Heart Smart Coleslaw
A light and healthy coleslaw featuring shredded cabbage, green pepper, and onion, dressed with a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect for a side dish or picnic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine mayonnaise, vinegar, and mustard. Chill the dressing.
- Just before serving, toss shredded cabbage, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion with the dressing.
- Moisten the salad with the dressing and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try substituting the safflower mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. If you prefer more crunch, add shredded carrots or radishes to the slaw. For added flavor, consider incorporating a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the dressing. Adjust the vinegar to taste if you like a tangier flavor. Experiment with different types of vinegar for varied profiles.
Serving Suggestions
This Heart Smart Coleslaw pairs beautifully with a light grilled chicken or fish dish for a refreshing contrast. It also makes a great side for barbecue meals, complementing the smoky flavors well. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a Quick Vegetable Medley or as a topping on a sandwich for added crunch and flavor. Perfect for picnics or summer gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the texture may soften. To refresh the salad before serving, you can add a splash more vinegar or a little additional mayonnaise to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing as the texture of the cabbage will degrade.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heart Smart Coleslaw contains roughly 62 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Combine them just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the cabbage and peppers. This allows the flavors to meld without losing the fresh texture.
What can I substitute for safflower mayonnaise?
You can substitute safflower mayonnaise with any other vegan mayonnaise or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you're looking for a nut-free option, avocado can also serve as a creamy base for the dressing.
Is this coleslaw suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based mayonnaise. This way, it fits perfectly into vegan recipes while still providing a creamy and delicious side dish that everyone can enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).