage holds up well when dressed. You can toss the salad with the dressing and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours — the cabbage softens slightly and absorbs more flavor, becoming even more delicious.

What is the best apple variety for this salad?

Crisp, sweet-tart varieties like Gala, Pink Lady, or Fuji work best. They hold their shape when diced and their natural sweetness complements the tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. Avoid soft varieties like McIntosh, which turn mealy quickly.

Can I use a different nut instead of cashews?

Absolutely. Toasted walnuts, sliced almonds, or pecans are all excellent substitutes. For a nut-free version, try roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds — they provide the same satisfying crunch.

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