How do I ensure the dressing is smooth and creamy?

To achieve a smooth and creamy dressing, soak the raw cashews in hot water for at least 20 minutes before blending them with the other dressing ingredients in a food processor until completely smooth.

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

While you can prepare the dressing and shred the vegetables in advance, it's best to combine them just before serving to maintain the crispness of the cabbage and carrots. If mixed, enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to 1-2 days.

What can I use if I don't have a food processor for the dressing?

A high-speed blender can be used as an alternative to a food processor to blend the soaked cashews and other dressing ingredients into a smooth consistency.

Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the dressing?

Yes, the recipe uses maple syrup for sweetness and apple cider vinegar for tang. You can adjust the amounts of these ingredients to suit your personal taste preferences.

Are there any substitutions for the red cabbage?

While this recipe specifically calls for vibrant red cabbage, you could experiment with green cabbage or a mix of both, though the color and slight flavor profile would change.

7 years ago

Simple Red Cabbage Coleslaw
[Vegan]

NR By: Natalie Martin MS, RD and Lexie Staten MS, RD

Author Bio

Wholly Plants is co-authored by Registered Dietitians and sisters who are passionate about sharing the what,... Read More

Order with Instacart Download Our App

A vibrant bowl of Simple Red Cabbage Coleslaw, featuring shredded red cabbage and carrots coated in a creamy, light-colored cashew dressing, ready to serve.

For brands

Want to reach our audience?

Partner with One Green Planet →

Discover more recipes with these ingredients

Cabbage Recipes

Simple Red Cabbage Coleslaw [Vegan]

Dairy Free

Vegan

An easy oil-free, plant-based red cabbage slaw with a creamy dressing made with cashews and maple syrup. Great for potlucks!

Ingredients You Need for Simple Red Cabbage Coleslaw [Vegan]

Slaw

4 cups red cabbage, shredded
2 cups carrots, shredded

Dressing

1 cup cashews, raw
2/3 cup water
3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried celery flakes
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
salt to taste

Order with Instacart Download Our App

How to Prepare Simple Red Cabbage Coleslaw [Vegan]

Soak cashews in hot water for at least 20 minutes.
Drain water from cashews, reserving 2/3 cup of soaking water.
Combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a salad bowl.
Place all dressing ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
Pour dressing over cabbage and carrots and stir to coat thoroughly. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until serving.

Notes

A 16 ounce bag of pre-chopped coleslaw mix (found in the produce section), can be used in place of the shredded cabbage and carrots. Unfortunately, these are usually made with green cabbage, rather than red. Slaw will keep for up to 5 days in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.