Imagine sitting at a sun-drenched picnic table, surrounded by laughter and the aroma of good food. As you take a bite of a refreshing, creamy Vegan Coleslaw, a sense of joy washes over you. The delightful combination of crisp vegetables merged with a tangy, dairy-free dressing not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body.
This plant-based coleslaw offers a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional recipes that often rely heavily on mayonnaise. With just 10 minutes of preparation, you can whip up this healthy coleslaw recipe that’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. Dive into a bowl of vibrant flavors and textures as you explore the endless benefits of this delicious dish.
What is Vegan Coleslaw?
Vegan coleslaw is a salad made from shredded cabbage and carrots. It’s a plant-based dish that doesn’t include animal products. Instead, it uses healthier dressings like vinaigrette or tahini.
This salad is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to get important vitamins and minerals. You can make it without mayo by using apple cider vinegar, sugar, and celery seed.
This salad is perfect for those who want something light and refreshing. You can add fresh herbs, nuts, or fruits to make it even better. It’s a great choice for any meal because you can customize it so much.
Health Benefits of Vegan Coleslaw
Vegan coleslaw is packed with nutrients. It’s made mainly of cabbage, which is full of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. These help with digestive health and reduce inflammation. Carrots add beta-carotene, boosting the dish’s nutritional value.
One serving of this low-calorie side dish gives you about 30% of your daily Vitamin C. It’s great for a balanced diet, fitting for vegans, vegetarians, and those with dietary restrictions.
The fiber in coleslaw is another plus. Each serving has about 1.5 grams of fiber. Eating more fiber can lower the risk of digestive problems by up to 40%. Adding green cabbage to your meals can increase your fiber intake by 10-15%, aiding in digestion.
Adding nutritious coleslaw to your meals can also lower heart disease risk. Vegan diets may reduce this risk by 15-25%. So, vegan coleslaw not only makes meals better but also supports a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients for a Delicious Vegan Coleslaw
To make a tasty vegan coleslaw, start with fresh, vibrant ingredients for vegan coleslaw. Use high-quality veggies like shredded green and red cabbage. They add color and nutrients. Aim for 4 cups of green cabbage and 2 cups of red cabbage for the best mix.
Add a couple of julienned or shredded carrots for crunch. For a healthy twist, add chopped spring onions or minced garlic. These ingredients make a strong base for your coleslaw.
The dressing is key in this no mayo coleslaw recipe. Mix ⅓ cup of vegan mayo, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. This combo is creamy and tangy. Season with ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar for balance. You can also add sunflower seeds or fresh herbs like dill or chives for extra flavor and crunch.
Here’s a complete overview of the ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded Green Cabbage | 4 cups |
| Shredded Red Cabbage | 2 cups |
| Carrots | 1 to 2 (julienned or shredded) |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 to 2 cloves |
| Vegan Mayo | 3/4 cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon (optional) |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chopped Chives | 3 tablespoons |
| Lemon Juice | 1 to 2 tablespoons |
| Dill or Sweet Relish | 3 tablespoons |
Using these healthy coleslaw ingredients makes your coleslaw nutritious and flavorful. Enjoy it fresh or store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Letting it meld in the fridge for at least an hour before serving enhances the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Vegan Coleslaw Dressing
Making creamy vegan coleslaw dressing is easy and fun. Your taste buds will love the mix of flavors. Start with the right ingredients for a homemade vegan dressing that you’ll enjoy.
Preparation steps:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of egg-free mayo with 1 tablespoon of vinegar. Options like white wine or apple cider vinegar work well.
- Add 1 ½ tablespoons of lemon juice for extra zing.
- To add sweetness, mix in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or your preferred sweetener.
- Season with salt and coarse black pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference.
- In a small container, whisk together the ingredients until fully emulsified.
This easy coleslaw dressing recipe makes about 12-14 ounces. It’s perfect for 6-8 cups of shredded veggies. The dressing is light and dairy-free, adding a fresh taste to your coleslaw. Let it chill in the fridge for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Try different vinegars or sweeteners to add your own twist. This makes your coleslaw dressing even more special. Enjoy making this tasty dressing and making your coleslaw even better!
Easy Steps to Prepare Your Vegan Coleslaw
Making vegan coleslaw is simple and fun. Follow this easy vegan coleslaw step-by-step coleslaw recipe. It’s perfect for any occasion.
- Shred the Cabbage: Use about 3 cups each of green cabbage and 1 cup of red cabbage. You can do this by hand or with a food processor.
- Grate the Carrots: Include 2 medium-sized shredded carrots for added crunch and sweetness.
- Mix It Up: Combine the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
- Add the Dressing: Toss the vegetables with a dressing made of 1/2 cup vegan mayo, 1/4 cup minced red onion, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds, and a pinch of salt.
- Let It Rest: Allow your coleslaw to sit for 20 to 30 minutes. This step enhances the flavors and improves texture.
- Serve Chilled: For optimal taste, serve your coleslaw cold, ideally after chilling in the refrigerator.
This straightforward guide on making vegan coleslaw ensures each step is accessible. You can serve a refreshing side that’s both healthy and tasty.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 242 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 17 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 343 mg |
| Potassium | 267 mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Sugar | 11 g |
| Vitamin A | 5396 IU |
| Vitamin C | 37 mg |
| Calcium | 48 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Vegan Coleslaw Variations to Try
Exploring vegan coleslaw variations can spark your creativity in the kitchen. It’s more than just a basic recipe. You can make it your own with unique ideas.
Try adding chopped apples for a sweet touch, or raisins and cranberries for a fruity surprise. For crunch, walnuts or almonds are great. If you like spice, jalapeños or hot sauce can add a kick.
Adding different veggies can change the game. Bell peppers, radishes, or shredded carrots can make your coleslaw look and taste better. These changes also make it healthier.
Creative coleslaw recipes let you put your own spin on it. This way, you can enjoy veganism in your own way.
Quick Reference Table for Vegan Coleslaw Variations
| Variation | Flavor Profile | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped Apples | Sweet | Increased fiber and natural sweetness |
| Raisins/Cranberries | Fruity | Antioxidants and added texture |
| Nuts (Walnuts/Almonds) | Crunchy | Healthy fats and protein |
| Jalapeños/Hot Sauce | Spicy | Boosts metabolism, adds excitement |
| Bell Peppers/Radishes | Crisp & Colorful | High in vitamins and minerals |
Don’t be afraid to try new things with vegan coleslaw. Make it your own and enjoy the process. It’s all about having fun in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions for Your Vegan Coleslaw
Vegan coleslaw is incredibly versatile. It can be a refreshing side to many meals. Try it with barbecue favorites for a tangy crunch that complements smoky flavors.
It’s also great with sandwiches or tacos, making a simple meal special. The mix of textures and flavors is delightful. Feel free to add fresh herbs or a bit of citrus for extra zest.
- Grilled vegetables pair well with coleslaw, making a balanced meal.
- Bean burgers are a tasty match, offering a filling meal without losing flavor.
- Use it in a taco bar for guests to create their own perfect dish.
- It’s also great with roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries for a crunchy side.
Vegan coleslaw is perfect for summer picnics. It adds a refreshing, crisp touch to hot dishes. You can even top nachos or baked potatoes with it, making them exciting and new.
Storage Tips for Leftover Vegan Coleslaw
Keeping coleslaw fresh and tasty is key. Always use an airtight container for the best results. This keeps the flavors and textures of your ingredients in check, especially with large batches.
Leftover vegan coleslaw can stay fresh in the fridge for 2-5 days. This timeframe helps you enjoy your coleslaw at its best.
Remember, the coloslaw shelf life affects its texture. Over time, moisture can make it soggy. To avoid this, store the dressing separately until serving. This keeps the salad crisp and prevents it from getting too wet.
| Storage Method | Time Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight Container (Refrigerator) | 2-5 days | Store without dressing for best texture |
| Freezing (Not Recommended) | N/A | Texture may change; not advisable |
If you want to keep coleslaw fresh, know that flavors often get better after a day. This allows the flavors to blend, making the taste even better. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your leftovers without losing their freshness.
Why Choose Vegan Coleslaw Over Traditional Coleslaw?
Vegan coleslaw has fewer calories and less fat than traditional coleslaw. This is because it doesn’t have mayonnaise. Traditional coleslaw can have over 80 calories in just two tablespoons of dressing. Vegan mayo, on the other hand, has about 50 calories.
Vegan coleslaw focuses more on fresh veggies. This makes it taste better and gives you important nutrients. Vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower in vegan coleslaw can help fight cancer. They also make the dish light and tangy, unlike traditional coleslaw.
Vegan coleslaw also has more fiber than traditional coleslaw. Vegan recipes often use fruits and veggies, which add 2-4 grams of fiber per serving. Traditional coleslaw doesn’t have much fiber because it doesn’t have many fruits.
- Raisins add nutritional value with approximately 9% of the daily recommended potassium in a 1/4 cup serving.
- Walnuts, a common inclusion, may reduce inflammation, highlighting the benefits of vegan coleslaw.
- Apple cider vinegar is known to promote feelings of fullness, supporting those looking to manage their weight.
Vegan coleslaw uses zero-calorie sweeteners like liquid stevia. This makes it different from traditional recipes, which often use sugar. Eating plant-based, like vegan coleslaw, can help lower heart disease risk by 15-50%, research shows.
In conclusion, vegan coleslaw is more than just a tasty side. It’s a nutritious choice that meets dietary needs and offers great flavors and textures. Try vegan coleslaw at your next meal.
Conclusion
In this vegan coleslaw recap, you’ve learned how to make a tasty and healthy dish. You’ve also seen the many benefits it adds to your meals. Using fresh ingredients like green cabbage and carrots, you get a low-calorie, nutrient-rich side dish.
With just 80 calories per serving, making coleslaw at home is easy and rewarding. It’s a mix of crunch and creaminess that’s hard to resist.
Trying out different variations and serving ideas lets you customize your coleslaw. You can use a zesty dressing or add bell peppers or chickpeas. This recipe is perfect for your adventurous cooking spirit.
Vegan coleslaw is a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. It also keeps well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead of time. Enjoy it for days!
Adding this dish to your meal prep lets you share plant-based eating with others. So, get ready to make your own vegan coleslaw. You’ll be happy you did!