Coleslaw Recipe Fat Free Vegan: Crisp, Healthy & Delicious

When you think of classic summer sides, coleslaw almost always makes the list. Crisp, colorful, and refreshing, it’s the ultimate companion for picnics, BBQs, and simple weeknight dinners alike.

But what if you’re following a vegan diet or cutting back on fats? Traditional coleslaw is often loaded with mayonnaise and oil-based dressings, making it off-limits for those seeking a lighter, plant-based alternative.

Enter this fat free vegan coleslaw recipe — a dish that sacrifices neither flavor nor crunch.

This recipe celebrates everything you love about coleslaw: the tang, the crunch, the vibrant pops of color. By using a creamy, dairy-free, and oil-free dressing, you get all the richness with none of the guilt.

Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or just want a healthy make-ahead lunch, this coleslaw is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it comes together in under 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 100% Fat-Free & Vegan: No mayo, no oil, no animal products. This coleslaw is light yet satisfying.
• Incredibly Crunchy: The fresh cabbage and carrots deliver the satisfying crunch you crave.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, with minimal prep and no cooking required.
• Versatile: Perfect for picnics, BBQs, meal prep, or as a side for your favorite plant-based mains.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, spices, or herbs to make it your own.
• Healthy & Nourishing: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals while being low in calories.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this fat free vegan coleslaw:

• 3 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional for extra bite)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for color and freshness)
• 1/2 cup fat-free vegan yogurt (unsweetened, plain)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or date syrup, for a subtle sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon celery seed (optional, but highly recommended for classic flavor)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl (for the dressing)
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• Grater or food processor (for the carrot)
• Measuring spoons & cups
• Salad tongs or spoons (for tossing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables:

   Finely shred the green and red cabbage using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor. Grate the carrot and thinly slice the red onion.

   Place all the veggies in a large mixing bowl.

2. Mix the dressing:

   In a small bowl, whisk together the fat-free vegan yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and celery seed. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

3. Combine and toss:

   Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables. Using salad tongs or clean hands, toss until everything is evenly coated and combined.

4. Let it chill (optional):

   For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld and the veggies to soften just slightly.

5. Garnish and serve:

   Sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving. Enjoy your crisp, colorful, and perfectly tangy fat free vegan coleslaw!

Tips & Variations

• Make it ahead: Coleslaw can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Add-ins: Try tossing in thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or shredded apple for extra crunch and sweetness.
• Herb it up: Dill, cilantro, or chives add a fresh twist to the base recipe.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, ground cumin, or a dash of your favorite vegan chili powder for extra flavor.
• Yogurt swaps: If you can’t find fat-free vegan yogurt, blend silken tofu with a splash of lemon juice until smooth for a similar creamy texture.
• Sugar-free: Omit the maple syrup or use a pinch of stevia if you prefer.

“Coleslaw tastes even better after it sits for a few hours. The flavors meld and the cabbage softens slightly, creating the perfect texture.”

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for a 1-cup serving of this fat free vegan coleslaw:

Nutrition will vary depending on specific brands and quantities. This recipe is low-calorie, cholesterol-free, and packed with antioxidants!

Serving Suggestions

• Picnic Side: Serve alongside grilled veggies, vegan burgers, or BBQ tofu for a classic summer spread.
• Topping: Use as a crunchy topping for vegan chipotle bowls or tacos.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Add a scoop to your favorite veggie wrap or sandwich for extra texture and flavor.
• Bowl Meals: Pair with ancient grains, beans, and greens for a nourishing meal. Find inspiration in our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes.
• Salad Mix-in: Toss with leafy greens or roasted chickpeas for a more filling salad.

“Coleslaw is a fantastic meal prep item — it stays fresh and crunchy, making weekday lunches a breeze.”

Conclusion

Eating healthy, fat-free, and vegan doesn’t mean giving up on taste or texture. This coleslaw recipe fat free vegan proves that you can enjoy all the classic flavors and crunch of traditional slaw, minus the heaviness.

It’s a dish that will please everyone at the table, from plant-based eaters to omnivores looking for a lighter option.

Whether you’re whipping this up for a summer cookout or prepping meals for the week, this coleslaw is sure to become a go-to favorite. Play around with the veggies, add your own twist, and make it your own!

And if you’re looking to explore more healthy plant-based recipes, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or our Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.

Give this fat free vegan coleslaw a try and taste the difference a fresh, vibrant, and healthy side can make. Your body — and your taste buds — will thank you!

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