Summer Salad Julienne
A refreshing summer salad featuring crisp cabbage, sweet mandarin oranges, and savory Swiss cheese, all coated in a tangy Dijon dressing perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- For the dressing, blend vinegar with oil, mustard, and garlic. Cover and chill.
- Combine shredded cabbage, julienne-cut Swiss cheese, chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and drained mandarin oranges in a large bowl.
- Pour the chilled dressing over the salad and toss to combine before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or cucumbers to the salad. If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can substitute half of the oil with sour cream. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also enhance the overall taste. Ensure the mandarin oranges are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Summer Salad Julienne is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Californian Veggies for a colorful summer platter. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. A slice of crusty bread complements this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the salad has already been dressed, the vegetables may become soggy, so it's best to keep the dressing separate until serving. To refresh the salad, add a splash of vinegar or oil before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Salad Julienne contains roughly 467 calories, with 7g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (134% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 salad ingredients ahead of time and keep them separate from the dressing. Combine them just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the vegetables.
What can I substitute for baby Swiss cheese?
If baby Swiss cheese is unavailable, you can use Gruyère or a mild cheddar cheese as a substitute. Both will provide a similar texture and taste, enhancing the salad without overpowering it.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. It's a great option for those looking for refreshing vegetarian recipes, making it a perfect addition to any summer gathering.
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).