Name: Swedish Pizza Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1/2 head green cabbage, finely shredded (6-8 cups); 1 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup white wine vinegar (or white vinegar); 2-3 tablespoons sugar (optional); 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional); 3/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 pinches crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Introduction

Swedish Pizza Salad is a crisp, tangy side that perfectly complements rich and savory dishes, especially pizza. Made with finely shredded cabbage and a zesty, herb-infused dressing, this salad is both refreshing and easy to prepare.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a shredded cabbage salad mixed with small pieces of onion and sprinkled with black pepper and herbs, creating a light green and white texture with specks of black and red. Two silver tongs hold some of the salad in the bowl, lifting the thin cabbage strips. In the background, there are blurred jars of reddish sauce and a white marbled surface underneath the bowl with a green and white checkered cloth partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 head green cabbage, finely shredded (6-8 cups)
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar (or white vinegar)
2-3 tablespoons sugar (optional)
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 pinches crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Finely shred the cabbage or slice it into very thin ribbons.
Step 2: Place the cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with the salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage with your hands until it begins to release its juices. Set aside for 5-10 minutes.
Step 3: Meanwhile, make the dressing by combining olive oil, white wine vinegar, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: After the cabbage has rested, add the dressing and toss well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed.
Step 6: Cover the salad and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Step 7: Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite main dishes.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
Substitute apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter and fruitier dressing.
Adding thinly sliced red onions can provide additional crunch and sharpness.
If you prefer a crunchier salad, serve it immediately after mixing instead of marinating.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will intensify as it sits, making it even tastier. Give it a quick stir before serving. Reheating is not necessary; this salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl full of thinly sliced pale yellow and white cabbage mixed with small bits of diced white onions, all lightly coated with herbs and black pepper flakes giving specks of dark green and black throughout. Two silver tongs hold the cabbage slightly lifted from the bowl, showing the curly, soft texture of the cabbage strands. In the blurred background, there is a jar of red sauce and a glass with a light yellow drink, all set on a white marbled surface with a green and white checkered cloth partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular vinegar instead of white wine vinegar?

Yes, white vinegar works well as a substitute. It will provide similar acidity, though the flavor may be slightly sharper.

Is it necessary to massage the cabbage with salt?

Massaging the cabbage helps soften it and encourages it to release moisture, resulting in a more tender salad with better texture.