Quick Cabbage & Carrot Slaw
This Quick Cabbage & Carrot Slaw is a light, refreshing, and tangy side dish, made effortlessly with a vibrant vinegar-based dressing that highlights the crispness of fresh vegetables.
For 4 servings
Prepare the vegetables: Remove any outer leaves from the cabbage, then cut it in half and thinly slice or shred it using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor. Peel and grate the carrots.
Combine vegetables: Place the shredded cabbage and grated carrots into a large mixing bowl.
Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
Dress the slaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots in the large mixing bowl.
Toss thoroughly: Using tongs or clean hands, toss the vegetables with the dressing until everything is evenly coated. Ensure the dressing reaches all parts of the slaw.
Rest (optional): For best flavor and slightly softened vegetables, cover the bowl and let the slaw rest in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
Serve: Give the slaw a final toss and serve immediately as a refreshing side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For ultra-thin and uniform cabbage shreds, use a mandoline slicer. Be sure to use a guard for safety.
- 2Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the dressing to your preference. Add a little more honey for sweetness or a splash more vinegar for extra zing.
- 3To add more crunch and color, consider incorporating finely diced bell peppers (red or yellow) or thinly sliced radishes into the slaw.
- 4While delicious immediately, allowing the slaw to sit for 15-30 minutes before serving helps the flavors deepen and the cabbage to slightly soften, enhancing the overall texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a subtle heat.
Herbal FreshnessHerbal Freshness
Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill right before serving for an aromatic boost.
Creamy LightCreamy Light
For a slightly creamier texture without the heaviness, whisk 1-2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise alternative into the dressing.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Cabbage is an excellent source of Vitamin C and K, while carrots are packed with Vitamin A (beta-carotene), essential for vision and immune health.
High in Fiber
Both cabbage and carrots are rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain satiety.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
This slaw provides a good dose of antioxidants from both vegetables, helping to combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can prepare this slaw up to 2-3 hours in advance. For best texture, avoid making it too far ahead as the vegetables can release water and become less crisp.


