This creamy cabbage and avocado slaw is a colorful, nutrient-packed side dish that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying.
Loaded with plant-based protein from hemp seeds, heart-healthy fats from avocado, and fiber-rich cabbage, it’s a light yet filling recipe that supports balanced eating.
With no cooking required, it comes together in minutes, making it a fantastic everyday option for quick meals, meal prep, or healthy family dinners.
15-Minute Creamy Cabbage Avocado Slaw
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Sharp knife (or food processor with slicing disc)
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Set of Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 6 cups cabbage finely shredded (mix of green and purple)
- ½ cup red bell pepper diced (or use shredded carrot)
- 1 large avocado peeled, pitted, and diced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil cold-pressed
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup scallions finely diced
- ½ cup hemp seeds
- 6 tablespoons cilantro chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage base: Begin by finely shredding the cabbage. If you’re using a sharp knife, place the cabbage on a cutting board and slice it as thinly as possible into delicate ribbons. For a quicker option, use the slicing disc of a food processor to achieve consistent shreds. A mix of green and purple cabbage not only makes the slaw more visually vibrant but also adds different textures and flavors. Transfer the shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl.
- Dice and chop the vegetables: Next, dice the red bell pepper into small, uniform cubes so they blend smoothly with the slaw. If you prefer, you can substitute with freshly shredded carrots for a slightly sweeter crunch. Finely chop the scallions into small pieces, making sure to include both the white and green parts for extra flavor. Roughly chop the cilantro leaves, keeping them light and fluffy so they distribute evenly.Add the bell pepper (or carrot), scallions, and cilantro into the bowl with the cabbage.
- Add the creamy element: Cut the ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and carefully scoop out the flesh. Dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. Place the avocado directly into the mixing bowl with the other vegetables.The avocado will serve as the creamy binder in this slaw, giving it a luscious texture without the need for mayonnaise or dairy.
- Create the fresh lime dressing: In a small cup or directly over the bowl, drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and squeeze fresh lime juice. This combination forms a light, tangy, and refreshing dressing that enhances the flavors of the crunchy vegetables while helping the avocado mash smoothly into the mix. Sprinkle in the sea salt to balance and lift the overall taste.
- Incorporate superfood hemp seeds: Measure out the hemp seeds and sprinkle them generously over the salad. Hemp seeds are a great source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, which not only improve the nutritional value of the dish but also add a subtle nutty flavor and gentle crunch.
- Massage and combine thoroughly: Now comes the most important part—using clean hands, gently massage the ingredients together for 1–2 minutes. As you massage, the avocado will naturally break down and coat the cabbage, creating a creamy dressing that binds everything together. This step also softens the cabbage slightly, making it tender while keeping its satisfying crunch. Make sure the avocado is evenly distributed so every bite has a creamy texture and balanced flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: After mixing, taste the slaw to check the flavor balance. If it needs more brightness, add a splash of extra lime juice. For a richer taste, drizzle in a little more olive oil. If you prefer a stronger seasoning, sprinkle in an additional pinch of sea salt. Adjusting at this stage ensures the slaw is perfectly balanced before serving.
- Serve and enjoy immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the slaw right away. The avocado will stay creamy and fresh, and the cabbage will still have its vibrant crunch. This slaw pairs beautifully with grilled dishes, tacos, sandwiches, or as a light, stand-alone salad.Make-ahead tip: If you’re preparing in advance, combine all ingredients except the avocado. Store the mixture covered in the refrigerator, then add and massage the avocado into the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and green.
Notes
- A mix of purple and green cabbage adds color, crunch, and nutrients.
- Hemp seeds provide plant-based protein and healthy fats, making this slaw extra nourishing.
- Massaging the cabbage with avocado is key—it softens the texture while creating a creamy dressing.
- You can prepare the vegetables in advance but add avocado only before serving to prevent browning.
- This slaw pairs equally well as a side dish or a light, standalone meal.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Slaw
The secret to making this slaw creamy yet light is the technique of massaging.
When you gently massage avocado into the shredded cabbage, it breaks down into a silky dressing that coats every strand without needing heavy mayonnaise or dairy.
Another chef’s trick is to shred the cabbage as thinly as possible—this ensures each bite is tender yet still crisp.
Don’t skip the hemp seeds either; they act like tiny flavor boosters, adding protein, healthy fats, and a subtle nutty crunch that balances the tang of lime.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
This slaw is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.
Serve it alongside grilled vegetables, fish, or chicken for a refreshing side, or use it as a vibrant topping for tacos, wraps, or burgers.
It also makes a great picnic or potluck dish since it’s colorful, easy to transport, and loved by both adults and kids.
For a more filling meal, serve it over quinoa or pair it with roasted sweet potatoes for a wholesome plant-based option.
Storage Tips for Freshness
For best results, enjoy this slaw immediately after preparing it to keep the avocado vibrant and green.
If you need to make it ahead, combine all ingredients except the avocado and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
When ready to serve, dice and massage the avocado into the salad to keep it fresh and creamy.
If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for up to a day, but note that the avocado may darken slightly, though the flavor will still be delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes! You can shred and prep the vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge.
Just wait to add the avocado until right before serving to keep it from turning brown.
2. What can I use instead of hemp seeds?
If hemp seeds aren’t available, you can use sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch and protein.
3. How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Fresh lime juice naturally slows browning, but the best way is to add avocado only at the last moment.
If storing leftovers, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the slaw to minimize oxidation.
4. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix works well and saves time. Just make sure it’s fresh and crisp for the best flavor and texture.
5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
It can be meal-prep friendly if you prepare the cabbage and dressing in advance, then store them separately.
Add the avocado and hemp seeds right before eating to maintain freshness and creaminess.
