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–+ servings
Cabbage Salad
Cabbage Salad is a refreshing, slightly sweet and tangy dish that blends crisp vegetables with fruit and a creamy dressing. Popular in mid-century American kitchens, this type of salad reflects a time when cooks combined pantry staples like canned pineapple, raisins, and mayonnaise to create crowd-pleasing side dishes. The addition of apples and walnuts gives it texture and depth, while ginger and cinnamon add a subtle warmth that makes it unique among traditional coleslaws. Often served at potlucks, picnics, and family dinners, this salad balances crunch, sweetness, and acidity, making it a versatile and nostalgic addition to any meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 apples (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup pineapple tidbits (with juice reserved)
  • ½ cup raisins (soaked)
  • ½ cup walnuts (chopped )
  • 6 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup pineapple juice
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp vinegar (estimated)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Apples

  • Chop apples into small pieces.
  • Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Step 2: Soak Raisins

  • Soak raisins in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Drain before using.

Step 3: Combine Fruits and Nuts

  • In a large bowl, combine apples, pineapple tidbits, raisins, and chopped walnuts.

Step 4: Add Cabbage

  • Add shredded cabbage to the mixture.
  • Toss lightly to combine.

Step 5: Make Dressing

  • In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, pineapple juice, ginger, cinnamon, and vinegar.

Step 6: Combine Salad and Dressing

  • Pour dressing over the salad mixture.
  • Toss thoroughly until evenly coated.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Tips

  • Add shredded carrots for extra color and sweetness
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayo for a lighter version
  • Use pecans instead of walnuts
  • Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor
  • Chill overnight for deeper flavor
  • Include celery for extra crunch
  • Swap raisins for dried cranberries
  • Use red cabbage for a more vibrant presentation

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 4gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cabbage, creamy dressing, fruit salad, picnic, potluck, retro, salad, sweet and savory, vintage