Healthy coleslaw recipes

Whether you’ve loved this fresh side dish for years or you’re a relative newbie to it, you might be after ways to make your coleslaw a little bit more nutritious. Before we delve into healthy coleslaw recipes, let’s take a look at exactly what it is and why it makes such a great addition to any meal.

First of all, what is coleslaw and is it good for you?

Coleslaw is a popular side dish which originally comes from Holland yet is now enjoyed in homes across the world. A lot of countries have their own variations, but the basic version of coleslaw is made up of two main things:

1. Raw cabbage that’s been finely shredded
2. Some form of salad dressing, usually a vinaigrette or mayonnaise

All in all, coleslaw is a pretty healthy dish as it’s mostly made up of cabbage, which is low in calories yet high in fibre and vitamins C and K – three key things our bodies need to function day-to-day. It also contains lots of toxin-busting antioxidants, plus cabbage is able to be eaten raw, making it super simple to prepare. The unhealthiest part of coleslaw is typically the mayonnaise as it contains both oil and eggs which are high in fat. You could switch it for a vinaigrette or consider a low fat vegan alternative instead.

How can I make coleslaw healthier?

If you’re a vegan or you’d rather not make a coleslaw laden with calories, there are a few tips you can follow to make it healthier:

1. Switch mayonnaise for vegan mayonnaise or yoghurt

Those not keen on eating regular mayonnaise for health or diet reasons could consider switching to a vegan alternative like avocado mayonnaise. Swapping some of the mayo for a few spoons of unsweetened plain yoghurt will also give you the same creamy texture and taste.

2. Add in grated carrot

To make your coleslaw contain double the number of nutritious veggies, consider grating in some fresh carrot. This will not only add to the taste, but also boost its amounts of amazing vitamins and antioxidants (including beta-carotene).

3. Throw in some fruit, nuts or seeds

Depending on your taste buds, you may want to throw in a handful of dried fruits, nuts and seeds. These add extra flavour and texture to your coleslaw. Walnuts, pumpkin seeds and raisins are particularly great options.

The ultimate healthy coleslaw recipe

Keen to make your own batch of ‘slaw at home? Here’s a simple and healthy coleslaw recipe which takes just 15 minutes to prepare: Serves 6 Ingredients:

• Half a white cabbage
• 6 tablespoons of plain yoghurt (normal or vegan)
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise (normal or vegan)
• 2 carrots
• A small onion
• Dijon mustard
• Seasonings

Method:

1. Combine the yoghurt and mayonnaise in a bowl. Add mustard and any other seasonings to taste.
2. Grate, finely shred or chop your cabbage, carrot and onion and add to the bowl.
3. Mix well and ideally leave in the fridge overnight so the flavours properly set in.

Once you’ve made your coleslaw, it should keep for at least a few days if it’s well covered and refrigerated. Mix together your next bowl of delicious coleslaw using healthy ingredients from our full cooking range. After more vegetarian recipes which will have your mouth watering? Check out The Health Hub. Last updated: 25 May 2020 Sources https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-cabbage https://www.healthyseasonalrecipes.com/skinny-classic-coleslaw/ https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/healthy-coleslaw