Crisp romaine lettuce and vibrant red cabbage come together in this nutrient-dense Heart-Healthy Green Goddess Cabbage Salad. Dressed in a creamy, dairy-free cashew sauce, this recipe delivers that classic herby flavor without the saturated fat. It’s a beautifully fresh and verdant dish perfect for a quick, low-calorie weekday lunch or as a fiber-packed side. Best of all, the hearty cabbage holds up well, making it ideal for meal prep.
Looking for more fresh inspiration? Be sure to browse our full collection of heart-healthy salad recipes for more nutrient-packed meal ideas. You can also pair your greens with our delicious lineup of low sodium salad dressings to keep your flavor high and your salt intake low.
By swapping heavy mayonnaise and sour cream for nutrient-rich cashews and olive oil, this salad offers a rich, creamy texture with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The base of red cabbage and romaine adds significant volume and fiber for very few calories, making this a satisfying choice that supports stable blood sugar levels.
Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates and high in fiber and healthy fats, which helps minimize blood sugar spikes.
This homemade version is healthier than many store-bought bottles because it uses whole ingredients like cashews and herbs instead of inflammatory oils, added sugars, or preservatives.
Yes, but you should soak the cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in cool water) to soften them so they blend into a smooth cream.
The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It may thicken slightly, so stir in a little water before using.
If you love the crunch of this cabbage salad, explore our other nutrient-dense options that are perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. These heart-healthy recipes feature fresh vegetables and plant-based proteins to keep you fueled without weighing you down.
Ditch the bottled brands filled with preservatives and try whipping up your own easy, flavorful sauces right at home. These healthy, creamy dressing recipes use clean ingredients to add zest to your greens without the unwanted sodium or hidden sugars.
Nutritional yeast is the secret to this dressing’s savory, cheese-like flavor without using any dairy. Often called "nooch," this deactivated yeast is a staple in vegan cooking because it is often fortified with B vitamins (including B12) and provides a complete protein source. It adds a deep umami profile that makes the Green Goddess dressing taste rich and indulgent.
Recipe yields 6 servings
In a large serving bowl, add the romaine, cabbage and dill; toss to combine. Add the lemon juice and black pepper and toss to combine.
Add all of the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add 1 tablespoon at a time of warm water until you reach the desired consistency.
Add the dressing to the salad mixture and toss until well combined. Gradually sprinkle in the cashews and lightly toss to incorporate evenly. Serve immediately. Store the remainder of the dressing in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
For Cashews: If you have a nut allergy, replace the cashews with raw sunflower seeds or hemp hearts. You may need to soak seeds briefly to ensure a smooth blend.
For Romaine Lettuce: Kale or baby spinach can be used for a darker leafy green base, though the crunch profile will change.
For Shallots: Red onion works well for a sharper bite, or sweet onion for a milder flavor.
For Nutritional Yeast: If you aren't strictly vegan, you can substitute grated Parmesan cheese, though this adds dairy and sodium.