This Beetroot, Carrot, and Cabbage Salad is so irresistible that it’s hard to stop eating once you’ve started! Packed with vibrant colors and nutritious ingredients like red beans, cabbage, and beetroot, this salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly healthy. The earthy sweetness of beetroot, the crunch of fresh cabbage, and the zest of lemon dressing combine perfectly to create a wholesome and flavorful meal or side dish. Plus, the added protein from red beans makes it a filling option for vegetarians or those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Ingredients

• ¼ head of cabbage
• 1 beetroot
• 1 large carrot
• 240 g (8.5 oz) red beans (boiled or canned)
• 1 onion
• Fresh parsley, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 50 ml (1.7 fl oz) olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• A pinch of sugar, to taste
• Optional: A mix of seeds (flaxseed, sunflower, pumpkin seeds) for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Cabbage

Start by finely cutting the quarter head of cabbage into thin strips, or use a special grater if you prefer a finer texture. Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle some salt over it. Using your hands, gently squeeze and massage the cabbage for a couple of minutes. This process helps soften the cabbage, making it more tender and allowing it to absorb the flavors better.

Step 2: Grating the Beetroot

Peel the beetroot and grate it using a medium or fine grater. Once grated, drizzle some olive oil over the beetroot and mix it in. The beetroot adds a deep, earthy sweetness and vibrant color to the salad, making it a star ingredient.

Step 3: Adding Carrots and Red Beans

Peel and grate the carrot and mix it with the softened cabbage. Next, add 240 g of red beans to the bowl. If you’re using canned beans, make sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly before adding them. The beans bring protein and a satisfying texture, turning this salad into a more substantial dish.

Step 4: Slicing the Onion and Chopping Parsley

Thinly slice the onion into crescent-shaped slivers and finely chop the fresh parsley. Both ingredients will add freshness and complexity to the salad. Add the onion and parsley to the bowl with the cabbage, carrots, and beans.

Step 5: Preparing the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the juice of half a lemon with 50 ml of olive oil. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar, adjusting the quantities to taste. The lemon adds a zesty kick that balances the natural sweetness of the beetroot and carrots, while the olive oil provides richness. Stir well until the dressing is emulsified.

Step 6: Toss and Garnish

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring that the dressing evenly coats the cabbage, beetroot, carrots, beans, onion, and parsley.

For an extra layer of texture and nutrition, sprinkle a mix of seeds (flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds) on top. This not only adds crunch but also increases the fiber and healthy fats in the salad.

Serving

Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together. It’s perfect on its own as a light meal or paired with grilled meat, fish, or a hearty soup.

Tips for Best Results

• Freshness: To retain the vibrant color and crunch of the vegetables, prepare the salad close to the time you plan to serve it.
• Customizations: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for added variety. You can also swap the red beans for chickpeas or black beans.
• Storage: The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Sugars: 8 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
• Sodium: 350 mg

Conclusion

This Beetroot, Carrot, and Cabbage Salad is a fantastic blend of freshness, crunch, and rich flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy healthy yet flavorful meals. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite!