Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this best vegan coleslaw recipe! It’s so fresh and crunchy, it practically sings with flavor! I whip this up whenever I want a light and vibrant side dish that fits perfectly into my healthy lifestyle. Honestly, it’s so easy to prepare—just a quick mix and you’re done! I remember the first time I served this at a summer barbecue; everyone raved about it! The combination of green and red cabbage with sweet carrots makes it not only beautiful but also packed with nutrients. Plus, the creamy vegan dressing brings everything together in a way that’ll make your taste buds dance! Trust me, once you try this coleslaw, it’ll become a staple at your gatherings too!
Ingredients List
To create this delightful vegan coleslaw, you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded – This gives your coleslaw that classic crunch.
- 1 cup carrots, grated – Sweet and vibrant, they add color and flavor.
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded – For a pop of color and an extra crunch!
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise – This creamy base ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – A splash of tanginess to brighten the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup – For a hint of sweetness that balances the tang.
- 1 teaspoon celery seed – A subtle flavor note that elevates the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing all those flavors to life!
Make sure to have everything prepped before you start mixing, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious coleslaw in no time!
How to Prepare the Best Vegan Coleslaw Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the steps to whip up this scrumptious vegan coleslaw! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a refreshing side dish ready in no time!
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables
First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, and grated carrots. I like to give it a little toss with my hands to make sure everything is evenly mixed. Just imagine that crunch! This colorful medley not only looks fantastic but adds layers of flavor and texture to your coleslaw. Make sure to break up any clumps so each bite is packed with all those delicious veggies.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
Next up, let’s make that creamy dressing that ties everything together! In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, celery seed, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mixing it well is key here—this ensures every ingredient is fully incorporated and the flavors meld together beautifully. You want that creamy goodness to coat every inch of your veggies, so don’t skimp on the whisking!
Step 3: Toss and Chill
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, and give it a good toss. I like to use tongs for this part; it makes mixing super easy and keeps things neat. Make sure every bit of veggie is coated in that luscious dressing! Once it’s all mixed, cover your bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is essential; it allows the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to firm up a bit. Trust me, serving it cold makes all the difference!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan coleslaw is a total game-changer, and here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Quick and Easy: It comes together in just a few minutes—perfect for busy days!
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of crisp cabbage and sweet carrots creates a refreshing taste that brightens any meal.
- Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins and fiber, this coleslaw is a nutritious addition to your plate.
- Versatile: It pairs beautifully with everything from barbecue to tacos, making it a must-have at any gathering.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance, letting those flavors meld even more!
Seriously, once you try this coleslaw, it’ll become your go-to side dish for every occasion!
Tips for Success
To take your vegan coleslaw to the next level, here are some pro tips to ensure it’s absolutely perfect:
- Adjust the Sweetness: Don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of maple syrup based on your personal taste. A little more can really enhance that flavor!
- Texture Matters: For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or sunflower seeds just before serving.
- Herbs and Spice: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten up the dish. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
- Serving Suggestions: This coleslaw is fantastic on its own, but try serving it alongside grilled veggies or as a topping for tacos for a fun twist!
With these tips, you’ll impress everyone with your coleslaw skills!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying this best vegan coleslaw recipe, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s not just delicious but also nutritious! Here’s the estimated nutritional data per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
Keep in mind that these numbers can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, this coleslaw is a healthy addition to your meals!
FAQ Section
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making this coleslaw ahead of time is a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier! Just prepare it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving!
What variations can I try?
There are so many fun variations you can try with this vegan coleslaw! If you want a bit of a tangy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of lime juice. For added crunch, toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. You can even swap out the carrots for other veggies, like bell peppers or radishes, for a different flavor profile. Get creative!
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of vegan?
Sure! If you’re not following a vegan diet, you can absolutely use regular mayonnaise instead of vegan. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor slightly, making it creamier. But hey, it’s all about what you love, so feel free to use what you have on hand!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious vegan coleslaw is super simple! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 days, but trust me, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days when the veggies are still crisp. As for reheating, you really don’t need to! This coleslaw is meant to be served cold, so just give it a good toss before serving it up again. If you find it a bit watery after sitting, just drain any excess liquid and enjoy that crunchy, vibrant goodness all over again!
Print
Best Vegan Coleslaw Recipe: 5 Fresh Flavors to Love
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A fresh and crunchy vegan coleslaw that is easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, mix vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
- Toss until the vegetables are well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup.
- Add chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- Best served cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: best vegan coleslaw recipe
