Best Vegan Creamy Coleslaw Recipe for Easy Summer Sides

Looking for the perfect creamy coleslaw that’s completely vegan yet bursting with flavor? You’ve come to the right place!

This best vegan creamy coleslaw recipe is a refreshing, tangy, and delicious side dish that complements any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or just want a vibrant salad to brighten up your weekday dinners, this coleslaw is incredibly easy to make and uses wholesome, plant-based ingredients.

The creamy dressing is made from cashews and vegan mayo, creating a luscious texture that clings beautifully to the fresh, crisp cabbage and carrots.

Unlike traditional coleslaw, this vegan version is free from dairy and eggs but doesn’t skimp on that satisfying creaminess we all love. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients.

Keep reading to find out why this recipe will quickly become your go-to coleslaw, the ingredients you’ll need, and some handy tips to customize it to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan creamy coleslaw is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare—no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients here.

The dressing is smooth and rich thanks to the use of soaked cashews, which provide a natural creaminess without any dairy.

Second, it’s versatile and customizable. You can tweak the tanginess, sweetness, and spice level to suit your preferences.

It’s also a fantastic way to add a vibrant, crunchy vegetable side to any meal.

Last but not least, it’s nutrient-rich yet indulgent. Loaded with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing, this coleslaw is a healthier alternative to traditional creamy coleslaws that rely on mayonnaise and heavy cream.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
• 2 cups shredded purple cabbage (for color and flavor)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
• 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
• 1/3 cup vegan mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds tanginess)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for natural sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for subtle heat and depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional, for traditional flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing as needed)

Equipment

• Food processor or high-speed blender (for creamy dressing)
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Vegetable peeler or grater
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Serving bowl or container with lid (for chilling)

Instructions

1. Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover with warm water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to soften. This helps create a smooth, creamy dressing.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the cashews soak, shred the green and purple cabbage finely using a sharp knife or food processor. Peel and grate the carrots. Combine all the shredded veggies in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the dressing: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to your food processor or blender. Add vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, celery seed (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Toss the coleslaw: Pour the creamy dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots. Use a spatula to mix everything thoroughly until the veggies are well coated with the dressing.
5. Chill: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the cabbage a chance to soften slightly.
6. Final seasoning: Taste the coleslaw after chilling and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed. Give it one last gentle toss before serving.

Tips & Variations

For the creamiest dressing, be sure to soak your cashews long enough—overnight soaking is even better!

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Use different veggies: Try adding shredded red onion, bell pepper, or even thinly sliced apple for extra crunch and flavor.
• Nut-free option: Substitute soaked silken tofu or vegan yogurt in place of cashews if you have nut allergies.
• Sweeten it up: Adjust the maple syrup quantity to your liking, or use agave nectar or coconut sugar as alternatives.
• Make it oil-free: Use an oil-free vegan mayo or homemade aquafaba mayo to keep the recipe light.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan creamy coleslaw pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes and occasions. Serve it alongside your favorite vegan burgers, grilled tofu steaks, or as a fresh topping on sandwiches and wraps.

It’s a vibrant, healthy side that adds a delightful crunch and creaminess to any meal.

Hosting a barbecue or picnic? This coleslaw will be a hit as a side dish and can easily be made in large batches ahead of time.

For a Southern-inspired feast, try pairing it with a smoky jackfruit pulled “pork” sandwich—check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for some spicy vegan meat alternatives!

Want to experiment with other vegan recipes? You might love our Leche De Pantera Recipe for a refreshing vegan drink or try the scrumptious Johnny Carino’S Recipes Skilletini for a hearty vegan skillet meal.

Conclusion

In summary, this best vegan creamy coleslaw recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a fresh, creamy, and completely plant-based side dish. Its balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors makes it incredibly versatile and loved by vegans and non-vegans alike.

With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip up a batch in no time that will elevate any meal.

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just enjoying a casual dinner, this coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch and satisfying creaminess without any dairy or eggs. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste using the tips above, and feel free to experiment with variations.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious vegan coleslaw!

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