Name: The Best Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl for Fresh, Crunchy Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 large tart apple (e.g., Granny Smith); 1 medium grated carrot; 2 stalks green onions (sliced); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup mayonnaise (dairy-free if desired); 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan); 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; to taste salt; to taste pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped); 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the sun shines through my kitchen window, I can’t help but smile at the vibrant colors dancing on my cutting board. It’s amazing how a simple combination of fresh, green cabbage and tart apples can awaken my senses, transforming an ordinary day into something special. The moment I paired these ingredients with a tangy honey-mustard dressing, I discovered a recipe that brings not just joy, but also versatility to my table.

This Crunchy Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw Bowl is exactly what you need for a refreshing side dish that’s effortlessly chic yet satisfying. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a colorful slaw that complements grilled meats, elevates picnic spreads, and even shines as a glorious, stand-alone lunch. Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, catering to all dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or fun.

Join me in whipping up this delightful dish that celebrates the brilliance of wholesome ingredients—perfect for a meal prep hero or anyone looking to break free from the monotony of fast food. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl

Vibrant Colors: This slaw features a stunning array of green and red hues that make your plate pop.
Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a fresh side dish ready to impress.
Versatile Use: Pair it with grilled chicken, add it to a picnic alongside Fried Cabbage Shrimp, or enjoy it solo for a light lunch.
Diet-Friendly: Gluten-free and dairy-free options mean everyone can dig in without worry.
Flavorful Dressing: The tangy honey-mustard dressing balances perfectly with the sweetness of apples, making every bite enjoyable.
Experience the crunch and freshness that this Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl brings to any meal!

Cabbage Apple Slaw Ingredients

• A colorful array of ingredients awaits!

For the Slaw

Green Cabbage – provides a crisp texture that’s essential for a refreshing slaw.
Tart Apple (e.g., Granny Smith) – adds a tangy sweetness; Honeycrisp is a delightful alternative if you crave more sweetness.
Carrot – delivers a pop of color and natural sweetness; consider substituting with radish for a peppery kick.
Green Onions – gives a mild onion flavor; optional for a more subtle taste.

For the Dressing

Apple Cider Vinegar – infuses acidity, complementing the sweetness of the cabbage and apple.
Mayonnaise – offers creaminess, and using dairy-free mayo keeps it accessible for all diets.
Dijon Mustard – adds a tangy kick; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
Honey – sweetens the dressing beautifully; swap for maple syrup for a vegan version.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – enriches the dressing with healthy fats for a velvety texture.
Salt and Pepper – enhances depth of flavor; adjust based on your taste buds!

Optional Garnishes

Fresh Parsley – adds a touch of brightness and freshness.
Poppy Seeds – give a delightful crunch and a hint of visual flair.

There you have it—a simple list brimming with flavorful ingredients to create the ultimate Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl!

How to Make Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl

Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine finely shredded green cabbage, julienned tart apple, grated carrot, and sliced green onions for that vibrant crunch and freshness.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-blended. This dressing makes everything pop!
Combine: Pour the tangy dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss gently until every piece is evenly coated, ensuring no delicious flavor is missed.
Adjust Seasoning: Take a moment to taste your slaw and adjust with more salt and pepper as needed, creating the perfect balance of flavors just for you.
Serve: Serve immediately for that fresh crunch, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors and let them meld together beautifully.
Optional Garnish: Before serving, add chopped fresh parsley and sprinkle some poppy seeds for a lovely touch and extra crunch.

Optional: Serve it chilled for a refreshing bite!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl

Fridge: Store the slaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves its freshness, but be aware that the cabbage may soften slightly over time.
Dressing: Keep any leftover dressing in a covered jar in the fridge for up to a week. This allows you to whip up another Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl quickly!
Freezer: While not recommended for freezing, if necessary, you can freeze the slaw without dressing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you’ve stored it in the fridge after combining with the dressing, consume cold or let sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying its crunchy texture again.

Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this dish to suit your taste!

Red Cabbage: Swap in red cabbage for a colorful twist that adds vibrant hues and earthier flavors.
Radish Kick: Substitute carrots with sliced or shredded radishes for an exciting peppery crunch that wakes up your taste buds.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for an extra layer of crunch and heartiness that makes every bite delightful!
Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple choices like Gala or Fuji to play around with sweetness levels and textures in your slaw.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based mayonnaise instead of regular to ensure your dressing remains creamy while keeping it entirely vegan-friendly.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for an aromatic touch that profoundly enriches the overall flavor profile.
Spicy Touch: For those who love a little heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing for an elevated, zesty kick.
Citrus Burst: Squeeze in some fresh lemon or lime juice for a refreshing citrus zing that enhances the slaw with bright, tangy notes.

What to Serve with Crunchy Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw?

This slaw is the perfect sidekick to enhance your meals and brighten your dinner table.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky, charred flavors of grilled chicken perfectly complement the brightness of the slaw, making a delightful pairing.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The sweet tang of pulled pork meets its match in the crisp, refreshing slaw, creating a flavorful contrast.
Fish Tacos: Add a crunchy layer to your fish tacos; the slaw’s tangy dressing perfectly balances the richness of the fish.
Quinoa Bowl: Elevate your lunch game by adding this slaw to a quinoa bowl; its crunchiness brings texture to the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables to enjoy a mix of warm, earthy flavors with the slaw’s bright, raw freshness.
Toasted Baguette with Hummus: Spread some hummus on toasted baguette slices and top with slaw for a fun appetizer that offers a satisfying crunch.
Sangria: A glass of chilled sangria pairs beautifully with the vibrant salad, enhancing its fruity notes for a refreshing meal experience.
Fruit Salad: Balance the savory components with a light fruit salad—bites of sweetness harmonize with the slaw’s tartness for a delightful dessert.

Expert Tips for Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl

Prep Ahead: Prepare vegetables and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Combine 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
Keep Crunch: Serve immediately for the best crunch. If storing, place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Flavor Adjustments: Taste your dressing and slaw before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or honey based on your preference for the perfect Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl.
Ingredient Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients! Use red cabbage for a pop of color, or swap mayonnaise with a vegan option for dietary needs.
Meal Prep Magic: Portion your slaw into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. It holds up well for up to three days in the fridge!

Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cabbage for my slaw?
Absolutely! For the best crunch, look for green cabbage with a firm, tight head, free of dark spots or blemishes. It’s best to use finely shredded cabbage, as it will provide a delightful texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover slaw?
Store your Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the cabbage may soften slightly over time, but it will still be delicious! To keep the crunch intact, store the dressing separately if possible and mix just before serving.

Can I freeze Cabbage Apple Slaw?
While it’s not ideal to freeze this slaw, you can freeze it without dressing for up to 2 months. To do this, pack it into an airtight container or a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slaw in the fridge overnight, and then add your dressing just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What if my dressing is too thick?
Very! If your dressing turns out thicker than you desire, simply whisk in a little bit of water, lemon juice, or additional apple cider vinegar, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency. Taste as you go to ensure the flavor remains balanced and delicious!

Is this slaw suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Cabbage Apple Slaw Bowl is very versatile. You can easily make it gluten-free by ensuring all condiments used are free of gluten ingredients. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, simply use plant-based mayonnaise in the dressing. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens!