Simple Cabbage Salad (Zelka Salata)
I just love this salad, it’s a Balkan classic which is super simple to make and tastes delicious. As tradition would have it, I have grown up watching my dad, dedo (grandfather) and uncle eat this salad with a shot of warm rakia (Macedonian spirit) while the women in my family prepared dinner.
According to my dedo, salad before a meal helps to build up your appetite – I think he just enjoys the uninterrupted male conversation while the women are busy in the kitchen.
For me, this salad is great on its own as a light snack/appetizer (no rakia required) or for dinner served with fresh kjofte (meatballs) or pork.
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Recipe
Serves 4
Ingredients
1/2 a white cabbage, core removed, outer leaves discarded and finely shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar if you prefer a lighter dressing)
Sea salt to taste (freshly ground black pepper is optional)
Method
1) Shred cabbage as thinly as possible, using a sharp knife or on a mandolin (v slicer).
2) Place all ingredients in a bowl and toss well to combine. Serve immediately or allow to rest in the fridge for a few hours before your guests arrive, toss again and check the seasoning (it may need extra salt and vinegar/oil).
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Filed under Autumn, Balkan, Low Carb, Low Fat, Macedonian, Meze and Snacks, Salads, Side Dishes, Vegan, Vegetable, Vegetarian, Winter
are preserved and enjoyed
klubi
That’s what I can do with all the cabbage that’s growing in my garden!
admin
Yay, so excited to have my first comment!!!!
lasko
I had this at lunch today.. mmmm.
Zore
hhhmmm with grated green apple is nice too, and paprika sprinkled…x
Mike
Perfect with kebapi! To add a little more spice and colour, my kids love it with a teaspoon of paprika tossed through it.
admin
So many variations, I love it! Thanks for commenting :)
Annabel
I just googled the cabbage salad recipe and your page came up! Making it tonight. Will let you know how i go.