Red Cabbage Slaw

Are you ready to elevate your side dish game with a bright and refreshing Red Cabbage Slaw that adds crunch and flavor to any meal? Vibrant and colorful, this slaw is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful burst of flavors and textures. With its tangy dressing and the earthy sweetness of carrots, it makes for a perfect accompaniment to barbecues, tacos, or even just enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy snack. Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that you’ll want to make over and over again.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Red cabbage is often overlooked in the vegetable world, but it is packed with nutrients and offers a fantastic crunch that’s hard to resist. This slaw is not only visually stunning with its striking purple hue, but it’s also incredibly versatile. The combination of the zesty rice vinegar, a hint of sweetness from honey, and the aromatic kick from cilantro creates a harmonious balance that enhances any meal. Plus, it can be made in under 15 minutes, making it the ideal choice for a quick side dish.

Ingredients

• ½ head red cabbage, thinly sliced
• ½ cup cilantro, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and shredded
• ⅓ cup rice vinegar
• ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

How To Make Red Cabbage Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing your red cabbage thoroughly. Remove the outer leaves if they are wilted or damaged. Cut the cabbage in half and then slice it thinly into fine ribbons. Place the sliced cabbage into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Shred the Carrots

Peel the carrots and use a grater or food processor to shred them. Add the shredded carrots to the bowl with the cabbage.

Step 3: Chop the Cilantro

Rinse the cilantro to remove any dirt or grit. Remove the leaves from the stems and chop them finely. Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl with the cabbage and carrots.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, granulated sugar, honey, salt, and pepper until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the cabbage, carrots, and cilantro mixture. Toss everything together until all the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, let the slaw sit for at least 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing and enhances the overall taste. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Expert Tips

• Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for thinly slicing the cabbage for a better texture.
• For a bit more crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or peanuts.
• Adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your liking by adding more or less honey or sugar.
• Letting the slaw sit for a little while before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Variations and Customizations

• Spice it up by adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or green onions for additional flavor and color.
• For a creamier version, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing.
• Experiment with different herbs, such as mint or parsley, for a unique taste.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and crunch. As the slaw sits, it may release some liquid from the vegetables, which is completely normal. Just give it a good toss before serving again.

FAQ

Can I use green cabbage instead of red cabbage?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute green cabbage for red cabbage. However, be mindful that the flavor and color of the slaw will be different. Red cabbage is crunchier and has a slightly earthier taste.

Is it necessary to let the slaw sit before serving?

While it is not strictly necessary, letting the slaw sit for 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste, making it more delicious.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the slaw ahead of time. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to add the dressing just before serving if you plan to keep it for more than a few hours.

What can I serve with Red Cabbage Slaw?

Red Cabbage Slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood tacos, burgers, or as a side for any BBQ spread. It also works great as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.

Conclusion

This Red Cabbage Slaw is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of color, flavor, and texture that will brighten any meal. With its ease of preparation and limitless customization options, you can enjoy it in countless ways. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own twist on it, this slaw is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a delicious slaw that everyone will love!