Are you tired of heavy, soggy coleslaw recipes that weigh down your favorite dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’re diving into the world of refreshing light cole slaw recipes that are sure to delight. With a variety of flavors and textures, these slaws are perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or enjoying as a snack on their own.
From tangy apple cider vinegar to creamy Greek yogurt, each recipe in our collection is designed to be light, crisp, and deliciously refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a classic coleslaw flavor or something a little more adventurous, we’ve got you covered with 18 unique and mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Tangy Apple Cider Vinegar Light Cole Slaw
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of apple cider vinegar for a light and crunchy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Stir in the diced apple.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Greek Yogurt Light Cole Slaw
Elevate your coleslaw game with this refreshing twist that combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with a hint of sweetness. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Zesty Lemon and Dill Light Cole Slaw
This refreshing slaw combines the brightness of lemon with the subtlety of dill, perfect for a light and zesty side dish or topping. With its tangy flavor profile, it’s an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or as a crunchy addition to sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Light Cole Slaw
This refreshing slaw combines the flavors of sesame, ginger, and Asian spices to create a unique and delicious side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite stir-fries or noodle dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Light Cole Slaw
This refreshing slaw combines the sweetness of pineapple with a spicy kick, perfect for topping your favorite BBQ dishes or as a side dish for outdoor gatherings. With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this delicious and light slaw in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and diced pineapple.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Avocado Lime Light Cole Slaw
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime juice for a light and tangy side dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and diced avocado.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served chilled, making it a quick and easy addition to your next BBQ or potluck.
Crunchy Jicama and Carrot Light Cole Slaw
This refreshing slaw recipe combines the crunch of jicama and carrots with a hint of tanginess, perfect for topping tacos or using as a crunchy snack. With only 10 minutes of prep time, this slaw is quick to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 large jicama, peeled and grated
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated jicama and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the jicama-carrot mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Fresh Herb and Mustard Light Cole Slaw
Fresh Herb and Mustard Light Cole Slaw Recipe
This refreshing cole slaw recipe combines the brightness of fresh herbs with a tangy mustard dressing, making it perfect for topping sandwiches or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
3. Add the chopped parsley and dill to the dressing mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Radiant Beet and Cabbage Light Cole Slaw
Brighten up your meal with this vibrant and refreshing slaw, featuring the natural sweetness of beets and the crunch of cabbage. Perfect as a side dish or topping for sandwiches and salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let the beets cool, then peel and grate them.
3. In a large bowl, combine the grated beets, shredded cabbage, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Toss to coat.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Citrusy Orange and Fennel Light Cole Slaw
This refreshing slaw is perfect for hot summer days or as a crunchy accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats. The combination of juicy oranges, sweet fennel, and tangy vinegar creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 small bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, orange segments, and fennel slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy prep.
Light Cole Slaw with Honey Mustard Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the crunch of shredded cabbage and carrots with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing. Perfect for topping burgers, hot dogs, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Summer Berry and Cabbage Light Cole Slaw
This refreshing slaw combines the sweetness of summer berries with the crunch of cabbage, making it a perfect side dish for warm weather gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and healthy accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded red cabbage
– 1 cup mixed summer berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and summer berries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Smoky Paprika and Corn Light Cole Slaw
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the smokiness of paprika for a unique flavor profile. Perfect as a side dish or topping for your favorite barbecue or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and corn kernels.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Cool Cucumber and Mint Light Cole Slaw
Cool Cucumber and Mint Light Cole Slaw Recipe
Refresh your taste buds with this light and refreshing cole slaw recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a side dish to your favorite grilled meats. This slaw combines the crunch of cucumbers and the brightness of mint in a creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices and chopped mint.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pomegranate and Walnut Light Cole Slaw
A refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw, this recipe combines the sweetness of pomegranate with the crunch of walnuts to create a light and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, pomegranate seeds, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Light Cole Slaw
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe adds a tangy and sweet balsamic glaze to a light and crunchy slaw. Perfect as a side dish or topping for your favorite barbecue dishes!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, balsamic glaze, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Sriracha and Lime Light Cole Slaw
Elevate your slaw game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines the spicy kick of sriracha with the brightness of lime. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a crunchy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and honey.
2. Mix until the slaw is well coated with the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chill time)
Light Cole Slaw with Toasted Almonds
Light Cole Slaw with Toasted Almonds: A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe adds crunchy toasted almonds and a hint of sweetness to balance out the tanginess of the slaw.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the slaw and toss again to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (mostly prep time)
Summary
Get ready to refresh your salad game with these 18 light and deliciously crisp cole slaw recipes! From tangy apple cider vinegar to creamy Greek yogurt, zesty lemon and dill to smoky paprika and corn, there’s a flavor combination to suit every taste. Discover unique twists like Asian-inspired sesame ginger, sweet and spicy pineapple, and crunchy jicama and carrot. Whether you’re looking for a summer side dish or a healthy snack, these light cole slaw recipes are sure to hit the spot.