This vegan sweetheart cabbage slaw is fresh, creamy, and tangy with a hint of sweetness. A perfect plant-based side dish for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep.
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A Lighter Take on Classic Slaw
Looking for a refreshing and flavourful side dish that’s quick to make and fully plant-based? This Vegan Sweetheart Cabbage Slaw is crunchy, creamy, and a little bit sweet—with a zippy mustard dressing that ties everything together. Whether you're topping burgers, filling wraps, or serving alongside grilled mains, this slaw adds colour and texture to any plate.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cabbage Slaw
Naturally dairy-free & egg-free
Crunchy, fresh, and slightly tangy
Ready in under 15 minutes
Perfect for picnics, BBQs or meal prep
Customisable with herbs, seeds or different veg
Ingredients
Benefits of Using Sweetheart Cabbage in Slaws:
Tender texture – It's softer and more delicate than traditional white cabbage, making for a slaw that's less chewy and more pleasant raw.
Sweet flavour – As the name suggests, it has a mild, naturally sweet taste that balances tangy dressings beautifully.
Quick to prepare – Its leaves are thinner and easier to slice finely, which saves time and effort.
Great raw or lightly dressed – It holds up well in vinegar or mayo-based dressings without getting soggy too fast.
Tips for a Great Sweetheart Cabbage Slaw:
Slice it finely for the best texture.
Pair it with ingredients like: Carrot, red onion, and apple for crunch and colour.
A light dressing of vegan mayo, mustard, and lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill to brighten it up.
How to Make Vegan Sweetheart Cabbage Slaw
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely sliced cabbage, thinly sliced red onion, and carrot and apple chopped into matchsticks.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, maple syrup (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Combine
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until well coated.
Step 4: Adjust Flavour
Taste and tweak the seasoning as needed—add more vinegar for tang, syrup for sweetness, or a pinch more salt.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Allow the slaw to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavours blend. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Add a handful of sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
- Swap mayo with unsweetened vegan yoghurt for a lighter slaw like I've done for this one.
- Use red cabbage or savoy if sweetheart cabbage isn't available.
- For extra freshness, toss in a splash of orange or lime juice.
How to Serve
This vegan sweetheart cabbage slaw pairs wonderfully with:
- Veggie burgers or hotdogs
- Tofu skewers
- Jackfruit gyros or wraps
- Grain bowls
- As a fresh topping on tacos
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The slaw may get softer over time but will still be flavourful.
Recipe
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