Green Cabbage Apple Slaw

Featured in: Everyday Meal Ideas

This crisp and vibrant slaw combines finely shredded green cabbage with tart Granny Smith apples and sweet grated carrots. The light dressing features apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey for a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this versatile side pairs beautifully with grilled meats, barbecue, or works as a topping for sandwiches. Best served fresh for maximum crunch, though refrigerating for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together.

Updated on Wed, 28 Jan 2026 02:04:21 GMT
Crisp Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw glistening with tangy dressing, perfect picnic side. Pin This
Crisp Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw glistening with tangy dressing, perfect picnic side. | petitagdal.com

This Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw is a crisp, refreshing dish that brings together the crunchy texture of finely shredded cabbage with the tart sweetness of apples. Tossed in a light and tangy dressing, it offers a vibrant burst of flavor that is perfect for any occasion.

Crisp Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw glistening with tangy dressing, perfect picnic side. Pin This
Crisp Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw glistening with tangy dressing, perfect picnic side. | petitagdal.com

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Whether you are planning a summer picnic or looking for a bright side dish to lighten up a hearty meal, this slaw is an excellent choice. The combination of apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey creates a dressing that is both zesty and slightly sweet, making the fresh produce truly shine.

Ingredients

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  • 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 large tart apple (such as Granny Smith), julienned or shredded
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, julienned apple, grated carrot, and thinly sliced green onions.
2. Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully emulsified.
3. Combine and Toss
Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.
4. Add Final Touches
If you are using them, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and poppy seeds for extra texture and herbal notes.
5. Adjust Seasoning
Taste the slaw and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
6. Serve or Chill
Serve the slaw immediately for maximum crunch, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, use a mandoline or a sharp chef's knife to get the cabbage as thin as possible. Utilizing a grater for the carrots and julienning the apple ensures that every bite has a consistent texture. Letting the slaw rest in the refrigerator for half an hour can significantly enhance the flavor profile.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly customizable. For a vegan version, simply use plant-based mayonnaise and swap the honey for maple syrup. You can also use red cabbage instead of green—or a mix of both—to add more color. For an extra layer of texture, try adding sunflower seeds or toasted nuts.

Serviervorschläge

This slaw is fantastic when served alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak. It also makes a wonderful tangy topping for pulled pork sandwiches, providing a necessary acidic crunch to balance out rich, slow-cooked flavors.

Bright and fresh Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw piled high, ready for barbecue. Pin This
Bright and fresh Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw piled high, ready for barbecue. | petitagdal.com

Enjoy this simple and vibrant Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw at your next gathering. Its balance of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleasing addition to any table.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this slaw stay fresh?

The slaw stays crisp for up to 2 days when refrigerated in an airtight container. For best texture, add the dressing just before serving.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply substitute vegan mayonnaise and replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The dressing will still emulsify beautifully.

What apple variety works best?

Tart, crisp apples like Granny Smith hold their texture well. Honeycrisp or Pink Lady are excellent alternatives that offer a nice balance of sweet and tart.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can shred the vegetables and make the dressing up to a day ahead. Keep them separate and toss together shortly before serving to maintain the crunch.

What other vegetables can I add?

Red cabbage adds vibrant color, while bell peppers, fennel, or Brussels sprouts bring extra crunch and flavor. Try mixing varieties for visual appeal.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the julienned apples with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar immediately after cutting. The acidic coating prevents oxidation and keeps them bright.

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Green Cabbage Apple Slaw

Crisp shredded cabbage and tart apples in a light, tangy honey-mustard dressing. Ready in 15 minutes.

Prep Time
15 min
0
Overall Time
15 min
Recipe by Lauren Silva


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Serves 4 Portions

Diet Info Vegetarian-Friendly, No Gluten

What You Need

Vegetables & Fruit

01 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
02 1 large tart apple such as Granny Smith, julienned or shredded
03 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
04 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Dressing

01 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
02 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
03 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
04 1 tablespoon honey
05 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
06 Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

01 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
02 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Directions

Step 01

Combine Fresh Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, apple, carrot, and green onions.

Step 02

Prepare Emulsified Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.

Step 03

Coat with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly.

Step 04

Add Optional Ingredients: Stir in parsley and poppy seeds, if using.

Step 05

Season to Preference: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 06

Chill and Serve: Serve immediately for extra crunch, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

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Tools Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small whisk or fork
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Grater or mandoline

Allergy Notes

Double-check every ingredient for allergies. If unsure, ask a healthcare expert.
  • Contains eggs from mayonnaise
  • Contains mustard
  • Mayonnaise may contain soy; verify labels if sensitive

Nutrition Info (per portion)

For informational purposes only; not a substitute for advice from your doctor.
  • Calorie Count: 150
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Proteins: 2 g

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