Confetti Cabbage Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing


SERVES 6

Serve this Asian-inspired cabbage salad with simple pork or chicken dishes. To serve the salad immediately, rinse the salted cabbage and carrot in a large bowl of ice water, drain them in a colander, pick out any ice cubes, then pat the vegetables dry before dressing.

1

pound red or green cabbage (about ½ medium head), shredded (about 6 cups; see photos)

1

large carrot, peeled and shredded

Table salt

2

tablespoons smooth peanut butter

2

tablespoons peanut oil

2

tablespoons rice vinegar

1

tablespoon soy sauce

1

teaspoon honey

2

medium garlic cloves, minced or pressed through a garlic press (about 2 teaspoons)

tablespoons minced or grated fresh ginger

½

jalapeño chile, seeds and ribs removed

4

medium radishes, halved lengthwise and sliced thin

4

scallions, sliced thin

1. Toss the cabbage and carrot with 1 teaspoon salt in a colander set over a medium bowl. Let stand until the cabbage wilts, at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours. Rinse the cabbage and carrot under cold running water (or in a large bowl of ice water if serving immediately). Press, but do not squeeze, to drain; pat dry with paper towels.

2. Process the peanut butter, oil, vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and jalapeño in a food processor until smooth. Combine the cabbage, carrot, radishes, scallions, and dressing in a medium bowl; toss to coat. Season with salt to taste. Cover and refrigerate; serve chilled. (The salad can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.)