Classic Cabbage Salad is a simple no-mayo cabbage salad recipe that’s light, flavorful, and easy to make for BBQs or weeknight dinners.
No cookout would be complete without some cool Sides like Easy Coleslaw or Macaroni Salad. This cabbage slaw is a fresh alternative that packs a lot of flavor without a lot of calories.
Sabrina’s Classic Cabbage Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a light and healthy side, look no further than Classic Cabbage Salad. It comes together in minutes, and doesn’t need to sit long before serving. The tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing change to coleslaw, and is a great option for folks who aren’t a fan of mayo-based dressings. Furthermore, you can use it to top Fish Tacos and Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Which adds a nice crisp contrast to these warmer, richer recipes. I’ve listed other ideas to serve, plus check out the Related Recipes section below to see how versatile cabbage is!
Recipe Card


Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 head green cabbage , core removed and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup parsley , minced
Instructions
- In a large bowl whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, lemon zest, salt and black pepper.
- Add the cabbage and parsley, toss to coat.
- Let sit for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Chef’s Note
If I have extra time and want to make my salad extra crisp, I start by slicing the cabbage and tossing it with a little salt. Let the salted cabbage sit in the colander to drain out excess moisture that the salt helps suck out. I usually only do this step if I’m making the salad in advance, as it helps keep the cabbage crunchy longer.
Table of contents
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, this can be made ahead of time. Letting the salad sit for a bit before serving allows the flavors to meld together. Simply make the salad according to the instructions and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the cabbage may release some liquid over time, so you’ll want to drain it before serving.
How to Store
- Serve: Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving so that the dressing has time to soak into the leaves for the best flavor and texture.
- Store: To store, place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give the salad a good toss. It’s important to keep the salad in an airtight container as it can absorb odors from other foods and can become soggy.
- Freeze: It is not recommended to freeze as the cabbage will become mushy and the dressing will lose its texture when thawed.
Ideas to serve
- Side Dish: This is a great side dish to serve alongside all your favorite grilled meats, fish, or poultry dishes. Take it to your summer barbecues and potlucks in place of heavy mayo based salads.
- Salads and Bowls: A light, healthy raw cabbage salad is a good way to add more vitamins and fiber to healthy bowls and salads. Try a Brown Rice bowl topped with Baked Salmon and add this tasty salad for a heart healthy light meal.
Related Recipes
Delicious Cabbage Recipes










