Introduction to Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
When life gets busy, I often crave something quick yet delicious—like this Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw. It’s a vibrant dish that adds a burst of color and crunch to any meal. As a busy mom, I totally get those days when you need a quick solution that your family will actually love. This slaw is not just a side; it’s a delightful mix of flavors that brightens up your plate. Plus, it’s so easy to throw together, making it the perfect go-to for potlucks or weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
This Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw is a game-changer! It’s super quick to prepare, taking just 15 minutes of your time. The vibrant crunch of fresh veggies brings a refreshing taste that compliments any dish. Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit into any meal—be it a barbecue, family dinner, or a lunchbox surprise. You’ll love how it brightens your table and boosts your family’s veggie intake effortlessly!
Ingredients for Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw that’s as nutritious as it is tasty. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Red cabbage: This colorful cabbage adds a delightful crunch and a range of vitamins. Shredding it enhances the texture, making every bite satisfying.
- Carrots: Sweet and crunchy, carrots not only balance the tanginess but also add their beautiful orange hue, making the slaw visually inviting.
- Apple cider vinegar: This tangy ingredient is the heart of the dressing, lending a pleasant acidity that brightens up the flavors.
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle brings richness to the dish, staying heart-healthy while tying all the ingredients together in a loving embrace.
- Honey or maple syrup: Both options provide a natural sweetness. Honey is perfect for most, while maple syrup is ideal for a plant-based version.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors, adding these seasonings to taste allows you to customize the dish to your preference.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness or experiment with other additions, like chopped nuts or dried fruits for a twist. The exact quantities are available at the bottom of the article for your convenience and printing!
How to Make Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies
To create your Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw, start by shredding or spiralizing the cabbage and carrots. If you haven’t tried a spiralizer yet, it’s like a magic wand in the kitchen—turning veggies into fun shapes! If you choose to shred, use a sharp knife or box grater for a classic texture.
For a crunchier slaw, you can lightly salt the cabbage. This step helps draw out excess moisture. Just sprinkle a pinch of salt over the cabbage, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse and pat dry. This little trick makes your slaw even more enjoyable.
Step 2: Making the Dressing
Now, let’s whip up a simple dressing that packs a punch! In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and your choice of honey or maple syrup. Each ingredient has its role—vinegar brings brightness, while the oil adds richness. It’s crucial to taste as you go!
Don’t be shy about adjusting the seasoning. If it’s too tangy, add a bit more sweetener. For that ultimate flavor balance, season with salt and pepper. Having a well-rounded dressing is key to making your slaw sing.
Step 3: Combine Veggies and Dressing
Grab that large bowl! Toss the shredded red cabbage and carrots with the dressing. Start with half of the dressing, gently mix everything together, and see how it feels. You want the veggies coated but not drowning in the dressing.
After mixing, give it a taste. If you feel it needs more flavor, drizzle in more dressing until it’s just right. Mixing and tasting is like finding the right tune for your dance—each tweak makes it better!
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Finally, it’s time to chill! Place your combined slaw in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Allowing the slaw to chill is crucial as it melds all those delightful flavors together.
When it’s time to serve, give it a quick stir. Those vibrant colors and fresh crunches will bring everyone to the table. This last step ensures you get the maximum flavor explosion with every satisfying bite!
Tips for Success
- Always taste your dressing before mixing—it makes a world of difference!
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it enhances the flavor and texture.
- If you’re short on time, pre-shredded veggies are a great time-saver.
- Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Customize your slaw with herbs like cilantro or parsley for an added twist!
Equipment Needed
- Sharp knife or box grater for shredding veggies.
- Spiralizer for fun veggie shapes (optional, but a kitchen joy!).
- Large mixing bowl to combine everything together.
- Whisk or fork for mixing the dressing.
- Measuring cups for precise ingredients, although I often eyeball it!
Variations on Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
- For a spicy kick, add thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Incorporate diced apples or pears for a sweet and fruity twist.
- Swap out apple cider vinegar with rice vinegar for a milder flavor.
- Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and healthy fats.
- Mix in some raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and chewiness.
- For a nutty flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
- Replace the honey with agave syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or basil to brighten the flavor and complexity.
Serving Suggestions for Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a colorful protein-packed meal.
- Pair with flavorful tacos for a fresh crunch that complements spicy fillings.
- Enjoy with a light sandwich or wrap for a satisfying lunch.
- Dress up the slaw in a beautiful bowl for a stunning potluck dish.
- Accompany with sparkling water or a crisp white wine for a refreshing drink!
FAQs about Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
Can I make this Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making this slaw a day in advance enhances its flavor. Just keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Is this slaw vegan?
Yes, it is! Just use maple syrup instead of honey, and you’ve got a delicious vegan dish that’s full of crunch and goodness.
How long will the slaw last in the fridge?
This slaw can last about 3-5 days in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Can I add other vegetables to this slaw?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with shredded bell peppers, radishes, or even cucumbers. These additions can bring even more color and flavor!
What can I serve with this slaw?
This slaw pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or even as a filling for tacos. Its crunchiness adds zest to any meal!
Final Thoughts
Making Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw brings a joyful burst of color and flavor to my kitchen. I love how this refreshing dish effortlessly transforms any meal into a celebration. Whether it’s a lazy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this slaw never fails to impress. The crunchy veggies, tangy dressing, and customizable nature make it a reliable favorite in my home. Plus, knowing it’s packed with nutrients gives me an extra boost of happiness. I hope you find the same joy in making this delightful slaw as I do!
Print
Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and crunchy slaw made with red cabbage and carrots, perfect as a side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Red cabbage, shredded or spiralized
- 1 lb Carrots, shredded or spiralized
- 0.5 cup Apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Honey or maple syrup (maple syrup for vegan version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Shred or spiralize the cabbage and carrots. Optional: lightly salt the cabbage, let sit for 10 minutes, rinse, and pat dry.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and honey or maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the veggies with the dressing in a large bowl. Start with half the dressing and add more as needed.
- Chill the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey/maple syrup.
- Can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
