Coleslaw is a crunchy and flavorful summer staple that can be enjoyed in many ways. Read on to see our favorite slaw recipes and to learn more about its key ingredient: cabbage!  

Our Top Coleslaw Picks 

On top of a hot dog, in a taco, or as a tasty side dish–there is no wrong way to eat coleslaw this summer! Here are a few of our favorite recipes that incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, and dressings.  

Apple Coleslaw 

apple coleslaw in a bowl on a wooden cutting board

This recipe is a fresh blend of cabbage, carrots, green bell peppers, and apples. It’s the perfect colorful and crisp side for your next gathering. Find the full recipe here.  

Snappy Coleslaw 

shredded cabbage in a white bowl

This coleslaw recipe is perfect for when you are in a bit of a time crunch. The ingredients are simple but still tasty and sure to please a crowd. For extra flavor, try making this dish the day before and refrigerating to let the flavors blend. Find the full recipehere.  

Colorful Coleslaw 

a serving of colorful coleslaw on a maroon plate

Packed with zucchini, cabbage, onions, and radishes, this recipe from the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension is the perfect way to get your full serving of vegetables at your next meal. Just toss the veggies with a simple 2-ingredient dressing and chill before serving. Find the full recipe here.  

What sets cabbage apart from other veggies 

Here at UGA SNAP-Ed, we think cabbage doesn’t get talked about enough. From the different ways that it can be prepared to the nutrients that it offers, this veggie is one that you want to keep on your menu. 

  • Much like broccoli, cabbage comes in green, white, and purple/red varieties. [1]  
  • Cabbage is an excellent source of Vitamin K and Vitamin C. [2] Vitamin K is important for bone and heart health, while Vitamin C keeps our immune system strong. 
  • Cabbage also contains fiber to aid in digestive health. [2] Other foods high in fiber are apples, quinoa, beans, and broccoli! 
  • Did you know that sauerkraut is fermented cabbage? Click here to learn how you can make this shelf-stable condiment at home!  
  • Cabbage can be prepared in a variety of ways like steaming, boiling, stewing, and stir-frying. The leaves of the plant are also a great, crisp component for a salad. 

heads of green cabbage in a wooden crate

Beyond Coleslaw 

There are so many ways to prepare and savor this versatile veggie. Check out a few other dishes that feature this vegetable. We think you’ll love them!  

  • Our Ramen Pasta Salad recipe is super easy to throw together and makes the perfect tangy side for your next meal. If you don’t have a pre-prepared coleslaw kit, you can make a simple coleslaw yourself by shredding carrots and white and purple cabbage. 
  • Cabbage is a great vegetable to stir-fry because it keeps its shape and crunch well. This Stir-Fry Cabbage recipe can make a light and simple side to any meal.  

sliced red cabbage on a wooden cutting board

We hope this blog has introduced you to the world of cabbage and maybe given you a coleslaw recipe to use in the coming months! 

 

Written by Darci Bell, RDN, LD | Reviewed by Leslie Davis, MS, RD, LD, CDCES, and the Nutrition Education Team    

Posted: July 19, 2021  

[1] Georgia Grown 

[2] USDA FoodData Central