Mexican Cabbage Salad

Ingredients:

½ medium cabbage (shredded)

2 small carrots (grated)

1 small red onion ( finely sliced)

2 limes (or 1 lemon)

1 tsp oregano (or more, to taste)

salt (to taste)

Instructions:

In a large bowl place cabbage, carrots and onions.

Add lime juice, oregano, and salt.

Toss for one or two minutes until the salad is coated with lime juice.

Adjust salt to taste and allow to rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information:

Recipe Variations

Even though the main ingredients for this Mexican slaw are only cabbage, white onions, and carrots, there are a few variations popular all over the country:

Red Onions: This type of onion brings some sweetness to the slaw and also a wonderful bright color.

Vinegar: The traditional recipe is made by macerating the vegetables just with lime juice, however, vinegar is one of the most popular variations as it adds a nice sour flavor and it helps the salad to last longer.

Cilantro: Many recipes also include chopped cilantro for a fresh kick.

Tomatoes: Sliced tomatoes help to balance the sourness and tartness of the other ingredients, definitely a nice addition.

Spicy: Add chiles en vinagre to stay on the sour flavor profile or sliced jalapeños and serrano chilies for a good punch of spiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use lemon instead of lime for this Mexican Cabbage Salad?

Yes, you can substitute lemon for lime if that’s what you have available.

It will still add a citrusy flavor to the salad.

Is it necessary to let the salad rest before serving, and why?

Allowing the salad to rest for 15 minutes before serving enhances the flavors as the ingredients absorb the lime juice and seasonings, providing a more well-balanced taste.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to customize this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to personalize the salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, tomatoes, or avocado to suit your taste preferences.

How finely should the cabbage be shredded for this salad?

Aim for a medium to fine shred for the cabbage.

Finely shredded cabbage allows for better absorption of the lime juice and flavors.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time for a party or gathering?

Yes, this salad can be prepared in advance. It’s actually recommended to make it ahead, allowing the flavors to meld, making it a convenient option for entertaining.

Just toss it again before serving to refresh the flavors.

How can I finely shred the cabbage for this Mexican Cabbage Salad?

You can use a sharp knife to finely shred the cabbage or use a mandoline or food processor for quicker and more consistent results.

Can I use store-bought shredded cabbage for convenience?

Yes, you can use pre-shredded cabbage from the store to save time, but ensure it’s fresh and crisp for the best texture.

Is it okay to prepare the Mexican Cabbage Salad without onions if I’m not a fan?

Absolutely! Feel free to omit the onions if you prefer or substitute them with a milder onion variety like green onions.

Can I make this salad ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep.

Prepare it in advance, and refrigerate it, but wait to add the lime juice until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or beans to make this salad a more substantial and satisfying meal.

Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.