Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a refreshing side dish that’s both delicious and super easy to whip up, you’ve just found the best vegan coleslaw recipe! Seriously, this coleslaw is a game changer. It’s crunchy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor that’ll make your taste buds sing. I love that it’s not only simple to make but also packed with healthy ingredients that everyone can enjoy, whether you’re vegan or not. Trust me, once you toss together that crisp cabbage and sweet carrots with the creamy dressing, you’ll be hooked! Plus, it’s a fantastic addition to any BBQ, picnic, or potluck. Let’s dive into how to make this tasty dish that’s sure to impress all your friends and family!
Ingredients List
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare the Best Vegan Coleslaw Recipe
Making this coleslaw is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how quick it comes together! Just follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll have a bowl of crunchy goodness ready to enjoy. Don’t forget, chilling it for a bit really helps the flavors meld together, so plan for at least 30 minutes of refrigeration before serving!
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables
First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in those 4 cups of shredded green cabbage, 1 cup of grated carrots, and 1/2 cup of shredded red cabbage. I like to mix them all up with my hands to really get those veggies to know each other, but a spoon works just fine, too! You want them evenly distributed to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of vegan mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of celery seeds. Make sure it’s nice and smooth—this dressing is where all the creamy goodness comes from! The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that balances perfectly with the tangy vinegar.
Step 3: Mix Together
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Pour that luscious dressing over your cabbage mixture and toss everything together until the veggies are well coated. You want to make sure every piece of cabbage and carrot gets a nice hug from the dressing. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Step 4: Season and Chill
Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a good pinch of each and adjust according to my liking. Once seasoned, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully and gives the coleslaw that crisp texture we all love. After that, it’s ready to serve, and I can’t wait for you to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It comes together in just 15 minutes—perfect for those busy days!
- Absolutely bursting with flavor; every bite is a crunchy delight!
- Made with fresh, healthy ingredients that everyone can feel good about.
- Pairs beautifully with all your favorite BBQ dishes—it’s a must-have side!
- Totally customizable; you can tweak it to suit your taste buds!
- Vegan-friendly, so it caters to a wide range of dietary preferences.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family gatherings—everyone will want your secret!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about some tried-and-true tips to elevate your coleslaw game! I’ve learned a few things along the way that can really make your vegan coleslaw stand out.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you like your coleslaw on the sweeter side, feel free to add a bit more maple syrup. Just taste as you go—it’s all about finding that perfect balance for your palate!
- Add Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider tossing in some sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or even chopped walnuts. They’ll add a delightful crunch that complements the veggies beautifully.
- Experiment with Veggies: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try adding some grated apples for sweetness, or throw in some bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten up your coleslaw and add a lovely freshness. Just chop them finely and mix them in!
- Let It Chill: Remember, the longer it sits in the fridge, the better the flavors meld together. If you have time, let it chill for a couple of hours before serving—it’s worth the wait!
- Serving Suggestions: This coleslaw isn’t just a side dish; it’s also fantastic as a topping for tacos or sandwiches. Get creative and enjoy!
These little tips will help you master the best vegan coleslaw recipe and make it your own. Enjoy the process and have fun experimenting!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this coleslaw and make it your own! Here are some variations I love that add a unique twist to the classic recipe:
- Nutty Delight: Add sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or even chopped pecans for that extra crunch. The nuts not only enhance the texture but also bring in some healthy fats!
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in some diced apples or pears for a sweet surprise. They’ll add a lovely sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy dressing!
- Extra Veggies: Don’t stop at cabbage and carrots! You can include grated beets for a pop of color, or finely chopped bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños. It’ll give your coleslaw an exciting zing!
- Herbaceous Twist: Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can really elevate the flavors. Just chop them finely and mix them in for a fresh, vibrant taste.
- Creamy Avocado: For a richer dressing, mash in some ripe avocado to your vegan mayonnaise mixture. It’s creamy, dreamy, and adds a whole new dimension!
- Asian-Inspired: Swap the apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar and add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil. Toss in some edamame or shredded snow peas for a delightful twist!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving. The best part about this vegan coleslaw is that it’s super versatile—get creative and enjoy your culinary adventure!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious vegan coleslaw is super easy! Just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. I recommend giving it a little stir before serving if it’s been sitting for a while, just to redistribute that yummy dressing!
Now, here’s the thing: coleslaw is best enjoyed cold and crunchy, so there’s really no reheating involved. Just scoop out a serving and enjoy that refreshing crunch straight from the fridge! If you find that it seems a bit watery after a day or two, don’t worry—just give it a good mix to incorporate everything again. Trust me, it’s still going to taste amazing!
Also, if you’re serving it at a gathering, you can make it a bit ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge for a few hours. This helps the flavors meld together even more, making it taste even better! Just remember to cover it well to keep those flavors intact. Enjoy your coleslaw adventure!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s take a look at the estimated nutritional values for this scrumptious vegan coleslaw! Remember, these are based on typical ingredients and can vary a bit depending on what you use, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying in each refreshing bite.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
This coleslaw is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients and fiber! So, dig in without any guilt and enjoy the vibrant flavors that come with it. Whether you’re serving it up at a BBQ or enjoying it as a simple side, you can feel great about what you’re eating!
FAQ Section
Can I make this coleslaw gluten-free?
Absolutely! This best vegan coleslaw recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that your vegan mayonnaise is also gluten-free. Just check the label to be safe!
What can I serve with this coleslaw?
Oh, the options are endless! This coleslaw is a fantastic side for BBQ dishes, burgers, or sandwiches. It also works beautifully as a topping for tacos or served alongside grilled veggies. It’s a perfect addition to any summer picnic or potluck!
How long does the coleslaw last in the fridge?
Your coleslaw will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember that it tastes best when enjoyed within the first couple of days since it can get a little watery over time.
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make it ahead! In fact, letting it chill for a few hours—or even overnight—allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute that yummy dressing!
What can I do if my coleslaw is too sour?
If you find the coleslaw too tangy, you can balance it out by adding a little more maple syrup or a touch of sugar. Just add a bit at a time, taste, and adjust until it’s just right for your palate!
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. You can add grated beets, diced bell peppers, or even some broccoli slaw for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!
Is it possible to make this coleslaw oil-free?
Yes, you can make this coleslaw oil-free by using a vegan mayonnaise that doesn’t contain any oil. There are great brands out there, or you can even make your own using blended silken tofu or aquafaba!
Learn more about coleslaw variations here.
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Best Vegan Coleslaw Recipe: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A fresh and crunchy vegan coleslaw recipe that is simple to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine green cabbage, carrots, and red cabbage.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and celery seeds.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
- Toss until all vegetables are well coated.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup.
- For extra crunch, include sliced almonds or sunflower seeds.
- This coleslaw pairs well with BBQ dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: best vegan coleslaw recipe
