Add a dash of zing to your meals with this Cabbage and Carrot Salad, a Lithuanian salad that's as easy to make as it is delicious! With just a hint of sweetness and no mayo in sight, it’s the ultimate slaw without mayo for those who love a fresh, tangy twist. This great side dish is perfect for everything from summer BBQs to cozy dinners, proving that sometimes, simplicity is the key to a perfect salad!
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Cabbage Takes Center Stage in Lithuanian Cooking
Cabbage takes center stage in Lithuanian cooking, finding its way into everything from sauerkraut and hearty cabbage soup to the ever-popular Lithuanian cabbage rolls and Cabbage Casserole With Cheese. It’s used excessively in countless dishes, and for good reason—it’s versatile, delicious, and budget-friendly.
But if you're looking for a quick and easy cabbage salad, this carrot cabbage salad is the way to go. It’s the kind of good slaw recipe that shines on summer menus, especially alongside grilled meats, but it’s also a staple in school and work canteens, often served as a side dish with pork escalopes. Simple, refreshing, and oh-so-Lithuanian!
Ingredient Notes
Fresh cabbage and carrots, plus a few pantry staples - that's all you'll need for this Lithuanian cabbage carrot slaw!
- cabbage: white or green cabbage is typically used, but we tried this Lithuanian salad with Napa Cabbage and Savoy Cabbage and both worked well.
- medium carrot: coarsely grated or julienned.
- vinegar: we used apple cider vinegar, but white wine or rice vinegar will work just as well. If you've run out of vinegar, you may use 2x the amount of freshly squeezed lemon juice (or lime juice, although not typically used in Lithuanian cuisine)
- sugar: may be replaced with honey or maple syrup.
- neutral oil or olive oil: sunflower oil is the most popular option in Lithuania.
- salt.
You can find ingredient quantities and detailed instructions on the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Extras For A Really Good Salad
- Add a thinly sliced bell pepper or spring onion to this salad.
- A touch of garlic in the dressing can also add a savoury twist!
- Experiment with fresh herbs: fresh mint, fresh parsley or dill!
- If you want even more crunchy texture in your salad, add some toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds or hemp seeds!
How To Cut Cabbage For Salad?
Start by removing any outer leaves that are wilted or damaged. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core from each section. Using a sharp knife, slice the cabbage into thin strips, aiming for even shreds. If you're short on time or prefer convenience, you can always grab a bag of pre-shredded cabbage from the store—just make sure it’s fresh and ready to go!
Method
1. Mix all the dressing ingredients (vinegar, sugar and oil) in a small bowl until sugar dissolves.
2. Add the shredded raw cabbage into a large bowl. Sprinkle it with salt and using your fingertips, massage the cabbage for 1-2 minutes until it softens significantly.
3. Add the grated carrots and salad dressing, and toss combine.
4. For best results, allow the cabbage and carrot salad to marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Storing Cabbage and Carrot Salad
This cabbage carrot salad is perfect for making a big batch and enjoying it throughout the week. To store, transfer any leftover salad into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge.
It’ll keep fresh for up to 3-4 days, though you might want to give it a quick toss before serving, as the flavors can develop and the cabbage may soften over time. Making this side salad ahead of time is a great way to ensure you always have a tasty side dish ready to go!
What To Serve Cabbage and Carrot Salad With?
This cabbage and carrot salad is the perfect side dish for just about any meal! It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken shashlik, adding a fresh crunch to your BBQ spread. For a more traditional Lithuanian touch, serve it alongside Lithuanian Pork Escalopes or Lithuanian Meatballs for a delicious, balanced, complete meal.
It’s also great with Chicken Kiev, where the tangy slaw complements the rich, buttery filling. No matter the main dish, this salad is sure to brighten up your plate!
More Lithuanian Summer Salad Recipes
If you’re looking to expand your collection of summer salads, here are some more classic Lithuanian options that are perfect for warm-weather meals!
- Carrot Salad with Sunflower Seeds
- Tomato Salad With Green Onions
- Lithuanian Cucumber Salad
- Lithuanian Garden Salad With Sour Cream
Lithuanian Cabbage and Carrot Salad (Slaw Without Mayo)
Ingredients
- ¼ small cabbage white or green (approx 370g), finely shredded
- 1 small carrot coarsely grated
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1½ tablespoon neutral oil or olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Mix vinegar, sugar and oil in a small bowl until sugar dissolves.
- Add the shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle it with salt and using your fingertips, massage the cabbage for 1-2 minutes until it softens significantly.
- Add the grated carrots and salad dressing, and toss combine.
- For best results, allow the cabbage and carrot salad to marinade for 30 minutes before serving.
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