Fresh Cabbage and Ham Salad with Zucchini 🥗🥒

This vibrant and crunchy salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and savory ham, perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at your summer gatherings. The crispness of the cabbage, the sweetness of the zucchini, and the smoky flavor of the ham come together beautifully, creating a refreshing and satisfying salad. Drizzled with a zesty dressing, this dish is both nutritious and delicious!

Ingredients

For the salad

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced (smoked or honey-baked works great)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (for extra crunch)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish

For the dressing

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced zucchini, diced ham, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and sunflower seeds.

🥄 Make sure to toss the ingredients lightly to avoid bruising the veggies. Freshness is key!

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning based on your preferences.

• Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated.

🧊 Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste.

• Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs.

Variations

• Vegan: Substitute ham with diced avocado or chickpeas for protein and keep the salad equally satisfying.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or radishes for a burst of color and texture!
• Cheesy twist: Add crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan for a creamy element that complements the fresh flavors.
• Seasonal swap: In the fall, try adding shredded carrots or diced apples for a bit of sweetness!

Enjoy this Fresh Cabbage and Ham Salad with Zucchini as a refreshing complement to your meals or as a standalone dish on those sunny days! 🌞🥗