Napa Cabbage Picnic Salad Serves A Bunch!
A crunchy, refreshing Napa Cabbage Picnic Salad with green onions and water chestnuts, perfect for outdoor gatherings and light, flavorful side dish options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the large head of Napa cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the green onions into bite-sized pieces.
- Drain the can of sliced water chestnuts.
- Combine the cabbage, green onions, and water chestnuts in a large air-tight container.
- Store in the refrigerator and serve chilled. This salad can be made up to 3 days ahead.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider including shredded carrots or bell peppers. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, a handful of raisins or dried cranberries can complement the flavors nicely. You can also substitute the water chestnuts with sliced almonds for a nutty twist. For a lighter dressing, mix in a splash of vinegar or sesame oil for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks and pairs beautifully with Easy Deer Chops for a heartier meal. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a refreshing side to spicy dishes. To elevate the presentation, garnish with sesame seeds or additional sliced green onions before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the salad in an air-tight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It can last up to three days. If you notice the ingredients wilting, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of your favorite dressing before serving to revive the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Napa Cabbage Picnic Salad Serves A Bunch! contains roughly 17 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be great additions to make this salad more filling. Just be sure to adjust the dressing accordingly to ensure it complements the added protein.
Is there a dressing that goes well with this salad?
A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, rice vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil works wonderfully. You can also experiment with a creamy dressing if you prefer a richer flavor.
Can I use regular cabbage instead of Napa cabbage?
Yes, you can use regular green cabbage, but keep in mind that Napa cabbage is more tender and has a milder flavor. The texture and taste will differ slightly, but the salad will still be delicious!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).