Name: Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: For Salad:; 1 head Napa cabbage; 1 small red onion; 3 tomatoes; 1 persian cucumber; 3 Pita Breads; 4 oz cow’s milk feta; 6 radishes; 2 tsp za'atar; 1 tbsp sumac spice; ¼ cup mint; ¼ cup parsley; ⅛ cup dill; For Dressing:; 2 lemons; 2 oz red wine vinegar; 2 tbsp whole grain mustard; 1 tsp pink salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 3 oz extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp sumac spice; 2 tsp za'atar

This grilled napa cabbage fattoush salad combines smoky flavors with fresh, vibrant ingredients. The charred napa cabbage adds a unique twist to the traditional Levantine salad, making it an unforgettable dish for any meal.

Photos of Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every kitchen. Za'atar and sumac spice are Middle Eastern spices that can usually be found in the international aisle of a supermarket. Persian cucumber is smaller and has a different texture compared to regular cucumbers, and cow’s milk feta offers a creamier alternative to goat or sheep milk feta.

Ingredients for Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad

Napa cabbage: A type of Chinese cabbage with a delicate, crisp texture.

Red onion: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor and colorful crunch to the salad.

Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they bring freshness to the dish.

Persian cucumber: Smaller and less watery than regular cucumbers, adding crispness.

Pita breads: Toasted to add a crunchy element to the salad.

Cow’s milk feta: Creamy and tangy cheese that complements the salad well.

Radishes: Add a peppery crunch and vibrant color.

Za'atar: A Middle Eastern spice blend that enhances the flavor of the salad.

Sumac spice: Adds a tangy, lemony flavor to the dressing and salad.

Mint: Fresh and aromatic, it adds a burst of flavor.

Parsley: Fresh and slightly peppery, it enhances the salad's taste.

Dill: Adds an herbaceous note to the salad.

One reader, Aura Mohr says:

This grilled napa cabbage fattoush salad is a delightful twist on a classic! The charred cabbage adds a smoky depth, while the fresh herbs and tangy dressing bring everything together beautifully. Perfectly crunchy pita and creamy feta make each bite a joy. Highly recommend!

Aura Mohr

Techniques Required for Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad Recipe

How to grill cabbage: Cut the cabbage in half lengthwise, brush lightly with olive oil, and grill until deeply charred. Immediately place in the fridge to avoid cooking the cabbage any further. How to toast pita bread: Cut pita bread into small wedges, toss with olive oil and salt, and bake in the oven at 375 degrees F for about 7 to 10 minutes, or until crisp and toasted. Cool on a rack on the counter. How to prepare salad ingredients: Chop and prepare all salad ingredients, including red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, mint, parsley, and dill, and place them in a large bowl. How to make dressing: Place all dressing ingredients (lemon juice, red wine vinegar, whole grain mustard, pink salt, black pepper, extra virgin olive oil, sumac spice, and za'atar) in a glass jar and shake vigorously prior to dressing the salad.

How To Make Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad

Make yourself a healthy meal for breakfast or lunch with our Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad Recipe! Enjoy a tasty fattoush salad with lemon dressing.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Salad:

1headnapa cabbagemedium-sized
1smallred onionthinly sliced
3tomatoesvine-ripe, diced into large cubes
1Persian cucumbersliced
3pita breadscut into wedges
4ozcow’s milk fetacrumbled
6radishessliced
2tspza’atar
1tbspsumac spice
¼cupmintfresh, chopped
¼cupparsleyfresh, chopped
⅛cupdillchopped

For Dressing:

2lemons
2ozred wine vinegar
2tbspwhole grain mustard
1tsppink salt
½tspblack pepperground
3ozextra virgin olive oildivided
1tspsumac spice
2tspza’atar

Instructions

Preheat the grill and preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Cut cabbage in half lengthwise, brush lightly with olive oil, and proceed to grill until deeply charred. Immediately place in the fridge to avoid cooking the cabbage any further.
Cut pita bread into small wedges and toss with 2 tablespoon olive oil and salt. Place on a cookie sheet pan and place in the oven for about 7 to 10 minutes, or until crisp and toasted. Cool on a rack on the counter.
Prepare salad ingredients and place all in a large bowl, including the grilled cabbage and toasted pita wedges.
Place all dressing ingredients in a glass jar and shake vigorously prior to dressing the salad.
Add the amount of desired dressing to the salad and toss. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 441.70kcal
Fat: 29.83g
Saturated Fat: 7.56g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 17.34g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.43g
Carbohydrates: 36.91g
Fiber: 8.81g
Sugar: 8.96g
Protein: 13.12g
Cholesterol: 25.23mg
Sodium: 1191.07mg
Calcium: 428.47mg
Potassium: 1078.44mg
Iron: 5.07mg
Vitamin A: 610.90µg
Vitamin C: 135.31mg

Grilling Napa Cabbage: A Technique Tip for Fattoush Salad

When grilling napa cabbage, make sure to brush it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and to achieve those beautiful char marks. Grilling the cabbage adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the fattoush salad. After grilling, immediately place the cabbage in the fridge to halt the cooking process and maintain its crisp texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Fattoush Salad

Pre-grill the cabbage: Grill the napa cabbage ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of preparation.

Use pre-toasted pita: Buy pre-toasted pita bread to eliminate the need for oven time.

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and radishes in advance and store them in airtight containers.

Make dressing ahead: Prepare the dressing a day before and keep it in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

Batch herbs: Wash and chop the mint, parsley, and dill in bulk and store them in the fridge for easy access.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad Recipe

napa cabbage - Substitute with romaine lettuce: Romaine has a similar crunch and can be grilled to achieve a comparable texture.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can provide a similar taste profile.
tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweeter and can add a burst of flavor.
persian cucumber - Substitute with English cucumber: English cucumbers have a similar texture and mild flavor.
pita breads - Substitute with tortilla chips: Tortilla chips can provide a similar crunch and are easy to find.
cow’s milk feta - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor that can mimic the sharpness of feta.
radishes - Substitute with jicama: Jicama has a similar crunch and a mildly sweet flavor.
za'atar - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning can provide a blend of herbs that mimic the complexity of za'atar.
sumac spice - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can provide a similar tangy flavor.
mint - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a fresh and aromatic flavor that can complement the salad.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor.
dill - Substitute with tarragon: Tarragon has a similar anise-like flavor that can replace dill.
lemons - Substitute with limes: Limes provide a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can add a fruity note.
whole grain mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a similar texture and a slightly tangy flavor.
pink salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar mineral content and flavor.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat without altering the color of the dressing.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor.
sumac spice - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can provide a similar tangy flavor.
za'atar - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning can provide a blend of herbs that mimic the complexity of za'atar.

Presenting Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad

Grill the napa cabbage perfectly: Ensure the napa cabbage is deeply charred but not overcooked. The char adds a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fresh ingredients.
Create a vibrant color palette: Use the bright colors of tomatoes, radishes, and mint to create a visually appealing dish. Arrange them in a way that showcases their natural beauty.
Crisp the pita bread to perfection: Toast the pita bread wedges until they are golden and crisp. This adds a delightful crunch to the salad, providing textural contrast.
Use a variety of fresh herbs: Incorporate mint, parsley, and dill generously. These herbs not only add freshness but also elevate the flavor profile of the salad.
Dress the salad elegantly: Shake the dressing ingredients in a glass jar until well combined. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to ensure the pita bread remains crisp.
Plate with precision: Arrange the grilled napa cabbage as the base, then layer the other ingredients artfully on top. Ensure each plate has a balanced mix of all components.
Garnish thoughtfully: Finish with a sprinkle of sumac spice and za'atar on top. This not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
Serve immediately: Present the salad as soon as it is dressed to maintain the crispness of the pita bread and the freshness of the vegetables.

Essential Tools for Making Fattoush Salad with Grilled Napa Cabbage

Grill: Used to char the napa cabbage, giving it a smoky flavor and a nice texture.
Oven: Preheated to 375 degrees F, used to toast the pita bread wedges until they are crisp.
Brush: Used to lightly coat the napa cabbage with olive oil before grilling.
Knife: Essential for cutting the napa cabbage, red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and radishes.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing all the vegetables.
Cookie sheet pan: Used to spread out the pita bread wedges for toasting in the oven.
Cooling rack: Allows the toasted pita bread to cool evenly and stay crisp.
Large bowl: Used to combine all the salad ingredients, including the grilled cabbage and toasted pita wedges.
Glass jar: Used to mix and shake the dressing ingredients vigorously.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the cabbage on the grill and handling the hot pita bread.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring spices and other small quantities of ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure larger quantities of ingredients like olive oil and vinegar.
Salad tongs: Useful for tossing the salad with the dressing to ensure even coating.
Serving platter: Ideal for presenting the finished grilled napa cabbage fattoush salad.

Storing and Freezing Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad

To store the grilled napa cabbage fattoush salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, keep in mind that the longer it sits, the soggier the pita chips will become.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, store the grilled napa cabbage, vegetables, and pita chips separately from the dressing. Combine them just before serving to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
For the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to consume the salad within 24 hours of preparation.
If you have leftover dressing, you can store it in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good shake before using it again.
Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the high water content in the vegetables and the delicate nature of the grilled napa cabbage. Freezing will cause the ingredients to become mushy and lose their texture upon thawing.
If you have any leftover grilled napa cabbage, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be used in other dishes like stir-fries, sandwiches, or wraps.

Interesting Fact About Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad

A fun fact about this grilled napa cabbage fattoush salad recipe is that sumac spice and za'atar are traditional Middle Eastern seasonings that add a tangy and earthy flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Is Making Fattoush Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled napa cabbage fattoush salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like napa cabbage, red onion, tomatoes, and pita bread are affordable and readily available. Specialty items like feta cheese and sumac spice might be slightly pricier, but they are used in small quantities. The overall cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-$20 USD. Considering the fresh and flavorful ingredients, this recipe offers great value. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Fattoush Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This grilled napa cabbage fattoush salad recipe is a healthy and nutritious option. The salad is packed with fresh vegetables like napa cabbage, red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and radishes, which provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The herbs, such as mint, parsley, and dill, add flavor and additional nutrients. The use of whole grain mustard and extra virgin olive oil in the dressing provides healthy fats and adds depth to the salad.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of feta cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to decrease the overall fat content
Use whole wheat pita bread instead of regular pita bread to increase the fiber content
Consider adding more protein sources, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make the salad more filling and balanced

To further enhance the nutritional value of this salad, you could:

Add more colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to increase the variety of vitamins and antioxidants
Include a source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, like grilled salmon or a sprinkle of chia seeds
Experiment with different types of leafy greens, such as spinach or arugula, to boost the nutrient profile
Reduce the amount of oil in the dressing and replace some of it with Greek yogurt for a creamy, protein-rich alternative

Editor's Opinion on This Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad Recipe

This grilled napa cabbage fattoush salad recipe is a delightful twist on a classic Middle Eastern dish. The charred cabbage adds a smoky depth, while the fresh herbs and sumac provide a vibrant, tangy flavor. The toasted pita adds a satisfying crunch, and the feta brings a creamy, salty contrast. The dressing, with its blend of lemon, mustard, and za'atar, ties everything together beautifully. It's a well-balanced, refreshing salad that's perfect for a summer meal.

Enhance Your Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Hummus: Imagine a creamy hummus infused with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This delightful dip pairs perfectly with the crispiness of the grilled pita bread in your salad, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Spiced Lentil Soup: Warm up your meal with a bowl of hearty lentil soup, spiced with a blend of cumin, coriander, and a hint of turmeric. The earthy flavors of the soup complement the fresh, vibrant notes of the fattoush salad, making for a comforting and satisfying dining experience.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Delight in the intricate flavors of stuffed grape leaves, filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and a touch of lemon. These little parcels of goodness add a touch of Mediterranean elegance to your meal, perfectly balancing the grilled napa cabbage and fresh vegetables in your salad.

Pomegranate Molasses Glazed Chicken: Elevate your main course with succulent chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and tangy pomegranate molasses sauce. The rich, fruity notes of the glaze enhance the flavors of the fattoush salad, creating a delightful contrast that will have your guests coming back for more.

Baklava: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of baklava, layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a mixture of nuts and drizzled with honey. This classic dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, providing a delightful conclusion to your Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Similar Recipes to Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Dive into a refreshing salad that combines chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions with a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley and mint for an extra burst of flavor.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl: A hearty and nutritious bowl featuring roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes served over a bed of fluffy quinoa. Drizzle with a tangy tahini dressing and sprinkle with toasted seeds.

Greek Tabbouleh Salad: A vibrant salad made with bulgur wheat, fresh herbs like parsley and mint, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal.

Spiced Lentil Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of soup made with lentils, carrots, celery, and a blend of aromatic spices. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Enjoy a colorful and flavorful dish of bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Bake until tender and top with melted cheese for a delicious finish.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked until golden and bubbly, creating a delightful contrast between the tender mushroom and the creamy filling. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Start with slices of crusty baguette, toasted to perfection. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. The combination of the crunchy bread and the juicy, flavorful topping creates a harmonious balance that is sure to impress. Perfect for a light starter, this bruschetta is a timeless favorite that never fails to delight.

Desserts:

Lemon Basil Sorbet: Lemon Basil Sorbet is a refreshing way to end your meal. The tartness of lemon combined with the aromatic notes of basil creates a delightful palate cleanser. This dessert is perfect for warm weather and can be served in elegant martini glasses for a sophisticated touch. Garnish with a sprig of basil and a thin slice of lemon to enhance its visual appeal. For an added twist, consider incorporating a splash of limoncello to elevate the flavors even further.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Chocolate Avocado Mousse offers a rich and creamy end to your meal without the guilt. The avocado provides a smooth texture while the dark chocolate adds depth and richness. This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats. Serve it in small ramekins and top with a sprinkle of sea salt and cacao nibs for a bit of crunch. For a touch of elegance, add a dollop of whipped coconut cream and a few fresh raspberries.

Why trust this Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad Recipe:

This recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled napa cabbage with the fresh, vibrant ingredients of a traditional fattoush salad. The use of za'atar and sumac spice adds an authentic Middle Eastern touch, while the cow’s milk feta provides a creamy contrast. The pita bread is toasted to perfection, adding a satisfying crunch. The dressing is a harmonious blend of lemon, red wine vinegar, and whole grain mustard, ensuring a balanced and flavorful finish. Trust this recipe for its unique combination of textures and flavors, making it a standout dish.

Want to share your experience making this Grilled Napa Cabbage Fattoush Salad or discuss the recipe further? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How do I know when the cabbage is grilled enough?

You want the cabbage to be deeply charred but not completely burnt. It should have a nice smoky flavor and some good grill marks. Once it looks charred, pop it in the fridge to stop it from cooking further.

Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Sure, you can use other types of cabbage like green or savoy, but napa cabbage has a tender texture that works really well in this salad. Just keep in mind that grilling times might vary slightly.

What if I don't have sumac spice?

If you don't have sumac, you can substitute it with a bit of lemon zest and a touch of salt. Sumac has a tangy, lemony flavor, so this combo will give you a similar taste.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dressing a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake before using it on the salad.

How do I keep the pita wedges crispy?

After toasting the pita wedges, let them cool completely on a rack. Store them in an airtight container to keep them crispy until you're ready to toss them in the salad.