Summer just got a whole lot cooler, thanks to these 18 mouthwatering Napa cabbage salad recipes! As the temperature rises, our taste buds crave something light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Enter Napa cabbage, a humble ingredient that’s often overlooked but has endless possibilities when it comes to salads.
From spicy and savory to sweet and tangy, these unique recipes showcase the versatility of Napa cabbage in all its crunchy glory. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and simple or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered with our collection of summer-perfect salad ideas.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 refreshing Napa cabbage salads that are sure to become your go-to companions for outdoor gatherings, picnics, and even just a quick lunch. From creamy dressings to zesty marinades, get ready to fall in love with the humble head of Napa cabbage all over again.
Spicy Napa Cabbage Salad with Peanut Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Napa cabbage with the spicy kick of Korean chili flakes, all tied together with a creamy peanut dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/4 teaspoon of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons of water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, toasted peanuts, or crispy bacon for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and Korean chili flakes. Massage the mixture into the cabbage for about 5 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter and water until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the peanut dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in no time.
Asian-Inspired Napa Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the crunch of Napa cabbage with the bold flavors of sesame and ginger, perfect for topping your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Toss until cabbage is evenly coated.
2. Add garlic and toss again to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Crunchy Napa Cabbage and Apple Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Napa cabbage, the sweetness of apples, and the tanginess of honey mustard vinaigrette, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Fuji), diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Napa cabbage and diced apples.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve.
Tangy Napa Cabbage Salad with Lime and Cilantro
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of crunch, zest, and flavor, making it a great side dish or light lunch. The combination of tangy Napa cabbage, bright lime juice, and fragrant cilantro creates a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Napa cabbage and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the salad and toss again.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss one more time.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Korean-Style Napa Cabbage Salad with Gochujang Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of napa cabbage with the spicy kick of gochujang dressing, a staple Korean condiment. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the sliced cabbage to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Drizzle with vegetable oil and toss again to combine.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Light and Fresh Napa Cabbage Salad with Cucumber and Radish
This refreshing salad is a perfect combination of crunchy textures and subtle flavors, making it an ideal side dish or light lunch. With the sweetness of Napa cabbage, the coolness of cucumber, and the spiciness of radish, this salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red radish
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Napa cabbage, cucumber, and radish.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Napa Cabbage and Carrot Salad with Tahini Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Napa cabbage and carrots with the creamy richness of tahini dressing, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet and Sour Napa Cabbage Salad with Pineapple
Sweet and Sour Napa Cabbage Salad with Pineapple: A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this recipe combines the crunch of napa cabbage with the tanginess of sweet and sour flavors, all topped off with juicy pineapple chunks.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 1/4 cup of white vinegar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced napa cabbage, pineapple chunks, sugar, white vinegar, water, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
2. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Napa Cabbage Salad with Grilled Chicken and Avocado
A refreshing summer salad featuring grilled chicken, crispy Napa cabbage, creamy avocado, and a tangy dressing. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced Napa cabbage, diced avocado, and grilled chicken.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Napa Cabbage Salad with Miso Dressing
This refreshing salad combines crunchy Napa cabbage with a savory and tangy miso dressing, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. With its bold flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and toss until well combined.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Napa Cabbage and Edamame Salad with Soy-Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Napa cabbage, the sweetness of edamame, and the savory flavor of soy-sesame dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cooked edamame
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced Napa cabbage and cooked edamame.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thai-Inspired Napa Cabbage Salad with Coconut Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of napa cabbage with the bold flavors of Thailand, all tied together with a creamy coconut lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup of mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup of toasted coconut flakes
– 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced napa cabbage, mixed bell peppers, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a blender or food processor, mix together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, and grated ginger until smooth.
3. Pour the coconut lime dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Napa Cabbage and Jicama Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
A refreshing and crunchy salad perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, this Napa cabbage and jicama combination is elevated by the tangy and citrusy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium jicamas, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Napa cabbage and diced jicamas.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, olive oil, garlic, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the cabbage and jicama mixture; toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Crunchy Napa Cabbage Salad with Almonds and Cranberries
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of toasted almonds and the tanginess of Napa cabbage. A perfect blend of flavors and textures for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup of toasted almonds
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Napa cabbage, cranberries, and toasted almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Napa Cabbage and Shrimp Salad with Spicy Mayo
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of napa cabbage, the sweetness of succulent shrimp, and the kick of spicy mayonnaise. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup spicy mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sliced napa cabbage, cooked shrimp, and spicy mayonnaise. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Napa Cabbage Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Napa cabbage with the tanginess of feta cheese, the brininess of olives, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, feta cheese, olives, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Napa Cabbage and Mango Salad with Chili-Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Napa cabbage with the sweetness of mango, all tied together with a zesty chili-lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Napa cabbage and diced mango.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, and chopped jalapeño pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the salad and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quick Pickled Napa Cabbage Salad with Red Onion
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of pickled Napa cabbage with the sweetness of red onion, all in just a few minutes. Perfect as a side dish or added to sandwiches and wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 head Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and red onion.
2. In a small saucepan, bring vinegar, sugar, salt, and water to a boil over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Pour hot pickling liquid over the cabbage mixture. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing Napa cabbage salad recipes! From spicy and savory to sweet and tangy, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering options to keep you cool. Try Spicy Napa Cabbage Salad with Peanut Dressing, Asian-Inspired Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing, or Crunchy Apple Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette. Or go for something a little different like Korean-Style Salad with Gochujang Dressing or Mediterranean-inspired salad with Feta and Olives. Whatever your taste, we’ve got the perfect recipe to keep you refreshed all summer long.
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