Swedish Pizza Salad Recipe
Introduction
Swedish Pizza Salad is a crisp, tangy cabbage salad that pairs perfectly with pizza or grilled dishes. Its simple combination of fresh cabbage and a bright, herby dressing makes it a refreshing side that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients
- 1/2 head green cabbage (finely shredded, about 6-8 cups)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pinches crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Finely shred the cabbage or slice it into very thin ribbons.
- Step 2: Place the cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage with your hands until it starts to release its juices. Set aside for 5-10 minutes.
- Step 3: While the cabbage rests, prepare the dressing by combining olive oil, white wine vinegar, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Whisk until the ingredients are well blended.
- Step 4: After the cabbage has rested, pour the dressing over it and toss well to combine thoroughly.
- Step 5: Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as desired.
- Step 6: Cover the salad and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to deepen.
- Step 7: Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite main dishes, especially pizza.
Tips & Variations
- For a more balanced sweetness, adjust the sugar amount to your taste, or omit it entirely for a tangier salad.
- Add a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Use red cabbage instead of green cabbage for a colorful variation.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. Serve cold or allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as the cabbage will become watery and lose its crunch.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano and basil?
Yes, fresh herbs can be used but reduce the quantity since fresh herbs have a milder flavor—about one-third the amount of dried herbs is a good starting point.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge and tastes great after marinating, making it a convenient and healthy side to prepare ahead of time.
PrintSwedish Pizza Salad Recipe
Swedish Pizza Salad is a refreshing and tangy shredded cabbage salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette with herbs and a touch of sweetness. This crisp side dish perfectly complements savory meals, especially pizzas, providing a bright contrast with its balanced flavors and crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Swedish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad
- 1/2 head green cabbage (finely shredded, about 6–8 cups)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 2–3 tablespoons sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pinches crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Shred the Cabbage: Finely shred the cabbage or slice it into very thin ribbons to ensure a crisp texture and even flavor absorption.
- Salt and Massage Cabbage: Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage with your hands until it starts releasing its juices, about 5-10 minutes. This softens the cabbage and enhances its flavor.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, sugar (if using), dried oregano, dried basil (if using), black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Add the dressing to the salted cabbage and toss thoroughly to coat every strand evenly with the flavorful vinaigrette.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as desired for a perfectly balanced flavor.
- Marinate: Cover the salad and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a crisp, vibrant side dish that pairs wonderfully with pizzas or other savory mains.
Notes
- Use white wine vinegar for a milder flavor; white vinegar works fine but is sharper.
- Adjust sugar amount based on your preferred sweetness; it helps balance the acidity.
- Optional herbs and red pepper flakes can be omitted or adjusted to taste.
- Marinating for longer develops deeper flavor and tenderizes the cabbage.
- Great as a refreshing salad side for pizza, grilled meats, or sandwiches.
Keywords: Swedish pizza salad, shredded cabbage salad, tangy cabbage salad, no-cook salad, pizza side dish

