Crunchy Red Cabbage Slaw

Short description
Crunchy Red Cabbage Slaw is a vibrant and refreshing salad featuring finely shredded red cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing. It’s the perfect balance of crisp texture and tangy flavor, making it an ideal side dish for barbecues, tacos, or everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, colorful, and visually appealing

• Incredibly crisp and refreshing

• Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients

• Versatile—great with meats, sandwiches, or on its own

• Naturally vegan and gluten-free

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Red cabbage, thinly shredded

• Carrots, julienned or shredded

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• Sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (optional for crunch)

• Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

• Olive oil or neutral vegetable oil

• Dijon mustard

• Maple syrup or honey

• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and chopped herbs.

2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar or lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss well to combine.

4. Let the slaw sit for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

5. Sprinkle with almonds or sunflower seeds just before serving for added texture.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Serves 6

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Creamy style: Add a few tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy twist.

• Asian-inspired: Use rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a dash of soy sauce; top with sesame seeds.

• Spicy version: Mix in thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper.

• Fruity addition: Toss in thin apple slices or raisins for sweetness.

• Nutty crunch: Use chopped walnuts or pecans instead of almonds.

Storage/reheating

• To store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• To refresh: Toss with a bit of extra vinegar or lemon juice before serving again.

• Note: Best enjoyed fresh, as the cabbage may soften over time but will retain flavor.

FAQs

Is this slaw vegan?

Yes, if made with maple syrup instead of honey, it is fully vegan.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for prepping in advance. Letting it sit actually enhances the flavor.

What kind of cabbage should I use?

Red cabbage is ideal for color and crunch, but you can mix it with green cabbage for contrast.

Can I use bagged slaw mix?

Yes, bagged shredded cabbage and carrots work well and save time.

Is this slaw good for tacos?

Absolutely. It adds crunch and brightness to fish, shrimp, or vegetarian tacos.

Can I make it nut-free?

Yes. Omit almonds or use pumpkin seeds or crispy chickpeas for crunch.

What protein pairs well with this slaw?

Grilled chicken, fish, pulled pork, or tofu are excellent choices.

Can I freeze cabbage slaw?

Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of the vegetables.

How do I keep the cabbage crisp?

Salt it lightly and let it drain for 10 minutes before mixing, or dress it just before serving.

Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard?

Yes, use whole grain mustard, yellow mustard, or omit if desired for a milder dressing.

Conclusion

Crunchy Red Cabbage Slaw is a lively and nutritious side dish perfect for any occasion. Its crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and flexible ingredients make it a staple for meals needing freshness and color. Quick to prepare and always satisfying, this slaw belongs in your regular recipe rotation.