Politiki is a traditional crispy cabbage salad of Greek origin. It is a healthy version of coleslaw. This sweet and sour Greek cabbage salad is made in minutes and can be kept in the fridge for a few days.
If you like coleslaw but feel guilty about it, then you will love this recipe. It’s called the Greek version of coleslaw, and although it doesn’t have a spoonful of mayonnaise, it’s crispy and full of flavor.
What is Politiki salata?
Polítiki salad got its name from the Greek minority living in Istanbul (former Constantinople). These immigrants, called “polites” by Greeks, greatly influenced Greek cuisine. They preferred dishes made with fresh, healthy ingredients, and this salad reflects that tradition. This salad has many versions, so don’t be afraid to improvise and taste different ingredients.
Crispy and packed with flavors, politiki is a signature salad that you can often find on tables in restaurants in Greece. Don’t confuse it with pickled cabbage salad.
Why you will love this Greek recipe?
- Traditional Greek salad made with fresh, wholesome ingredients that fall into the category of longevity recipe
- This salad lasts in the fridge for 3-5 days, so great choice for those having some kind of salad with every meal.
- a healthier alternative to mayonnaise-based coleslaw.
- Easy to make and kids friendly
- versatile, you can add other ingredients like capers, garlic or arugula
Tools you need
I prefer a wooden Cutting board
You cannot go wrong with this sharp Knife (for slicing vegetables) or if you have a shredder or a food processor with a shredder it makes your life easier
Grater (for grating carrots)
Mediterranean Salad Ingredients
This salad mainly features white or red cabbage, along with carrots, celery, and bell peppers. You can customize it with other ingredients according to your taste. Add salt and good-quality wine vinegar, mix well by hand, and store it in the fridge for 3 to 5 days in a glass container.
chopped cabbage
the main ingredient in this salad is cabbage, thus cannot be substituted. However you can use red or white. I prefer white cabbage but needs to be shredded or chopped thinly
The cornerstone of this salad is cabbage, an essential ingredient that cannot be substituted. However, you can choose between red or white cabbage. I prefer white and ensure it is thinly sliced or shredded for the best results.
carrot
To mimic coleslaw, don’t skip the carrot. It adds sweetness and color. Grate it finely to blend well with other ingredients.
If you have extra, try this Asian carrot salad.
bell pepper
Bell peppers add a crunchy texture and sweet flavor to this salad. You can use any color you like —red, yellow, orange, and green will work, but each tastes a bit different. I like to use red for this Constantinople dish.
You can also use chili peppers if you prefer a spicy note.
Olive Oil
Make sure to use the best extra-virgin olive oil you have when using it in salads, whereas for cooking, you can compromise.
Herbs
Fresh or dried parsley or oregano are the best choice
White Wine vinegar
select high quality wine vinegar of transparent color. Don’t alternate with red wine vinegar, as it will affect the overall look of the salad.
How to make Politiki salata
This salad is a staple of the Mediterranean diet and is often served alongside main dishes.
First step: Cut the vegetable
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots and celery. Add sliced red peppers and olives.
Second step: Prepare dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Third step: Combine
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well. You can use your hands to coat all ingredients evenly.
Fourth step: Marinate the salad
Allow the salad to marinate in the dressing for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Fifth step: Strain the salad before serving
Strain the salad with a strainer, taste it, and season with salt if necessary. Drizzle with olive oil before serving. Serve the salad chilled in a large bowl for sharing. Or you can also distribute it into small serving bowls.
Tips and Tricks to Healthy coleslaw
This Mediterranean cabbage salad needs time for the flavors to blend so it tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.
For this politiki salata to remain crunchy and tasty, reduce the raw flavor of the cabbage. The easy way to do this is just before serving: strain the salad you’re serving, drain, and squeeze out excess liquid. This will ensure the salad is not watery and is also not too sour. Add a few drops of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, and your salad will be just perfect.
Variations and Substitutions
- Instead of white cabbage, you can use red cabbage for a different color and slightly different flavor profile.
- Add other vegetables such as cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or red onion.
- Mix a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tahini to the dressing if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice instead of white wine vinegar to the dressing.
other longevity salad recipes
Politiki salata- Greek Cabbage Salad recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 300 g cabbage white
- 1 stick celery
- 1 carrot
- 1/2 bunch parsley
- 8 Kalamata olives chopped
- 1 red bell pepper
- few slices of fresh chilli pepper
For Dressing
- 1 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 clove of garlic
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- lemon juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots and celery. Add sliced red peppers and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well. You can use your hands to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Allow the salad to marinate in the dressing for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Strain the salad with a strainer, taste it, and season with salt if necessary. Drizzle with olive oil before serving. Serve the salad chilled in a large bowl for sharing. Or you can also distribute it into small serving bowls.
Thank you for sharing this longevity recipe