Low Calorie Cole Slaw

Prep: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Low Calorie Cole Slaw is a refreshing and crunchy salad that combines the crispness of cabbage and carrots with a tangy, light dressing. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthier side dish, this slaw is a great accompaniment to barbecues or picnics, offering a guilt-free option that doesn't compromise on flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1 medium cabbage, shredded
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • sweetener to equal 10 tsp. sugar
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. celery seed
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1/2 c. plus 2 Tbsp. plus 2 tsp. reduced-calorie mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Place cabbage and carrot in a large bowl.
  2. Sprinkle with sweetener, salt, and celery seed on top.
  3. Let stand for 5 minutes.
  4. Mix vinegar and mayonnaise together.
  5. Spoon the mixture over the cabbage.
  6. Toss to blend.
  7. Chill for several hours and toss occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crunchier texture, try using red cabbage along with green cabbage. You can substitute the sweetener with honey or agave syrup if you prefer a more natural option. To add a kick, consider mixing in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a dash of hot sauce. If you're looking for more flavor, fresh herbs like parsley or dill would also work well in this cole slaw.

Serving Suggestions

This low-calorie cole slaw makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches, such as BBQ pulled chicken or fish tacos. It pairs beautifully with Round Steaks Smothered In Onions for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, serve alongside a refreshing Cucumber And Melon Salad. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together over time, enhancing the taste. To refresh the cole slaw before serving, give it a gentle toss and add a splash of vinegar or a dollop of mayonnaise if it seems dry. Avoid freezing, as the texture will become mushy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Low Calorie Cole Slaw contains roughly 30 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 924mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).

30 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.6g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.6g 1% DV
Carbs 5.5g 2% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 3.4g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 924.1mg 40% DV
Potassium 159.2mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 155mcg 17% DV
Vitamin C 4.1mg 5% DV
Calcium 24mg 2% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 cole slaw ahead of time?

Yes, this cole slaw can be made a day in advance. In fact, allowing it to chill for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavors. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Is there a vegan alternative for the mayonnaise?

Absolutely! You can use a vegan mayonnaise substitute or a mixture of silken tofu blended with a little lemon juice and spices for a creamy texture. This keeps the recipe vegan and still delicious.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the cole slaw?

You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweetener according to your taste. Start with the recommended amount and taste the mixture before serving. If you prefer a tangier slaw, reduce the sweetener and add a bit more vinegar.

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).

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