A Crisp, Refreshing, and Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Salad
If you’re looking for a bright, crunchy, and refreshing dish that’s nutrient-packed and bursting with flavor, this Fresh Vegan Cabbage Slaw with Avocado & Lime is a must-try. Made with crisp cabbage, creamy avocado, fresh herbs, and a zesty lime dressing, this slaw is the perfect side dish, light lunch, or topping for tacos, grain bowls, or wraps.
Unlike traditional coleslaw, which is often heavy with mayo, this version is dairy-free, oil-free, and naturally creamy thanks to avocado. It’s an incredibly light yet satisfying dish that’s packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors. Whether you serve it at summer barbecues, alongside tacos, or as a refreshing salad, it’s sure to become a favorite.
This slaw is not only quick and easy to make (ready in 15 minutes!), but it’s also gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free, making it perfect for any diet.
Why You’ll Love This Fresh Vegan Cabbage Slaw
1. Crunchy, Creamy, and Zesty
The combination of crisp cabbage, creamy avocado, and tangy lime dressing creates a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.
2. A Healthy, Nutrient-Packed Dish
Cabbage is high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while avocado provides heart-healthy fats. It’s a light yet filling dish that nourishes your body.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep & Make-Ahead Meals
This slaw stays crunchy and fresh for hours, making it an ideal meal-prep option for lunches or side dishes.
4. Versatile & Customizable
You can easily add extra veggies, swap ingredients, or spice it up to suit your preferences.
5. Quick & Easy – Ready in 15 Minutes!
No complicated steps—just chop, toss, and serve. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
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Ingredients
For the Cabbage Slaw:
- 3 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 cups purple cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 carrot, julienned or shredded
- ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup cilantro or parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (optional, for crunch)
For the Avocado Lime Dressing:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave (optional, for balance)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for depth)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cumin (optional, for warmth)
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2-3 tbsp water, as needed to thin dressing
Ingredient Breakdown
Cabbage – The Crunchy Base
Cabbage is low in calories but packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It stays crisp even after dressing, making it ideal for slaws.
Avocado – The Creamy Superfood
Avocado adds creaminess, healthy fats, and a rich texture, replacing the need for mayo or oil-based dressings.
Lime Juice – The Tangy Kick
Fresh lime juice adds bright acidity that balances the creaminess of the avocado and enhances all the flavors.
Pumpkin Seeds – The Nutty Crunch
Toasted pumpkin seeds add crunch, healthy fats, and a nutty depth, making the slaw even more satisfying.
Maple Syrup – The Natural Sweetener
A touch of maple syrup balances acidity without making the dressing too sweet.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Slaw
- Thinly slice green and purple cabbage using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor.
- Julienne or shred the carrot and bell pepper.
- Thinly slice the red onion and green onions.
- Chop the cilantro or parsley and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Avocado Lime Dressing
- In a small bowl or blender, mash the avocado until smooth.
- Stir in lime juice, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Add 2-3 tbsp water, whisking until the dressing is smooth and pourable.
Step 3: Assemble the Slaw
- In a large bowl, toss the cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, red onion, and green onions.
- Pour the avocado lime dressing over the slaw and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the diced avocado and pumpkin seeds just before serving.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavors.
Tips & Variations
- Make It Nut-Free: Skip the seeds or replace with crushed chickpeas for texture.
- Add Extra Crunch: Toss in shredded apples or radishes for a hint of sweetness and bite.
- For a Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, jalapeño slices, or sriracha to the dressing.
- Make It Oil-Free: This dressing is naturally oil-free, but you can add 1 tsp tahini for extra richness.
- Use Different Herbs: Try mint or basil instead of cilantro for a fresh twist.
- For Extra Protein: Add roasted chickpeas, black beans, or grilled tempeh to turn this slaw into a full meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~230
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~22g
- Fats: ~14g
- Fiber: ~7g
- Vitamin C: ~80% DV
- Iron: ~15% DV
This slaw is high in fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats, making it a nutrient-dense, feel-good meal.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cabbage stays crisp, but the avocado might brown slightly.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store the dressing separately and toss before serving for maximum freshness.
- Not Freezer-Friendly: Since avocado doesn’t freeze well, this slaw is best enjoyed fresh.
How to Serve This Slaw
This Fresh Vegan Cabbage Slaw with Avocado & Lime pairs beautifully with:
✔ Tacos – Perfect topping for vegan jackfruit or black bean tacos
✔ Burgers & Sandwiches – Great as a side with veggie burgers or BBQ tofu sandwiches
✔ Grain Bowls – Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or farro for a complete meal
✔ Wraps – Use as a filling for burritos or lettuce wraps
✔ BBQ or Picnic Side Dish – A fresh alternative to heavy coleslaws
Conclusion
This Fresh Vegan Cabbage Slaw with Avocado & Lime is crunchy, creamy, tangy, and incredibly refreshing. It’s an easy, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for meal prep, BBQs, or as a taco topping.
Try this recipe and let me know what you think! Did you add any fun variations? Share your experience in the comments below!
Disclaimer
Nutritional values are estimates. Always consult a professional for dietary advice.