The pleasant sweetness of apples and cider complements fresh cabbage, and pecans add crunch. The cabbage is cooked only until it is barely tender, before it gets slick.To turn this side dish into a warm, filling entree salad, add shredded roast chicken or browned slices of apple-chicken sausage, and crumble blue cheese over the top.You can use a ripe, firm pear in place of the apple.