This Chinese Cabbage Salad is the perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and tanginess that will brighten up any meal. Bursting with vibrant colors and loaded with fresh ingredients, this salad isn’t just a side dish; it can stand alone as a light lunch or a refreshing dinner. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures, from the crunchy cabbage to the juicy mandarin oranges, and the toasted almonds add a nutty richness that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just need a quick dish for a weeknight dinner, this Chinese Cabbage Salad will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why It’s My Go-To

There are countless reasons why this Chinese Cabbage Salad is my go-to recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile; you can adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand. The flavor combination is both refreshing and satisfying, making it a great accompaniment to grilled meats or a standalone dish. Plus, it comes together in a flash—perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With easy prep and minimal cooking, this salad is a consistent winner.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this vibrant Chinese Cabbage Salad, gather the following ingredients:

14 oz red and green cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrot, grated
1 cup yellow bell pepper, chopped
3 whole green onions, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, fresh, chopped
11 oz can mandarin oranges, well-drained
1 cup chow mein noodles
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/3 cup red onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1 1/2 teaspoons ginger, finely minced
1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon white vinegar
2 tablespoons canola oil or vegetable oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

What’s in the Gear List

To whip up this delicious Chinese Cabbage Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools:

Large mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: To mix the salad without damaging delicate ingredients.
Sharp knife: For chopping vegetables and fruits efficiently.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accuracy in your ingredient proportions.

Method: Chinese Cabbage Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by shredding the red and green cabbage and placing it in a large mixing bowl. Next, grate the carrot, chop the yellow bell pepper, green onions, and red onion, and add them to the bowl with the cabbage.

Step 2: Add the Fresh Herbs

Chop the fresh cilantro and toss it into the bowl. The cilantro will add a refreshing note to your Chinese Cabbage Salad.

Step 3: Include the Sweet Elements

Open the can of mandarin oranges and drain them well. Add the oranges to the salad mixture for a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory ingredients.

Step 4: Toss in the Crunch

Next, add the chow mein noodles and toasted sliced almonds to the bowl. These ingredients will provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, white vinegar, canola oil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This dressing will tie all the flavors of your Chinese Cabbage Salad together.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, allow your salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This time lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

To personalize your Chinese Cabbage Salad and incorporate seasonal ingredients, consider these flavorful additions:

Apple slices: For a sweet and crunchy twist in the fall.
Pomegranate seeds: To add a burst of color and tartness during the winter months.
Grilled chicken or shrimp: For a protein boost in the summer.
Avocado chunks: To add creaminess throughout the year.

Behind the Recipe

This Chinese Cabbage Salad draws inspiration from traditional Asian salads, which often feature crisp vegetables and a balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of crunchy cabbage and sweet mandarin oranges creates a lively and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. The use of chow mein noodles adds a delightful crunch, while the toasted almonds enhance the overall nutty flavor profile. Each ingredient plays an important role in not only the taste but also the visual appeal of the salad.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you’re looking to make this Chinese Cabbage Salad ahead of time, here are a few tips:

Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the crunch: To maintain the crunchiness of the chow mein noodles and almonds, consider adding them just before serving.
Dressing on the side: If you’re prepping in advance, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for red and green cabbage, feel free to use Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for the mandarin oranges?

If you don’t have mandarin oranges, you can use fresh orange segments or even sliced strawberries for a sweet twist.

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you love heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for an extra kick!

Is there a vegan version of this salad?

This Chinese Cabbage Salad is already vegan-friendly, as all the ingredients are plant-based. Just ensure that the soy sauce you use is vegan.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you enjoyed this Chinese Cabbage Salad, you might also like:

Asian Noodle Salad: A deliciously satisfying dish with similar flavors.
Vegan Sesame Noodles: Perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Quick Spring Rolls: A fresh appetizer to accompany your salad.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light and zesty side that pairs well with any meal.

Bring It to the Table

This Chinese Cabbage Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. It makes a beautiful addition to any table setting, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables and the inviting aroma of the dressing will have everyone eager to dig in. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, as it’s sure to impress!

Your next meal is just moments away. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get mixing!