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Fresh Tangy Vinegar Coleslaw No Mayo Recipe Easy Crisp Flavor Guide

fresh tangy vinegar coleslaw - featured image

A fresh, tangy vinegar-based coleslaw without mayo that delivers a crisp texture and lively flavor, perfect as a light side dish for grilled meats and picnics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Green cabbage, thinly sliced
  • Carrots, shredded or julienned
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon celery seed
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste (start with 1/4 teaspoon)
  • Optional: thinly sliced red onion
  • Optional: fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Remove outer leaves of cabbage, cut in half, then quarter, and slice thinly into fine shreds about 1/8 inch thick. Shred the carrots using a box grater or food processor. If using, slice red onion thinly.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and slightly thickened.
  3. Toss the slaw: Place shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. Pour dressing over the vegetables and toss gently but thoroughly to coat. Fold in onion or parsley if using.
  4. Rest and marinate: Let the slaw sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cabbage to soften slightly while keeping crunch. Alternatively, refrigerate up to 2 hours ahead and bring to room temperature before serving.
  5. Final taste check and serve: Toss again, adjust seasoning with more salt or honey if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overdress the slaw initially to avoid sogginess. Let it rest to mellow flavors and soften cabbage slightly. Optionally add a splash more vinegar before serving if flavor has mellowed. Massage cabbage gently before dressing if tougher texture is desired. Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; stir and freshen with vinegar or olive oil before serving again.

Nutrition

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