Savoy Cabbage Slaw: A Twist on a Classic
My grandmother, bless her heart, was a creature of habit. Every summer barbecue, without fail, featured her famous coleslaw. It was a sweet, creamy affair that everyone devoured. While I loved it, I always felt it could use a little oomph. That’s why, years ago, I started experimenting with different variations, eventually landing on this Savoy Cabbage Slaw. The mild, slightly sweet flavor of Savoy cabbage, combined with the bright pesto and creamy mayonnaise, creates a slaw that is both familiar and unexpectedly delicious. It’s become a staple at my own gatherings, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup prepared pesto sauce
- 1 small head savoy cabbage
Equipment Needed
- Medium bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine the ½ cup of mayonnaise and ¼ cup of prepared pesto sauce. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored. This is your dressing.
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Prepare the Savoy cabbage. Begin by quartering the cabbage. Then, remove the core from each quarter.
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Using a sharp knife, cut the cabbage wedges into thin shreds. Aim for shreds that are approximately ⅛ inch thick. The thinner the shreds, the more tender the slaw will be.
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Transfer the shredded cabbage to the bowl with the mayonnaise-pesto dressing.
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Toss the cabbage thoroughly with the dressing until all the shreds are evenly coated. Ensure the dressing is well distributed for optimal flavor.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Make-Ahead Magic: This slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance. The flavors actually meld together nicely as it sits. Just be aware that the cabbage may release some moisture, so you might want to drain off any excess liquid before serving.
- Pesto Perfection: For the best flavor, use a high-quality, freshly made pesto. If you’re using store-bought pesto, taste it first and adjust the amount to your liking. Some brands can be quite salty or oily.
- Cabbage Considerations: Savoy cabbage is known for its delicate texture and mild flavor, making it ideal for slaw. However, if you can’t find Savoy cabbage, you can substitute with green cabbage. Just be sure to shred it very thinly and massage it with a little salt to help soften it.
- Dressing Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the ratio of mayonnaise to pesto to suit your taste. If you prefer a tangier slaw, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of white wine vinegar to the dressing.
- Add-Ins: Get creative with add-ins! Consider adding toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, grated Parmesan cheese, or even some crumbled cooked bacon for extra flavor and texture.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve this Savoy Cabbage Slaw chilled as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches. It’s also a fantastic topping for tacos or pulled pork sliders.
To store leftovers, transfer the slaw to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the texture will soften over time as the cabbage releases moisture. It is not recommended to freeze this slaw.
Nutritional Information
Please note that the following values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 115 kcal | 6% |
| Total Fat | 10 g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g | 8% |
| Cholesterol | 8 mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 210 mg | 9% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 7 g | 3% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g | 4% |
| Sugars | 2 g | N/A |
| Protein | 1 g | 2% |
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegan Version: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative. There are many delicious vegan mayos available made from ingredients like aquafaba or cashews.
- Dairy-Free: Ensure your pesto is dairy-free. Many commercially prepared pestos contain Parmesan cheese, so look for a vegan version or make your own using nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Burst: Add the zest and juice of a lemon or lime to the dressing for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Herbaceous Delight: Incorporate other fresh herbs, such as basil, parsley, or chives, into the slaw for added flavor and aroma.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use regular green cabbage instead of Savoy cabbage?
A: Yes, you can use green cabbage, but Savoy cabbage is preferred due to its milder flavor and more tender texture. If using green cabbage, shred it very thinly and massage it with a little salt to help soften it.
Q: How long does this slaw last in the refrigerator?
A: This slaw will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the texture will soften over time as the cabbage releases moisture.
Q: Can I freeze this slaw?
A: Freezing is not recommended as it will alter the texture of the cabbage and make it mushy.
Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought pesto, but be sure to taste it first and adjust the amount to your liking. Some brands can be quite salty or oily.
Q: Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
A: Yes, this slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance. The flavors actually meld together nicely as it sits. Just be aware that the cabbage may release some moisture, so you might want to drain off any excess liquid before serving.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy this Savoy Cabbage Slaw as much as my family and friends do! It’s a refreshing and flavorful twist on a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and add-ins to create your own unique version. I would love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you come up with. Consider pairing this slaw with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!