Name: Zesty Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw for Vibrant Meals
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 4 cups purple cabbage (thinly sliced); 2 large carrots (shredded); 0.5 medium jalapeño (minced, seeds removed for milder heat); 0.25 medium red onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 0.5 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version); 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; to taste salt; to taste pepper

As I was prepping dinner last week, I stumbled upon a colorful head of purple cabbage at the market, eagerly beckoning me for a recipe makeover. That’s how my Creamy Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw came to life—a delightful, crunchy medley that not only pleases the eyes but also the palate. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant, healthy side dish that’s perfect for picnics and summer cookouts. With a creamy, tangy dressing that keeps it light yet satisfying, this slaw is a refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw. Plus, it’s gluten-free and a breeze to make, even on your busiest days. Are you ready to turn simple ingredients into a stunning side that will have everyone asking for seconds?

Why is this slaw a must-try?

Vibrant Color: With its striking purple cabbage, this slaw is a feast for the eyes, instantly brightening up any table.
Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 20 minutes, perfect for those hectic meal prep days!
Customizable Options: Want a kick? Add jalapeños! Prefer something sweeter? Diced apples or even pineapple work wonders.
Healthy Choice: This slaw is low in calories yet bursting with vitamins, making it a guilt-free addition to your meals. It’s also gluten-free, keeping it accessible for all. Pair it with grilled meats or even tacos for a delightful dining experience. You’ll find serving ideas in our Sugar Glazed Carrots post for extra inspiration!

Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw Ingredients

For the Slaw

Purple Cabbage – Provides crunch and a pop of color; substitute with green cabbage for a milder flavor.
Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and texture; can be replaced with pre-shredded carrots to save time.
Jalapeño – Adds a spicy kick; use ½ for mild heat or omit for a milder flavor.
Red Onion – Introduces sharpness; substitute with yellow or white onion for a different flavor profile.
Garlic – Enhances flavor depth; fresh minced garlic is preferred, but dried garlic can be used in a pinch.
Fresh Cilantro – Offers herbaceous freshness; swap with parsley for a different herbal note.

For the Dressing

Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess; can be substituted with yellow mustard if preferred.
Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or avocado for a dairy-free option.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity; substitute white wine or balsamic vinegar if needed.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

Enjoy crafting your delicious Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with these fresh and vibrant ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw

Step 1: Slice the Cabbage
Begin by using a mandolin or a sharp knife to thinly slice about 4 cups of purple cabbage. Aim for pieces that are roughly 1/8 inch thick for the best texture. As you slice, take a moment to admire the vibrant color; it should catch the light beautifully. Transfer the sliced cabbage into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Shred the Carrots
Next, take 2 large carrots and shred them using a box grater. Focus on producing fine shreds that will mingle well with the cabbage, adding a pop of sweetness and color. If time is of the essence, pre-shredded carrots can be a handy shortcut. Add the shredded carrots to the purple cabbage in the bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Aromatics
Now it’s time to mince the jalapeño, red onion, garlic, and fresh cilantro. Start with about 1/2 of a jalapeño, ensuring to remove the seeds for a milder heat if desired. Chop 1/4 of a red onion, 2 cloves of garlic, and about 1/4 cup of cilantro. Each ingredient should be finely minced for a harmonious flavor and texture. Stir these aromatic additions into the cabbage and carrot mixture.

Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing
In a separate mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adjusting the flavors with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy dressing will bring your Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw to life, enhancing the crunchiness of the vegetables.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the creamy dressing over the slaw mixture in the large bowl. Gently fold the vegetables and dressing together using tongs or a spatula, ensuring every piece is well-coated. You should see a beautiful blend of colors, with the purple cabbage standing out against the orange carrots.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the slaw for at least 2 hours. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more vibrant and seasoned taste. If you’re in a hurry, you can serve immediately, but the longer it sits, the tastier it becomes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, give the slaw a final toss and taste for seasoning before serving. Enjoy this delicious and colorful Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw as a refreshing side dish at your next summer cookout or alongside grilled meats. Its crisp texture and zesty flavor are sure to please!

Storage Tips for Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw

Room Temperature: Enjoy your slaw immediately for the best flavor; however, keep it at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure freshness.

Fridge: Store leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. If using homemade mayonnaise, consume within 4 days.

Freezer: Avoid freezing your Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw, as the creamy dressing may separate and affect its texture upon thawing.

Reheating: This slaw is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Simply give it a gentle toss before serving to bring back its delightful crunch!

Expert Tips for Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw

Resting Time Matters: Allowing the slaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours enhances flavor. The longer it sits (up to 1 day), the tastier it becomes.
Be Mindful of Freshness: If you use homemade mayonnaise, be sure to consume within 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Avoid Freezing: Never freeze this slaw, as the creamy mayonnaise may separate upon thawing, leading to an unappetizing texture.
Get Creative with Variations: Feeling adventurous? Try adding diced apples for sweetness or swap in pickled jalapeños for tangy flavor in your Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw.
Taste Test Before Serving: Always give your slaw a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. A pinch of salt or pepper can elevate the flavors even more!

What to Serve with Creamy Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw

This crunchy, colorful slaw is a delightful way to elevate any meal, providing a refreshing counterpart to savory dishes.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds a hearty protein that perfectly complements the slaw’s crunch and tang, making for an ideal summer meal.
Fish Tacos: The slaw’s vibrant flavors and textures bring a fresh twist to fish tacos, balancing the richness of the fish beautifully.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The sweet and tangy profile of the slaw cuts through the savory richness of pulled pork, creating a divine flavor harmony.
Quinoa Salad: Pairing the slaw with a protein-packed quinoa salad adds a satisfying crunch and further nutritional benefits to your meal.
Garlic Bread: The crusty texture and buttery flavor of garlic bread make a comforting contrast to the slaw’s crispness, adding warmth to your table.
White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing drink, like a white wine spritzer, harmonizes well with the slaw’s vibrant flavors, making for a light and delightful pairing.
Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, a fudgy chocolate brownie adds a rich sweetness that balances the slaw’s tangy, creamy profile perfectly.

Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw Variations

Let your creativity shine and make this slaw truly your own with these fun variations!

Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with avocado for a creamy, rich flavor without dairy. It’s a delightful twist that offers a buttery texture.
Added Sweetness: Mix in diced apples or serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness. The crispy apples complement the crunchy slaw beautifully!
Spicy Kick: Layer on the heat by adding extra jalapeños or switch to a spicier pepper like serrano. This will take your slaw to another level of flavor!
Nutty Crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for an extra crunchy bite. The nuttiness will add depth, balancing out the slaw’s tanginess.
Herb Swap: Instead of cilantro, try fresh dill or mint for an aromatic twist. Each herb provides a unique flavor profile, keeping things exciting!
Fruity Flair: For a tropical touch, fold in diced pineapple or juicy orange segments. The fruitiness perfectly contrasts the tangy dressing.
Vegan-Friendly: Replace mayonnaise with plant-based yogurt or creamy tahini for a vegan-friendly option. It still holds creamy texture while being completely plant-based.
Flavor Boost: Drizzle your slaw with a splash of sesame oil for an umami-rich flavor. It’s an unexpected yet delightful addition that will surprise your guests.

Feel free to explore these variations, and remember to check out our delicious Cranberry Brie Thyme to inspire your next meal pairing!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can slice and shred the cabbage and carrots up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them crisp. Additionally, prepare the jalapeño, red onion, garlic, and cilantro ahead of time, sealing them separately to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped vegetables with the dressing (made fresh but can be mixed a few hours in advance) and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, delicious slaw ready with minimal effort!

Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe purple cabbage?
When selecting purple cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size, with crisp, tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that have dark spots or bruising as these indicate spoilage. The deeper the color, the more vitamins it often contains, making it a healthy choice!

How should I store leftover slaw?
Store your Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. If you used homemade mayonnaise in the dressing, I recommend consuming it within 4 days for the best flavor and safety.

Can I freeze the slaw?
I advise against freezing your slaw, as the creamy dressing may separate upon thawing, leading to an unappetizing texture. If you want to preserve it, focus on enjoying the slaw fresh and chilled for the best experience!

What should I do if my slaw is too salty?
If you’ve accidentally over-seasoned your slaw, you can balance the saltiness by adding more shredded cabbage and carrots. This helps absorb some of the excess salt without compromising the overall flavor. Alternatively, a touch of sugar or honey can help cut through the saltiness and add a hint of sweetness.

Can I make this slaw in advance?
Absolutely! Preparing your Purple Cabbage and Carrot Slaw a day in advance is a great idea. Just remember to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, and it will be ready to serve when you need it. Aim for at least 2 hours of chilling time before serving for optimal taste.