Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Featured in: Happy Bites

This crisp and vibrant slaw combines finely shredded green cabbage with julienned tart Granny Smith apples and grated carrots for refreshing crunch. A light dressing of apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey creates the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this versatile side dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, works as a sandwich topping, or stands alone at picnics and barbecues.

Updated on Tue, 27 Jan 2026 03:18:51 GMT
Vibrant green cabbage and apple slaw, crisp and tangy, served fresh. Save
Vibrant green cabbage and apple slaw, crisp and tangy, served fresh. | munchhug.com

This Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw is the ultimate refreshing side dish for any occasion. Combining the crunch of fresh shredded cabbage with the tart sweetness of Granny Smith apples, it offers a light yet satisfying bite that pairs perfectly with picnics, barbecues, or your favorite sandwiches.

Vibrant green cabbage and apple slaw, crisp and tangy, served fresh. Save
Vibrant green cabbage and apple slaw, crisp and tangy, served fresh. | munchhug.com

The secret to this vibrant slaw lies in the balance of textures and flavors. By julienning the apples and finely shredding the cabbage, you ensure that every forkful is packed with a satisfying crunch and a hint of zingy dressing.

Ingredients

  • 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)
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Instructions

Step 1
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, apple, carrot, and green onions.
Step 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
Step 3
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
Step 4
Stir in parsley and poppy seeds, if using.
Step 5
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6
Serve immediately for extra crunch, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best texture, use a sharp chef's knife or a mandoline for the cabbage. When preparing the dressing, whisking it in a separate small bowl ensures the mayonnaise and mustard are fully emulsified before they hit the vegetables.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version of this slaw, simply swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey. You can also mix green cabbage with red cabbage for a more colorful presentation, or add sunflower seeds for extra crunch.

Serviervorschläge

This slaw is a fantastic companion for grilled meats or can be used as a crunchy, tangy topping for pulled pork sandwiches. It is also a hearty enough side dish to stand alone at a summer picnic.

Delicious green cabbage and apple slaw, perfect picnic side dish with crunch. Save
Delicious green cabbage and apple slaw, perfect picnic side dish with crunch. | munchhug.com

Whether you're looking for a fresh lunch addition or a crowd-pleasing side for your next barbecue, this Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw is a simple, healthy, and delicious choice that never disappoints.

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Recipe Guide

How long does this slaw stay fresh?

The slaw stays fresh for 2-3 days when refrigerated in an airtight container. For best texture and crunch, serve within 24 hours.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the vegetables and dressing separately up to 24 hours ahead. Toss together 30 minutes before serving to maintain optimal crunch.

What apple varieties work best?

Tart, crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady work best as they hold their texture and provide complementary acidity to the dressing.

How do I make it vegan?

Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise and substitute maple syrup or agave for honey to create a fully plant-based version.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, consider adding shredded Brussels sprouts, fennel, or bell peppers. Red cabbage creates beautiful color contrast while radishes add extra peppery bite.

Green Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Crisp shredded cabbage meets tart apples in a light tangy dressing, ideal for picnics, barbecues, or sandwiches.

Prep duration
15 min
0
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Samantha Reed


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition preferences Meat-free, No gluten

Components

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

Method

Phase 01

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

Phase 02

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

Phase 03

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

Phase 04

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

Phase 05

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Phase 06

Chill and Serve: Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Tools needed

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

Allergy alerts

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if concerned.
  • Contains eggs from mayonnaise and mustard
  • Mayonnaise may contain soy; verify labels for soy sensitivity
  • Use plant-based mayonnaise for egg-free or vegan dietary requirements

Dietary info (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 150
  • Lipids: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Proteins: 2 g