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; 2 oranges, peeled and segmented; 1 cup pomegranate seeds; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Nourishing Meal Ideas

This refreshing Orange Red Cabbage Salad with Pomegranate Seeds is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T23:22:51.916Z

This vibrant salad not only brings a burst of color to your table but is also packed with nutrients. The combination of crisp red cabbage, juicy oranges, and crunchy pomegranate seeds offers a delightful contrast in every bite.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Crisp texture from fresh cabbage
Bursting with refreshing citrus flavor
A beautiful presentation that impresses guests

      

Flavorful Ingredients

This Orange Red Cabbage Salad features a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that contribute to its vibrant flavor profile. The crunch of shredded red cabbage offers a satisfying base, while the juicy orange segments provide a refreshing citrus burst. Adding pomegranate seeds not only enhances the flavor but also adds a visually appealing pop of color, making this salad a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Fresh cilantro introduces an aromatic herbaceous note, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the oranges and the tartness of the pomegranate. Additionally, sliced almonds offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender cabbage and juicy fruit. Together, these ingredients create a salad that is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor.

Health Benefits

This salad is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. Red cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, which are essential for immune function and bone health, respectively. The addition of oranges brings in a hefty dose of vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties and role in skin health.

Pomegranate seeds are rich in antioxidants and have been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation. This salad is a wonderful way to incorporate these superfoods into your diet, making it a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a holiday feast, or simply looking for a healthy side dish for a weeknight meal, this Orange Red Cabbage Salad fits the bill. Its eye-catching presentation is sure to impress guests, and the refreshing flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the occasion without spending too much time in the kitchen.

This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. Its balance of flavors and textures ensures that it will be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups shredded red cabbage
2 oranges, peeled and segmented
1 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to prepare the salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Make the Dressing

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

Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, cilantro, sliced almonds, and red onion.

Toss with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the best flavor.

Your colorful salad is now ready to be served!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the cabbage may soften over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. To maintain its crispness, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing it with the salad just before serving.

If you're preparing this salad in advance for an event, you can chop all the ingredients and store them separately. Combine them and add the dressing just before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. You can add other ingredients such as diced apples for added sweetness, crumbled feta cheese for a salty contrast, or even swap out the almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad a complete dish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to enjoy this salad in various ways throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

This Orange Red Cabbage Salad is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, making it an ideal companion for summer barbecues or holiday feasts. It also pairs well with rich dishes, providing a refreshing contrast that balances heavier flavors.

For a light lunch, serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a protein of your choice. Its versatility makes it suitable for any meal, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but it's best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the cabbage crisp.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can add sliced apples, pears, or even grapes for a variety of flavors.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly as long as you use a plant-based honey alternative.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.