Best Healthy Coleslaw Ever (no mayo!)
User Reviews
4.9
Best Healthy Coleslaw Ever (no mayo!)
Description
Best Healthy Coleslaw Ever (no mayo!) features crisp shredded cabbage and carrots accented by the brightness of cilantro and mild heat from jalapeño. Toasted almonds and pepitas add a nutty crunch that complements the fresh vegetables. The dressing uses olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup for balanced acidity and subtle sweetness, mingled with garlic and optional cayenne for a slight kick. This slaw is tossed and chilled for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to intensify and the textures to mingle.
The preparation is straightforward: combine the shredded veggies and herbs, whisk the dressing, and let it marinate before adding the crunchy nuts and seeds. This makes it an easy make-ahead dish. Because it avoids mayonnaise, it stays fresh longer in the refrigerator and offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing texture or taste.
It pairs well alongside grilled meats or as a crisp topping for sandwiches and tacos. The jalapeño adds a gentle heat, which you can adjust by including the seeds or omitting them. The pepitas and almonds provide nutritional value and complement the fresh vegetables with their toasted richness.
Store the coleslaw covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. It benefits from resting as the flavors deepen, making it ideal to prepare a day ahead for events or casual meals.
Ingredients
- For the slaw:
- 1/2 purple cabbage medium head, shredded (about 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 green cabbage medium head, shredded (about 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 carrot heaping cup(s), shredded
- 1 cup cilantro finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño seeded and finely diced
- 1/2 cup green onion green part only
- 1/2 cup Pepitas
- 1/4 cup almonds toasted, sliced
- For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup depending on sweetness preference
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- ½ teaspoon salt
- black pepper freshly cracked
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients for the slaw except for the almonds and pepitas to a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Pour all over the slaw and toss well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Cover and place in fridge for at least an hour to allow flavors to marinate together.
- Before serving, sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds and pepitas; toss again and serve.
Notes
- Store coleslaw covered in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing flavors to develop.
- The marinade time enhances the texture and melds the flavors.
- Adjust maple syrup amount to taste for desired sweetness.
- Toast almonds and pepitas before adding for best crunch and flavor.
- Seed the jalapeño to reduce heat if preferred or keep seeds for more spice.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 140 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 140cal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 14.5g | 5% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 8.8g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Fiber | 4.6g | 18% |
| Sugar | 8.4g | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.