Napa cabbage: The vibrant star of refreshing summer salads
Napa cabbage salad offers a refreshing alternative to traditional white cabbage dishes. Its leaves boast a satisfying crunch but are slightly more tender. While many associate napa cabbage with fast food or heavier salads like those à la gyros, it shines with a lighter dressing.
Napa cabbage is low in calories and rich in vitamins—particularly C, K, and B—as well as minerals and fibre. It's packed with antioxidants that help protect cells from damage, and its culinary versatility is noteworthy. Napa cabbage can be enjoyed raw or incorporated into cooked meals. It enhances traditional vegetable salads and is ideal for wrapping stuffed cabbage.
Napa cabbage or Chinese lettuce?
Napa cabbage originates from East Asia, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Its most extensive plantations are found in China; it has spread across continents. This plant favours a cooler climate, thriving best in moderate temperatures.
Interestingly, napa cabbage is also commonly called "Chinese lettuce" in Asian countries. It is a staple ingredient in many dishes, including kimchi, and is popular with Canadians.
Napa cabbage salad with pepper and carrot
Below is a recipe for a salad with a honey vinaigrette. If these flavours aren't your liking, try a simple dressing with olive oil and lemon juice. You can also add parsley or fresh dill for extra flavour.
Ingredients:
- half a head of napa cabbage
- 1 carrot
- 1 red pepper
- 3 tablespoons of vegetable or olive oil
- juice of half a lemon
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- salt and pepper to taste.
Method:
- Shred the napa cabbage into fine strips. Peel the carrot and grate it using a coarse grater. Remove the seeds from the pepper and slice it into strips.
- Combine all the vegetables in a bowl and mix well.
- In a cup, mix the oil with honey and lemon juice. Drizzle this dressing over the salad and toss with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Other napa cabbage salads
Napa cabbage is an excellent base for a variety of salads. A popular version combines it with pineapple and corn. The tender cabbage, sweet pineapple, and crunchy corn make for a delightful blend—perfect alongside classic pork chops or roasted chicken. For a light and refreshing touch, top the salad with olive oil or natural yogurt.
