The first time I tasted a tangy red cabbage slaw at a summer barbecue, it was like discovering a hidden treasure. That delightful crunch and the zesty sweetness paired perfectly with everything on my plate, transforming the ordinary into something special. I’ve since perfected my own Red Cabbage Slaw Recipe, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen.
What I love most is how effortlessly it brings a burst of color and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re dishing out street tacos, grilled fish, or simply hosting a casual weeknight dinner, this slaw elevates the experience in just 10 minutes of prep. Imagine crisp, vibrant vegetables mingling with a tangy dressing—each bite awakens your taste buds and leaves you wanting more.
If you’re in search of a quick and delicious side dish that turns heads and delights palates, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
Why is this Red Cabbage Slaw Recipe a Must-Try?
Effortless Preparation: This slaw comes together in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute side dish for any gathering.
Vibrant Colors: The stunning hues of red cabbage, carrots, and cilantro will brighten up your plate and impress your guests.
Flavor Explosion: With a tangy dressing that strikes a perfect balance of sweet and savory, each bite feels refreshing and exciting.
Versatile Pairing: It complements a variety of meals, from street tacos to grilled fish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Healthy Choice: With only 43 calories per serving, this slaw is a deliciously light option packed with vitamins—perfect for summer eating!
Red Cabbage Slaw Ingredients
For the Slaw
• Red Cabbage – Provides the base and crunch; thinly slice for optimum texture.
• Cilantro – Adds freshness and a distinctive flavor; increase for a stronger herb note.
• Carrots – Contributes sweetness and color; must be peeled and shredded to blend well.
For the Dressing
• Rice Vinegar – Gives a tangy kick; can substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the acidity of the vinegar; honey or agave can be used as alternatives.
• Honey – Adds natural sweetness; optional if reducing added sugars is desired.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste; adjust according to your preference.
How to Make Red Cabbage Slaw
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together finely sliced red cabbage, chopped cilantro, and shredded carrots. This colorful blend is key to a crunchy and vibrant slaw.
Whisk Dressing: In a separate container, whisk rice vinegar, granulated sugar, honey, salt, and pepper until well blended and dissolved. This dressing will give your slaw that tangy kick!
Dress the Slaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage mixture and gently toss everything together. Ensure all the veggies are coated in the tangy deliciousness for maximum flavor.
Chill Out: Cover the bowl and let the slaw rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a refreshing dish.
Serve & Enjoy: Give the slaw a good stir before serving to evenly distribute the dressing. Enjoy it as a side or topping to your favorite summer meals!
Optional: Top with sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Red Cabbage Slaw Variations
Feel free to get creative with your slaw, adding delightful twists that cater to your palate!
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery twist that amps up the flavor profile. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat!
Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted sunflower or sesame seeds for a crunchy texture that complements the slaw beautifully. This added layer of flavor creates a satisfying bite.
Fruity Twist: Mix in diced apples, pears, or even mandarin oranges for a hint of sweetness that balances the tang. The fruitiness enhances the slaw’s refreshing nature and makes it a standout dish.
Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing for a creamy slaw that still maintains the fresh zing. This creamy twist is perfect for creamy coleslaw lovers!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh mint or basil in place of cilantro to bring a refreshing herbal note that brightens the slaw. Each bite will be a burst of freshness!
Vinegar Variety: Swap rice vinegar for rice wine or lemon juice for a different acidity profile that can make the flavors pop in unexpected ways. Each variation gives a unique tangy layer to your dish.
Colorful Crunch: Include shredded red or yellow bell peppers for added color and sweetness. This simple addition elevates not just the flavor but also the visual appeal of your slaw!
How to Store and Freeze Red Cabbage Slaw
Fridge: Store your Red Cabbage Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its crunch, though it may lose some freshness over time.
Make-Ahead: If preparing in advance, whip up the slaw a day ahead of your event. Keeping it covered allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ready for serving.
Freezer: Generally, it’s best not to freeze this slaw due to the crunchiness of fresh vegetables. Freezing can make the cabbage and carrots mushy when thawed.
Reheating: If you choose to serve the slaw after refrigeration, simply stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing, ensuring a fresh taste with every bite!
Expert Tips for Red Cabbage Slaw Recipe
- Slice Thinly: Ensure your red cabbage is sliced thinly for the best texture—bite-sized pieces help it blend well with the dressing.
- Chill Time Matters: Allow the slaw to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour; this step is crucial for enhancing flavor infusion.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to mix in extras like diced apples or thinly sliced green onions for a twist on the classic red cabbage slaw recipe.
- Dress Right Before Serving: To keep your slaw crisp, add the dressing right before serving, or stir well if it has been sitting.
- Store Wisely: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, but be aware that the slaw may become soggy over time.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Cabbage Slaw preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the red cabbage and shred the carrots up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. The dressing can also be whisked together ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the slaw fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy, mix the dressing with the veggies just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your tangy Red Cabbage Slaw, simply combine the prepped ingredients, give it a good stir, and you’ll have a vibrant side dish ready in mere minutes!
What to Serve with Red Cabbage Slaw?
Elevate your next meal with vibrant accompaniments that enhance the fresh crunch of this delightful slaw.
Street Tacos: The bright and tangy slaw adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly balances the rich toppings and savory meats of tacos.
Grilled Fish: A side of grilled fish paired with red cabbage slaw provides a symphony of flavors, where the slaw cuts through the richness and complements the dish beautifully.
Barbecue Sandwiches: The sweet and tangy notes in the slaw wonderfully contrast with the smoky flavors of barbecue, creating a satisfying bite.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted veggies for a warm, comforting meal; the slaw’s coolness enhances the comforting flavors of the dish.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and sweet, a fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the tangy slaw, adding a burst of seasonal brightness to your plate.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with freshly squeezed lemonade or a glass of iced tea. The tartness and sweetness in these drinks refresh the palate and enhance the meal experience.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with these classic cookies; the slight saltiness of the slaw works beautifully with the sweet flavors of chocolate, making for a delightful finish to your meal.
Red Cabbage Slaw Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right red cabbage?
Absolutely! Look for red cabbage that is firm, with tight leaves and a vibrant color. Avoid any heads with dark spots or wilting, as these signals indicate they may be past their prime. Freshness is key for that wonderful crunch!
What’s the best way to store leftover Red Cabbage Slaw?
To keep your slaw fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the slaw may lose some of its crispness over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two.
Can I freeze Red Cabbage Slaw?
I really don’t recommend freezing this slaw. Freezing can make the fresh vegetables soggy and mushy upon thawing, which takes away the delightful crunch. Instead, enjoy it fresh or make it a day ahead of time to enhance flavor! If you must freeze, consider freezing the dressing separately and only combine them when ready to serve.
How can I prevent my slaw from becoming soggy?
Very! To keep your slaw crunchy, avoid dressing it until you’re ready to serve. If it has been sitting for a while, give it a gentle stir to redistribute any liquid that may have accumulated at the bottom. Allowing it to REST for at least an hour also helps the flavors meld without getting soggy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This Red Cabbage Slaw is gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by omitting honey and opting for a suitable sweetener. Always consider any allergies when adjusting ingredients—some people may have sensitivities to cilantro or honey. If you’re serving pets, it’s safe to keep the slaw away from them, as some ingredients (like onions) can be harmful.
Zesty Red Cabbage Slaw Recipe for Fresh Summer Meals
Equipment
- - Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- - Knife
- - Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Slaw
- 1 head Red Cabbage thinly sliced
- 1/2 bunch Cilantro chopped
- 2 medium Carrots peeled and shredded
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar can substitute with apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar or honey/agave as alternatives
- 1 tablespoon Honey optional
- to taste Salt & Pepper for seasoning
Instructions
Steps to Make Red Cabbage Slaw
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together finely sliced red cabbage, chopped cilantro, and shredded carrots.
- In a separate container, whisk rice vinegar, granulated sugar, honey, salt, and pepper until well blended and dissolved.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage mixture and gently toss everything together.
- Cover the bowl and let the slaw rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Give the slaw a good stir before serving to evenly distribute the dressing.