Looking for a quick, healthy, and vibrant side dish that adds a burst of color and flavor to any meal? Look no further than this Quick & Healthy Red Cabbage Slaw Recipe! This simple and nutritious slaw is packed with crunchy vegetables, a zesty lime dressing, and an explosion of flavor that complements any main dish. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, prepping a weeknight dinner, or looking for a nutritious snack, this Red Cabbage Slaw is the perfect choice.
Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients, red cabbage is not only visually appealing but also provides numerous health benefits. This slaw recipe is quick to prepare and can be served immediately or stored for later use. If you’re on the lookout for a quick healthy side dish, this cabbage slaw will become your go-to for its versatility, freshness, and tangy flavor.
Why Red Cabbage Slaw Is So Special
The star of this recipe, red cabbage, is often overlooked in favor of its green counterpart, but it’s actually a nutritional powerhouse. With its rich purple color, red cabbage is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants that support immune health, improve digestion, and help prevent chronic diseases. The combination of red cabbage, la carotteet bell pepper provides a balance of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and refreshing.
What sets this slaw apart is the lime dressing. While many traditional coleslaw recipes use creamy, mayonnaise-based dressings, this lime dressing is light and fresh, allowing the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through. It’s also a healthier alternative, making this recipe ideal for anyone looking to cut down on calories without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients for Red Cabbage Slaw
You only need a few fresh ingredients to create this vibrant and healthy slaw. Here’s what you’ll need to make the Quick Healthy Red Cabbage Slaw:
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups of shredded red cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 large carrot, julienned or grated
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for an extra zing)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced bell pepper (red or yellow for added color)

For the Lime Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (to balance the acidity)
- Sel et poivre au goût
- A pinch of cayenne or chili powder (optional for a slight kick)
How to Make Red Cabbage Slaw
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by preparing the red cabbage. Remove the outer leaves, then cut the cabbage in half. Slice the cabbage into thin strips (about 1/8-inch wide). For the best results, you can use a mandolin slicer to ensure that the cabbage is uniformly shredded. If you don’t have a mandolin, a sharp knife works just as well. Once shredded, give the cabbage a rough chop to break it down into bite-sized pieces.
Next, peel and grate the la carotte. You can also use a julienne peeler if you prefer matchstick-sized pieces. For added crunch and color, slice up a bell pepper (red or yellow) into thin strips. The sweetness of the bell pepper complements the tanginess of the cabbage perfectly. If you’re a fan of extra flavor, thinly slice some oignon rouge to add a bit of sharpness to the slaw. Fresh la coriandre is also a great addition if you love its bright, herby taste.
Step 2: Make the Lime Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine the jus de lime, vinaigre de cidre de pommeet miel. Whisk them together until the honey is fully dissolved. Slowly drizzle in the l'huile d'olive, continuing to whisk until the dressing emulsifies. The olive oil gives the dressing a rich texture, while the jus de lime et vinegar provide a nice balance of acidity.
Season the dressing with a pinch of sel et poivre to taste. If you want to spice things up, add a pinch of de poivre de cayenne or a dash of chili powder to give the dressing a little kick. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. The beauty of this dressing is that it’s entirely customizable based on your flavor profile.
Step 3: Combine the Slaw and Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded red cabbage, la carotte, bell pepper, and any other vegetables you’re using. Pour the lime dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until the cabbage is evenly coated. Use your hands or tongs to mix gently, ensuring that each vegetable is dressed with the tangy, zesty sauce.
L' lime dressing will work its magic, tenderizing the cabbage slightly while keeping it crunchy and refreshing. If you have time, let the slaw sit in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This gives the cabbage time to absorb the dressing, making each bite even more flavorful.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once mixed, the Quick Healthy Red Cabbage Slaw is ready to be served! It can be eaten immediately, or you can let it chill in the fridge for a bit before serving. This slaw is perfect as a refreshing side dish for lunch, dinner, or a BBQ. It’s great for meal prepping and can last up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
Health Benefits of Red Cabbage Slaw
Not only is this Cabbage Slaw recipe tasty, but it’s also packed with health benefits that make it a must-have addition to your diet. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional powerhouses of the ingredients in this slaw:
1. Rich in Antioxidants
The beautiful purple color of red cabbage is due to anthocyanins, potent antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants help protect the body’s cells from damage and have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Adding red cabbage to your diet can also support brain health and promote healthy aging.
2. High in Fiber
Fiber is essential for digestive health, and red cabbage is a great source of it. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, supports healthy gut bacteria, and may reduce the risk of colon cancer. The fiber in the cabbage, along with the carrots and bell peppers, makes this slaw a filling and nutritious addition to any meal. It’s also great for maintaining a healthy weight since fiber promotes feelings of fullness and aids in digestion.
3. Vitamin C Boost
Both lime et red cabbage are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports the immune system and promotes collagen production. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and helps prevent oxidative damage. A serving of Red Cabbage Slaw provides a significant portion of your daily Vitamin C intake.
4. Low in Calories, High in Nutrients
Cette Quick Healthy Red Cabbage Slaw is naturally low in calories while being high in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This makes it a great choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake without sacrificing nutrients. It’s also a great option for anyone trying to lose or maintain weight, as the fiber content helps you feel fuller for longer.
5. Supports Heart Health
The anthocyanins found in red cabbage are linked to improved heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease. They can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and protect the blood vessels. Additionally, the fiber in this slaw recipe supports healthy cholesterol levels and blood sugar regulation, making it a heart-friendly option for any diet.

Why This Red Cabbage Slaw Is the Perfect Side Dish
Cette Cabbage Slaw recipe is a perfect side dish because it’s versatile, easy to prepare, and pairs well with a wide variety of meals. Here’s why it’s the perfect side dish for any occasion:
1. Perfect Pairing for Grilled Meats
The bright, tangy flavor of this Red Cabbage Slaw is an excellent complement to grilled meats. Whether you’re having poulet grillé, steakou fish tacos, this slaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances out the richness of the meat. It’s especially great for barbecues, where you can serve it alongside burgers, hot dogs, or grilled veggies.
2. Light and Refreshing for Summer Meals
On hot summer days, when you’re craving something light and refreshing, this Quick Healthy Red Cabbage Slaw is the perfect choice. Its cool, crisp texture and citrusy dressing make it a great option to accompany a picnic, potluck, or outdoor gathering. The slaw can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop, making it a convenient and crowd-pleasing dish.
3. Idéal pour la préparation des Repas
Cette Cabbage Slaw is an excellent meal prep option. It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an ideal side for busy weekdays. Pair it with a variety of meals, such as grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a hearty grain bowl. It’s a convenient and healthy way to ensure you have a nutritious side dish ready to go.
4. Vibrant Addition to Any Meal
The bright colors of red cabbage, les carotteset bell peppers not only make this slaw visually appealing but also provide a variety of flavors and textures that enhance any meal. It’s a perfect way to add a pop of color and a burst of nutrients to your plate, whether you’re serving a casual family dinner or hosting a special event.
Conclusion
Cette Quick & Healthy Red Cabbage Slaw is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious side dish. With its vibrant colors, crunchy texture, and zesty lime dressing, it’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables and antioxidants from red cabbage makes this slaw a powerhouse of nutrients, and the light lime dressing ensures it’s a healthier alternative to traditional creamy coleslaw.
So, next time you’re in need of a perfect side dish, whip up this Red Cabbage Slaw and enjoy the refreshing crunch and bold flavors that it brings to your meal. Whether you’re grilling, barbecuing, or just want something light and healthy, this slaw will elevate your dish and provide you with a host of health benefits along the way.