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Creamy Dairy-Free Coleslaw with Cashew Dressing

creamy dairy-free coleslaw - featured image

A silky, tangy, dairy-free coleslaw made with a creamy cashew dressing, perfect for summer BBQs and potlucks. This refreshing side is quick to prepare and uses simple pantry staples and fresh veggies.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ¾ cup (110 g) raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight
  • ½ cup (120 ml) unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond or oat milk recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 cups (340 g) green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 2 cups (170 g) red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup (120 g) carrots, peeled and grated
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Soak the cashews: Place ¾ cup (110 g) raw cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. If pressed for time, boil for 15 minutes until soft, then drain.
  2. Prepare the veggies: Finely shred 4 cups (340 g) green cabbage and 2 cups (170 g) red cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Peel and grate 1 cup (120 g) carrots. Thinly slice 2 green onions if using. Toss all veggies together in a large bowl.
  3. Make the dressing: Drain soaked cashews and add to a blender with ½ cup (120 ml) unsweetened non-dairy milk, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until ultra-smooth and creamy, scraping sides as needed.
  4. Toss the coleslaw: Pour the cashew dressing over the shredded veggies. Gently toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired.
  5. Chill before serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly.
  6. Serve: Toss again before serving and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.

Notes

Soaking cashews properly is key for a creamy dressing; quick boil if short on time. Chill coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors and soften cabbage slightly. Adjust seasoning to taste. If dressing thickens after chilling, stir in a splash of non-dairy milk before serving. Use fresh shredded veggies for best texture. Can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or honey if not vegan.

Nutrition

Keywords: dairy-free coleslaw, cashew dressing, vegan coleslaw, dairy-free side dish, summer BBQ side, creamy coleslaw, vegan salad