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When it comes to classic side dishes, coleslaw has always been a crowd-pleaser. This Creamy Vegan Coleslaw’s crisp and refreshing qualities make it the perfect companion for everything from potluck and dinners to picnics in the park.
You can indulge in this salad’s creamy and refreshing taste any time of the year. Although it’s a popular summer dish, it is just as satisfying during any season. With the versatility of various toppings, you can customize it to fit seasonal preferences and make it a perfect addition to any meal.
This Creamy Vegan Coleslaw is a lifesaver for those with dietary restrictions. It’s free from common allergens like dairy, gluten, and eggs, making it suitable for vegans and anyone with those food sensitivities. But don’t think for a second that it lacks flavor or creaminess.
It’s also free from oil and nuts.
ORIGINS OF THE COLESLAW SALAD
Coleslaw, in various forms, has a history that dates back centuries. Some culinary historians believe that coleslaw’s roots can be traced back to the ancient Romans, but it also likely has Dutch roots, with the term “coleslaw” coming from the Dutch word “koolsla” for “cabbage salad.”
It evolved over centuries, with variations in Europe and colonial America. The modern coleslaw we know features shredded cabbage and carrots with a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing.
Creative additions like apples, raisins, and nuts showcase its versatility.
WHY CABBAGE IS GOOD FOR YOU
Cabbage, the star of coleslaw, is not just a crunchy addition to your plate.
It’s packed with nutrients! This cruciferous vegetable is low in calories and high in fiber, making it great for digestion. It’s also a rich source of vitamins C and K, both of which contribute to a healthy immune system and bone health. Plus, cabbage contains antioxidants that may help combat inflammation.
So, not only does coleslaw taste great, but it’s also a nutritional powerhouse!
HOW TO PREPARE THIS CREAMY VEGAN COLESLAW
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
Who doesn’t love a creamy coleslaw? Without discussion, it is my house’s favorite salad, no matter what season it is.
Preparing this Creamy Vegan Coleslaw is straightforward, with easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps.
Start by whisking together a creamy dressing. Then, shred green and purple cabbage finely and julienne or grate carrots.
Toss the veggies in the dressing, chill, and enjoy the perfect blend of crunch and creaminess in this plant-based delight.
The success of this recipe centers on its creamy dressing, which combines a variety of flavors and textures to create a coleslaw you won’t be able to resist. Let’s take a closer look at the key components.
KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
Before we dive into the details of the ingredients, let’s gather our tools:
- Cutting board and Sharp knife: Precise chopping of the veggies.
- Large Mixing Bowl: This will be your canvas for creating the coleslaw.
- Whisk and a small mixing bowl: You’ll need these to combine the dressing ingredients into a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Vegetable Peeler/Grater or Julienne Cutter: To prepare the carrots, you can either peel and grate them or use a julienne cutter to create thin, matchstick-like strips. Another helpful tool is a Mandolin.
INGREDIENTS
Now, let’s explore the ingredients and why they are essential in this dish.
For the coleslaw:
- Green Cabbage: The foundation of coleslaw, providing crunch and loads of nutrients.
- Purple Cabbage: Not only does it lend vibrant color, but it also adds texture and flavor to the dish.
- Carrots: Adding color and natural sweetness, carrots complement the cabbage beautifully.
For the creamy dressing:
- Vegan Mayonnaise: The base of the dressing provides richness and creaminess without dairy. I’m using this homemade vegan mayo recipe.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick and depth of flavor.
- Apple Cider Vinegar provides a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the dressing.
- Maple Syrup offers a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
- Celery Seed: This spice adds a unique earthy note to the dressing.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
Optional add-ins or extras:
- Raisins or Dried Cranberries: For a sweet twist contrasting with savory components.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and a burst of color.
- Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): Introduces a delightful nutty crunch to every bite.
- Apples: thinly sliced or diced for a refreshing fruity touch.
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
These are the easy steps to prepare this delicious and creamy vegan coleslaw:
Craft this delectable Coleslaw by whisking up a creamy dressing with vegan mayo, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, almond milk, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
The next step is finely shredding green and purple cabbage (using a knife or a mandolin), julienning or grating the carrots, and adding them to a mixing bowl.
Then combine the luscious dressing with the veggies, toss well, and consider optional add-ins for a personal touch.
After a brief chill in the fridge to meld flavors, serve this versatile coleslaw as a side or sandwich to relish the delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Enjoy!
What you’ll love about this recipe? There’s so much to adore about our Creamy Vegan Coleslaw:
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only basic kitchen tools.
- The creamy dressing is a flavor bomb, perfectly balancing sweetness and tanginess.
- You can customize it with your favorite add-ins for a unique twist.
- It’s allergen-friendly, accommodating various dietary needs.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, so you can enjoy it for days!
Let’s prepare this classic salad!
WATCH THE STEP-BY-STEP VIDEO!
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PRINTABLE RECIPE AND INSTRUCTIONS
CREAMY VEGAN COLESLAW
Equipment
- 1 chopping board
- 1 chef knife
- 2 mixing bowl
- 1 Mandolin (optional)
Ingredients
For the creamy dressing:
- 3/4 cup vegan mayo (oil-free homemade mayo)
- 2 tbsp dijon mustard
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp celery seed
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the coleslaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage (finely shredded, around 1 small cabbage)
- 2 cup purple cabbage (finely shredded, around 1 small cabbage)
- 2 carrots (large, peeled and grated or julienned)
Optional add-ins:
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried unsweetened cranberries
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for added freshness)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas for a nutty crunch)
- 1-2 apples (thinly sliced or diced)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3/4 cup of vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, celery seed, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Finely shred the green and purple cabbage and place them in a large mixing bowl. Peel the carrots, and you can either grate them or julienne them (cut into thin matchstick-like strips). Add the place the carrots to the bowl with the cabbage.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the creamy dressing in the large mixing bowl over the shredded vegetables. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Optional Add-Ins: If you'd like a sweeter coleslaw, add raisins or dried cranberries to the salad. Toss to combine. For added freshness and color, mix in chopped fresh parsley. Or, for a nutty crunch, add pumpkin seeds (pepitas) to the coleslaw.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step will allow the flavors to meld together and the coleslaw to become even creamier.
- Serve: Serve your creamy vegan coleslaw as a side dish at your next meal or as a topping for sandwiches and wraps. Enjoy!
Notes
- Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days.
- Coleslaw can be prepared a day in advance, covered tightly, and refrigerated. Stir well before serving.
Recipe adapted from Simple Recipes’ Classic Coleslaw.
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS CREAMY VEGAN COLESLAW
Now, how can you savor this delectable dish? Here are a few ideas:
- Classic Side Dish: Pair it with veggie burgers, grilled or baked tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein for a classic side dish.
- Burger Topper: Elevate your veggie burgers game by adding a generous scoop of coleslaw on top.
- Wrap or Sandwich Filling: Spread it inside a wrap or sandwich for a creamy, crunchy element.
- Picnic Essential: Pack it for a picnic and enjoy it alongside other vegan treats.
- Potluck Hit: Bring it to potlucks and watch it disappear in no time.
There you have it – this delightful and versatile Creamy Vegan Coleslaw recipe. It’s time to grab your ingredients, whip up this creamy goodness, and indulge in a plant-based coleslaw that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your health.
If you are hungry for some satisfying and delicious salad recipes, you could also try these ones:
DID YOU MAKE THIS CREAMY VEGAN COLESLAW?
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