Bright, crunchy, and packed with flavor, Creamy Red Cabbage Slaw is a refreshing side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or weeknight dinners. This slaw combines thinly sliced red cabbage and carrots with a tangy, creamy dressing that balances sweetness and acidity perfectly.

Unlike traditional coleslaws that rely solely on mayonnaise, this recipe uses a blend of Greek yogurt and mayo to create a lighter, yet rich, texture. The result is a vibrant salad with a subtle tang, ideal for pairing with sandwiches, tacos, or grilled meats.

Ingredients

4 cups shredded red cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional: fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine shredded red cabbage, carrots, and sliced green onions.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Slaw and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss well until all vegetables are evenly coated.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving. Serve cold as a side dish with your favorite sandwiches, burgers, or grilled meats.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Red Cabbage Slaw

Thin Slices: Use a mandoline for evenly thin cabbage slices for better texture.
Adjust Sweetness: Increase honey slightly if you prefer a sweeter slaw.
Make Ahead: Can be prepared a few hours in advance; the flavor improves as it chills.
Crunch Factor: Add chopped apples or toasted nuts for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, or grilled chicken.
Add to tacos for a fresh, tangy crunch.
Perfect for summer picnics or potlucks.

Variations

Spicy Slaw: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño.
Vegan Version: Use vegan mayo and skip Greek yogurt.
Fruity Twist: Add diced apples or pineapple for sweetness.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Red cabbage slaw is a colorful twist on classic coleslaw, traditionally found in American and European cuisines. Red cabbage not only adds vibrant color but also brings antioxidants and fiber to the dish. Creamy slaws have long been a picnic and barbecue staple, providing a refreshing contrast to rich, grilled foods.

Nutritional Notes

This Creamy Red Cabbage Slaw is lower in calories compared to traditional coleslaw thanks to Greek yogurt. It provides fiber, vitamins C and K, and a balance of healthy fats from mayonnaise. A guilt-free side that’s both crunchy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright, colorful, and visually appealing
Crunchy, creamy, and tangy in every bite
Perfectly balances sweetness and acidity
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
Versatile enough for meals, picnics, or potlucks