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Crunchy Bean and Chinese Cabbage Salad is a refreshing, light, and nutritious dish that combines a variety of textures and flavors. With crunchy croutons, crisp Chinese cabbage, hearty beans, and a touch of fresh parsley, this salad makes for a quick and healthy meal or side dish. The addition of carrots and a light mayonnaise dressing ties everything together, creating a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. This recipe is simple to make, using common pantry ingredients, and perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or a potluck salad.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

Croutons: 100 g
Chinese cabbage: 100 g

Parsley: 4-5 sprigs (or as desired)
Canned beans (any variety): 200 g
Carrot: 150 g (grated)

Mayonnaise: A little, for dressing (approximately 2-3 tablespoons, adjust to taste)

Steps on How to Make It:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Chop the Chinese cabbage: Begin by finely slicing the Chinese cabbage into thin strips. This will add a crunchy texture and mild flavor to the salad.
Grate the carrot: Peel and grate the carrot. This adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the salad, balancing out the flavors.

Chop the parsley: Roughly chop the parsley. This will add a burst of freshness to the salad and a slight hint of bitterness to balance the richness of the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Beans

Rinse and drain the canned beans: If you are using canned beans, drain the liquid and give them a good rinse under cold water. This helps remove excess sodium and ensures they are clean and ready to use.
Add the beans to the salad: Once drained, transfer the beans to the bowl with the vegetables. You can use any type of canned beans you like, such as kidney beans, white beans, or black beans. The beans add protein and a hearty texture to the salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Combine the ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced Chinese cabbage, grated carrot, drained beans, and chopped parsley.
Add the croutons: For an added crunch, toss in 100 grams of croutons. These will add a delightful texture contrast to the salad.
Add the mayonnaise: Drizzle the mayonnaise over the salad. You only need a small amount to lightly coat the ingredients. Start with 2-3 tablespoons and adjust according to your preference. You can also use a low-fat mayonnaise or yogurt for a healthier option.

Step 4: Mix and Serve

Gently mix the salad: Using salad tongs or a large spoon, gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure that the mayonnaise is evenly distributed, and the croutons, vegetables, and beans are well mixed.
Serve immediately: This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crunch of the croutons. You can serve it as a side dish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and healthy meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 250 kcal

Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 10 g

Fiber: 7 g
Sodium: 400 mg
Sugars: 5 g

Calcium: 80 mg
Iron: 2 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and beans ahead of time, but it’s best to add the croutons and mayonnaise just before serving. This prevents the croutons from becoming soggy.

2. What type of beans can I use?

You can use any canned beans you prefer. Kidney beans, white beans, black beans, or chickpeas are all great options. You can even mix different types of beans for added variety.

3. Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter dressing, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a vinaigrette in place of mayonnaise. These alternatives can provide a tangy flavor and are lower in fat.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! This salad is versatile, and you can add other vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture.

5. Is this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or a plant-based dressing of your choice.

Tips on How to Make the Best Crunchy Bean and Chinese Cabbage Salad:

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage, carrots, and parsley will make a big difference in flavor and texture. Avoid pre-packaged or pre-shredded vegetables if possible.
Don’t overdo the mayonnaise: The key to this salad is to keep the dressing light. Too much mayonnaise can overpower the freshness of the vegetables and make the salad too heavy.

Add the croutons last: To maintain the crunchiness of the croutons, add them right before serving. If they sit in the salad too long, they may become soggy from the moisture of the vegetables.
Customize the croutons: For a homemade touch, you can make your own croutons by toasting cubes of bread with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This adds a personal touch and more flavor to the salad.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate the salad: If you have any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 days, but note that the croutons may lose their crunch after a while.

Keep the croutons separate: To maintain the croutons’ texture, store them separately from the salad if you plan to keep it in the fridge for later. Add the croutons just before serving.
Prep ahead: You can prepare the cabbage, carrots, beans, and parsley ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the ingredients with the croutons and mayonnaise.

Conclusion:

Crunchy Bean and Chinese Cabbage Salad is a quick and easy recipe that offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. With the crunch of croutons, the freshness of vegetables, and the heartiness of beans, this salad is both delicious and nutritious. It’s an excellent option for a light meal or a side dish, and with its versatility, you can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables or adjusting the dressing.

This salad not only provides a good source of fiber and protein but also satisfies the palate with its combination of crunchy and creamy elements. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or bringing it to a potluck, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the simplicity and wholesomeness of this recipe, and feel free to get creative with it! Bon Appétit!