Vegetable of the month: Red cabbage

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Slivers of this vibrantly colored vegetable, also known as purple cabbage, are sometimes added to cabbage salads and coleslaw. But why not add red cabbage to any salad — or even make it the star ingredient?

Red cabbage contains substances called anthocyanins, which are responsible for the red-orange to blue-violet colors found in many fruits and vegetables. Population-based studies have linked a higher intake of anthocyanins and other so-called phytochemicals to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Nutritional info: All varieties of cabbage (red, green, or the paler Savoy cabbage) are high in vitamin C and low in calories. A half-cup contains about 45% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C, but just 14 calories. Cabbage is also a good source of fiber and other vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A and potassium.

Easy recipe: Finely chop or shred half a head of red cabbage. Toss with a little olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper, or your favorite salad dressing. For an extra burst of color, add some shredded carrots.