Peggy'S Nappa Salad
A crunchy, savory cabbage salad with toasted almonds and sesame seeds, coated in a tangy sweet and sour dressing—perfect for potlucks and summer barbecues.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the napa cabbage and green onions, then refrigerate in a bag.
- Saute until browned and cool the oleo, ramen noodles, sesame seed, and almonds separately.
- Boil sugar, vinegar, oil, and soy sauce for 1 minute, then cool the mixture.
- Combine the chopped vegetables with the cooled toasted ingredients.
- Pour the cooled dressing over the salad and toss to combine before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a reduced-fat alternative to oleo. You can also substitute the slivered almonds with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. If you want to add more crunch, try incorporating some crispy chickpeas. Make sure to toast the sesame seeds and ramen noodles until golden to enhance their flavor. This salad pairs beautifully with Grandma Mae'S Coleslaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing salad as a side dish at your next barbecue or potluck. It complements grilled meats, such as chicken or pork, perfectly. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light soup or sandwich. Additionally, it goes well with Brewed Iced Tea for a refreshing drink option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. If reheating the toasted ingredients, use a dry skillet to maintain their crunchiness. Avoid reheating the entire salad as it is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Nappa Salad contains roughly 558 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 582mg per serving (25% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chopped vegetables and toasted ingredients a day in advance. However, it's best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the salad's crunch. When ready to serve, simply combine everything and toss with the dressing for a fresh taste.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the oleo with a plant-based butter or margarine. Ensure that the ramen noodles do not contain any animal products, as some brands may use egg. The rest of the ingredients, including the dressing, are naturally vegan-friendly.
What can I add for extra protein?
To boost the protein content of this salad, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. These options not only enhance the nutritional value but also complement the flavors of the salad beautifully. If you prefer a vegetarian option, chickpeas are a great choice and will add a nice texture.
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).