Vegan Cole Slaw Recipe That’s Fresh, Crisp, and Easy

Refreshing, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, this vegan cole slaw recipe is the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a light lunch accompaniment, or just craving something crisp and healthy, this easy-to-make vegan cole slaw will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Made with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a creamy yet tangy dressing, it offers a wonderful blend of textures and tastes without any dairy or eggs. The best part?

It comes together in just minutes and keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks.

In this recipe, we focus on wholesome ingredients and a delightful dressing that uses plant-based mayo and apple cider vinegar, giving it that classic cole slaw tang without the heaviness. Plus, it’s versatile enough for you to customize with your favorite add-ins.

Ready to dive into making a vibrant, vegan cole slaw that everyone will love? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cole slaw is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s:

• Easy to prepare: Just chop, mix, and chill!
• Healthy and light: Loaded with fresh vegetables and a low-fat dressing.
• Perfectly creamy: Thanks to vegan mayo and a hint of mustard, it’s satisfying without being heavy.
• Customizable: Add nuts, seeds, or herbs to suit your taste.
• Great for any occasion: Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a daily salad booster.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage (for color and crunch)
• 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded
• 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for tanginess)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for balance)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for freshness)
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds (optional, classic cole slaw flavor)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Vegetable grater or food processor with shredding attachment
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Whisk or fork for mixing dressing
• Serving bowl or airtight container for storage

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables. Start by shredding the green and red cabbage using a vegetable grater or food processor. Peel and shred the carrot as well, and finely dice the red onion. Place all the shredded vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine the slaw and dressing. Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss everything thoroughly so that all the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
4. Add final touches. Stir in the chopped parsley and celery seeds if using. These add a lovely fresh and slightly spicy note that complements the creamy dressing.
5. Chill and serve. Cover the bowl or transfer the cole slaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the cabbage soften slightly. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Tips & Variations

For the crunchiest cole slaw, shred the cabbage thinly and avoid overmixing after adding the dressing.

Here are some ways to personalize your vegan cole slaw:

• Nutty twist: Add toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Sweet and fruity: Toss in some diced apple or pineapple chunks for a sweet surprise.
• Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to liven things up.
• Herbal freshness: Swap parsley for fresh dill or cilantro to match your meal theme.
• Oil-free version: Replace vegan mayo with mashed avocado or a tahini-based dressing for a different creamy texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan cole slaw pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s a classic companion to vegan burgers, sandwiches, or wraps.

For a refreshing summer meal, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or tofu skewers.

It also works well as a topping for tacos or as a crunchy salad addition to your Buddha bowls. Try it with some Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or alongside a warm loaf from our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

If you’re interested in more creamy vegan sauces, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for inspiration to complement your meals creatively.

Conclusion

This vegan cole slaw recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious, wholesome dish that suits any occasion. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a visually appealing and tasty side that’s sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

The creamy dressing, balanced by the tangy vinegar and a touch of sweetness, elevates the humble cabbage and carrot into something truly special.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just looking to add more plant-based dishes to your repertoire, this recipe is approachable, adaptable, and perfectly satisfying. Plus, it stores well, so you can enjoy it throughout the week with minimal effort.

Give it a try, and enjoy a slice of fresh, crunchy goodness on your plate today!

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