Orange Red Cabbage Salad with Pomegranate Seeds

Name: Orange Red Cabbage Salad with Pomegranate Seeds
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded red cabbage; 1 cup pomegranate seeds; 2 medium oranges, peeled and segmented; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Eats

A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the crunch of red cabbage with the sweetness of pomegranate seeds and the zest of orange.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T19:29:51.359Z

This Orange Red Cabbage Salad with Pomegranate Seeds is not just a feast for the eyes but also a deliciously healthy addition to any meal. The combination of crunchy cabbage, juicy pomegranate seeds, and zesty oranges makes it a perfect side dish for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Salad
        Bright colors that make any table pop
Sweet and tangy flavor profile that refreshes the palate
Packed with nutrients and antioxidants

      

Health Benefits of Red Cabbage

Red cabbage is not only beautiful but also a powerhouse of nutrients. It is rich in vitamins C and K, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and strong bones. Additionally, red cabbage is high in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give it that vibrant color and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Including red cabbage in your diet can support digestive health thanks to its high fiber content. Fiber helps regulate digestion and can prevent constipation. Plus, with its low-calorie count, red cabbage is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight while enjoying flavorful meals.

Why Pomegranate Seeds Are a Superfood

Pomegranate seeds are often hailed as a superfood due to their impressive nutritional profile. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Eating pomegranate seeds can help improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, thanks to their high levels of punicalagins.

Moreover, these little seeds are known to enhance memory function and reduce inflammation in the body. Their juicy sweetness perfectly complements the crunch of red cabbage, making this salad not only delicious but also incredibly beneficial for your health.

Perfect Pairings for Your Salad

This Orange Red Cabbage Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a fantastic side dish for barbecues or dinner parties. The sweet and tangy flavor of the salad complements the savory notes of grilled chicken or steak, adding a refreshing contrast to the meal.

For a vegetarian twist, serve this salad alongside roasted chickpeas or quinoa dishes. The combination of flavors and textures will elevate your dining experience, making this salad a versatile addition to any table. Don't hesitate to experiment with different proteins or grains to find your perfect pairing!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups shredded red cabbage
1 cup pomegranate seeds
2 medium oranges, peeled and segmented
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients, you are ready to create your salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, pomegranate seeds, orange segments, and chopped parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Toss the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately!

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for a day.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Orange Red Cabbage Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare some of the components in advance to save time. Shred the cabbage and segment the oranges a day ahead, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, you can quickly assemble the salad when you're ready to serve it.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will keep for about 2-3 days, but keep in mind that the cabbage may become a bit softer over time. To maintain its crunch, consider adding the dressing right before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences! You can add ingredients like sliced almonds for an extra crunch or crumbled feta cheese for a creamy texture. For a bit of heat, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try substituting the oranges with sliced apples or pears. This will add a different sweetness and dimension to the salad, while still keeping it fresh and vibrant. The options are endless, so get creative!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

→ What can I substitute for pomegranate seeds?

You can use cranberries or diced apples as a substitute if pomegranate seeds are unavailable.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based and suitable for a vegan diet.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

You can add chickpeas or quinoa to make it a heartier meal.