Fabulous Cole Slaw (No Mayo) (Paleo Compliant)

My grandmother, bless her heart, always made the most incredible coleslaw. It was creamy, tangy, and sweet – the perfect accompaniment to her legendary barbecue ribs. As I’ve embraced a paleo lifestyle, I’ve had to rethink some of my family favorites. This recipe is my homage to Grandma’s slaw, but without the mayo and refined sugar. It’s vibrant, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, proving that healthy can be absolutely delicious.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes + chilling time
• Servings: 12
• Dietary Type: Paleo, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 14 ounces shredded coleslaw mix (store bought bag is fine)
• 10 ounces shredded broccoli slaw mix (store bought bag is fine)
• 10 ounces julianne sliced carrots (store bought bag is fine)
• 1 cup light olive oil
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup raisins or 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (no sugar added)
• 1/4 cup honey (raw)
• 1 large red onion, sliced into rings
• 2 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Equipment Needed

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the light olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and raw honey until emulsified. This is a crucial step to ensure the dressing doesn’t separate. A good emulsion will make the flavors meld beautifully.
2. Stir in the salt, pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Be sure to distribute the spices evenly throughout the dressing.
3. Add the shredded coleslaw mix, shredded broccoli slaw mix, julianne sliced carrots, raisins (or dried cranberries), and red onion rings to the bowl.
4. Toss all ingredients together thoroughly to ensure everything is well coated with the dressing. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there to gently mix it all up.
5. Chill the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly.
6. Toss again just before serving to redistribute the dressing that may have settled at the bottom of the bowl.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a Tangier Slaw: Increase the amount of apple cider vinegar by a tablespoon or two.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little more heat, add an extra teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet slaw, reduce the amount of honey to 2 tablespoons.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This coleslaw is best when made a few hours in advance, allowing the flavors to fully develop. You can even prepare it the day before. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
• Onion Taming: If raw red onions are too strong for your taste, soak them in ice water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the slaw. This will mellow out their flavor.
• Herb Power: Adding a handful of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro can brighten up the slaw and add a fresh, herbaceous note.
• Nutty Crunch: For added texture, consider adding a handful of toasted slivered almonds or chopped pecans just before serving.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Fabulous Cole Slaw is the perfect side dish for any barbecue, picnic, or potluck. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, fish, or even veggie burgers. To serve, simply transfer the coleslaw to a serving bowl and garnish with a few extra red onion rings and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for visual appeal.

Leftover coleslaw should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. While the vegetables may soften slightly over time, the flavor will actually improve as the dressing continues to meld with the ingredients. Note that this slaw is best enjoyed cold and is not suitable for freezing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	18g	28%
Saturated Fat	2.5g	12%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	279mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	22g	7%
Dietary Fiber	2.5g	10%
Sugars	16g	32%
Protein	1.5g	3%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Different Dried Fruit: Experiment with other dried fruits like chopped dates, apricots, or even goji berries.
• Seed Power: Add a tablespoon or two of chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds for extra nutrients and a slightly different texture.
• Vinegar Variety: While apple cider vinegar is my go-to, you can also use white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or even a splash of lemon juice for a different tangy twist.
• Sweetener Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of honey, you can use maple syrup or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia, but adjust the amount to your taste preference.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other shredded vegetables such as radishes, kohlrabi, or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular mayonnaise in this recipe?
A: While you could, this recipe is designed to be mayo-free. The oil and vinegar dressing provides a lighter, tangier flavor profile.

Q: How long will this coleslaw last in the refrigerator?
A: It will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container. The vegetables may soften slightly over time, but the flavor improves.

Q: Can I freeze this coleslaw?
A: Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables will become mushy and the dressing may separate.

Q: I don’t have Dijon mustard. Can I use another type?
A: Yes, you can use yellow mustard, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Try to use a mustard without added sugar to keep it paleo-friendly.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage instead of a coleslaw mix?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to use the same amount (by weight) as the coleslaw mix called for in the recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Fabulous Cole Slaw is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create a coleslaw that perfectly suits your taste. And be sure to share your creations and feedback with me! This slaw is a fantastic partner to grilled chicken or salmon, making it a complete and flavorful meal. Enjoy!