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When the temperatures rise and fresh produce is at its peak, nothing beats the refreshing crunch of a summer cabbage salad.
Packed with flavor, color, and texture, these salads are perfect for barbecues, picnics, or light lunches on sunny days.
Cabbage, with its crisp bite and ability to soak up bold dressings, is the star of these dishes — whether tossed with sweet fruits, spicy peppers, tangy vinaigrettes, or creamy dressings.
In this curated collection of 25+ summer cabbage salad recipes, you’ll find an exciting variety of styles from classic coleslaws to global-inspired twists that suit every palate.
These salads are not only versatile and delicious, but also easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrients.
Whether you’re serving them as a side or making them the main event, there’s a perfect cabbage salad waiting for you in this roundup.
25+ Refreshing Cabbage Salads Perfect for Summer BBQs
From sweet and tropical slaws to spicy, herb-laced mixes, these 25+ summer cabbage salad recipes prove that cabbage is anything but boring.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic, or just craving something light and satisfying, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste and mood.
These dishes celebrate seasonal freshness with every crunchy bite — all you have to do is grab your cutting board and dive in.
Creamy Coleslaw
Creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly tangy, Classic Creamy Coleslaw is the quintessential summer cabbage salad that never goes out of style.
The cool blend of shredded green cabbage and crisp carrots, coated in a luscious mayonnaise-based dressing, creates a refreshing balance of sweetness and sharpness.
This salad bursts with texture — the crunch of fresh vegetables pairs perfectly with the smooth, velvety dressing.
Its versatility makes it an ideal side for barbecued meats or a satisfying topping for sandwiches and burgers.
Whether you’re hosting a picnic or simply craving a light bite, this coleslaw delivers comfort and zing in every forkful.
Asian Cabbage Salad
Asian Cabbage Salad is a bold, colorful medley that dances on your palate with every bite.
Infused with sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, this salad delivers a vibrant umami punch balanced by the crisp freshness of red cabbage, carrots, and green onions.
A sprinkle of toasted almonds and crunchy ramen noodles adds irresistible texture and nutty richness.
It’s a light yet satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or stands proudly as a vegetarian main.
With its fragrant aroma and rainbow hues, this salad brings an exotic flair to any summer table.
German Cabbage Salad
German Cabbage Salad brings a warm, savory twist to the traditional summer slaw, infused with the comforting aroma of sautéed onions and caraway seeds.
The tangy vinegar-based dressing softens the cabbage just enough to retain a slight crunch, while smoky bacon bits add depth and a touch of indulgence.
This hearty salad is a perfect complement to bratwursts and grilled sausages, but it’s equally delightful on its own with a slice of rustic bread.
Earthy, zesty, and full of old-world charm, this dish evokes the feeling of a cozy outdoor gathering.
Apple Cabbage Slaw
Sweet meets savory in the delightfully crisp Apple Cabbage Slaw, where tart green apples mingle with shredded purple cabbage for a refreshing burst of summer flavor.
A drizzle of honey-lime vinaigrette brings brightness and balance, enhancing the natural sweetness and providing a citrusy zing.
With each bite, you’ll enjoy a juicy crunch that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish.
This slaw is as pretty as it is delicious, adding a touch of elegance to any picnic or patio dinner.
Spicy Mexican Cabbage Slaw
Spicy Mexican Cabbage Slaw is a fiery celebration of flavor that livens up tacos, enchiladas, or any summer spread.
Packed with jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and red cabbage, this slaw combines heat, zest, and a satisfying crunch in every bite.
The chili-lime aroma teases your senses before the first forkful even reaches your lips.
Whether you’re spicing up a barbecue or craving a bold standalone salad, this vibrant dish delivers a south-of-the-border punch.
Thai Peanut Cabbage Salad
Thai Peanut Cabbage Salad is a creamy, tangy fusion dish that elevates cabbage to a whole new level of deliciousness.
The silky peanut dressing, bursting with ginger, garlic, and lime, clings to shredded cabbage, bell peppers, and carrots in a harmony of flavor and texture.
Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro add the perfect final touch — crunchy, aromatic, and irresistible.
Ideal as a main dish or side, this salad offers a satisfying plant-based option that’s both exotic and comforting.
Red Cabbage Slaw
Red Cabbage Slaw is a vibrant and refreshing salad that brings both color and crunch to your summer table.
With its naturally peppery bite and firm texture, red cabbage holds up beautifully in light vinaigrettes.
A touch of apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil gives the slaw a tangy brightness that’s balanced by a hint of sweetness.
It’s a crisp companion to grilled meats, tacos, or sandwiches, but also satisfying enough to enjoy on its own.
The bold hue and zesty flavor make it a standout in both flavor and presentation.
Cabbage and Corn Slaw
Cabbage and Corn Slaw is a sweet and savory twist that captures the essence of summer in every bite.
Juicy kernels of sweet corn mingle with shredded green cabbage, tossed in a zippy lime dressing that enhances the salad’s natural freshness.
Fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder add a gentle kick and a herbaceous lift.
Perfect as a picnic side or a taco topping, this slaw is sunshine in a bowl.
Its blend of creamy, crisp, and juicy textures will keep you coming back for more.
Greek Cabbage Salad
Greek Cabbage Salad is a Mediterranean delight bursting with crisp texture and bold flavor.
Shredded cabbage is tossed with crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, and cherry tomatoes, then drizzled with a lemon-oregano vinaigrette.
Each bite is tangy, salty, and wonderfully refreshing, with the briny olives adding depth to the crunchy base.
Serve it alongside grilled lamb, chicken, or falafel for a meal that feels both light and hearty.
This salad brings a breezy Aegean charm to your summer menu.
Cilantro Lime Slaw
Cilantro Lime Slaw is a zesty, herb-forward salad that adds brightness to any dish it accompanies.
Freshly shredded cabbage is dressed in a simple mix of lime juice, olive oil, and chopped cilantro, letting the ingredients shine.
It’s aromatic and tangy, with just the right amount of citrus to awaken your palate.
Ideal for fish tacos, rice bowls, or as a light side dish, it adds a pop of flavor without overpowering.
Simple, clean, and incredibly refreshing — it’s summer in a bite.
Vietnamese Cabbage Salad
Vietnamese Cabbage Salad, also known as “Gỏi Bắp Cải,” is a fragrant, crunchy blend that’s as satisfying as it is light.
Shredded cabbage is tossed with mint, basil, carrots, and roasted peanuts, all tied together with a sweet-tangy fish sauce dressing.
The mix of herbs fills the air with a garden-fresh aroma, while the peanuts add a nutty crunch.
This salad works well as a starter or side, but it’s also hearty enough with grilled shrimp or chicken to be a full meal.
It’s a flavor-packed dish that brings Southeast Asian flair to summer meals.
Smoky Cabbage Slaw
Smoky Cabbage Slaw is a bold, barbecue-inspired salad that turns heads and excites taste buds.
Smoked paprika and a hint of chipotle in the dressing infuse shredded cabbage with deep, smoky warmth.
Creamy mayo adds smoothness while vinegar cuts through with brightness, creating a balanced and memorable flavor.
This slaw shines beside ribs, pulled pork, or grilled tofu, adding contrast and texture.
It’s comfort food with a smoky twist, perfect for any summer feast.
Cabbage Carrot Slaw
Cabbage Carrot Slaw is a fresh and crunchy mix that highlights the natural sweetness of simple vegetables.
Shredded cabbage and carrots come together in a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing, depending on your mood.
The contrast of textures — crisp cabbage and tender carrot — makes every bite feel bright and refreshing.
It’s a classic choice for burgers, barbecue, or even a quick midday snack.
Colorful, crisp, and endlessly versatile, this slaw is a must-have for warm-weather meals.
Napa Cabbage Salad
Napa Cabbage Salad is a light and airy dish with a delicate crunch and subtle sweetness.
This salad features soft, frilly cabbage leaves tossed with scallions, almonds, and a sesame-soy dressing.
A hint of toasted sesame oil brings a nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish.
It pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, rice dishes, or Asian-inspired mains.
Mild yet flavorful, it’s a refreshing break from heavier summer sides.
Rainbow Cabbage Slaw
Rainbow Cabbage Slaw is a stunning, multicolored dish that adds visual appeal to any spread.
Packed with red cabbage, green cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, it’s as pretty as it is delicious.
A tangy dressing made with vinegar and a touch of honey adds brightness without overpowering the vegetables.
Its crisp texture and eye-catching hues make it perfect for entertaining or meal prep.
Whether served on its own or tucked into wraps, this slaw brings color and crunch to your plate.
Sweet Vinegar Slaw
Sweet Vinegar Slaw is a sugar-kissed take on the classic cabbage salad with a delightful tang.
The cabbage softens slightly under a warm mix of vinegar and sugar, absorbing bold flavor while keeping its crunch.
With no mayo in sight, it’s a lighter, dairy-free option that’s perfect for outdoor events.
This slaw is especially tasty alongside pulled pork, grilled chicken, or fried fish.
Its balance of sweet and sour makes it irresistible and refreshing.
Cabbage Mango Slaw
Cabbage Mango Slaw is a tropical twist on tradition, blending crunchy cabbage with juicy mango chunks.
The sweetness of ripe mango pairs beautifully with a citrusy lime dressing and a touch of chili for heat.
Fresh cilantro and red onion add aroma and contrast, making each bite pop with flavor.
Serve it with grilled shrimp, fish tacos, or as a light standalone salad.
It’s sweet, spicy, and wonderfully vibrant — summer in its most flavorful form.
Mediterranean Slaw
Mediterranean Slaw combines shredded cabbage with juicy tomatoes, cucumber, and creamy feta.
Tossed in a lemony olive oil dressing with fresh oregano, it’s zesty, refreshing, and deeply satisfying.
The creamy tang of feta contrasts perfectly with the crispness of the cabbage and vegetables.
Great as a side to grilled meats, pita wraps, or grain bowls, this salad is a warm-weather staple.
It’s a fresh, herb-packed spin on classic slaw that brings the Mediterranean sun to your plate.
Asian Ramen Slaw
Asian Ramen Slaw is a crunchy, flavor-packed salad that blends cabbage with crispy ramen noodles for a fun twist.
A soy-sesame vinaigrette ties it all together with savory sweetness and a hint of tang.
Toasted almonds and green onions add layers of texture and aroma that keep each bite exciting.
This slaw pairs well with grilled chicken, pork skewers, or stands alone as a lively lunch.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks and summer picnics.
Creamy Vegan Slaw
Creamy Vegan Slaw offers all the richness of traditional slaw with a dairy-free twist.
Using plant-based mayo or cashew cream, it delivers a smooth texture and tangy flavor.
Cabbage, carrots, and red onion provide crisp contrast and a refreshing crunch.
Perfect for vegan burgers, BBQs, or as a light snack, it satisfies without compromise.
Rich, creamy, and guilt-free — it’s summer comfort food redefined.
Tangy Dill Slaw
Tangy Dill Slaw is a herbaceous, pickle-inspired salad with a cool and zesty vibe.
A vinegar-forward dressing infused with fresh dill coats finely shredded cabbage for a refreshing tang.
Hints of garlic and mustard seed add depth and complexity to each bite.
Serve it with grilled salmon, sandwiches, or as a bold topping for hot dogs.
It’s a garden-fresh, flavorful slaw that brings a unique twist to classic sides.
Tropical Cabbage Slaw
Tropical Cabbage Slaw is a sweet and sunny dish packed with pineapple, cabbage, and coconut.
A light citrus dressing with lime and a dash of honey brings out the fruit’s natural juiciness.
Toasted coconut flakes add crunch and a beachy aroma that makes it perfect for summer.
Pair it with jerk chicken, seafood, or a tropical grain bowl.
It’s a sunny escape in salad form, full of flavor and fun.
Jalapeño Slaw
Jalapeño Slaw brings heat and crunch together in a bold, spicy side dish.
Shredded cabbage and carrots are tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing with thin slices of jalapeño for a fiery kick.
Each bite delivers a balance of creamy coolness and lingering spice.
It’s the perfect partner for BBQ ribs, tacos, or spicy sandwiches.
This slaw turns up the volume on flavor without overwhelming your plate.
Cabbage Beet Slaw
Cabbage Beet Slaw is a colorful, earthy salad that blends sweet beets with crisp cabbage.
Tossed in a light vinaigrette, the natural sweetness of beets shines through without overpowering.
The deep magenta hues and tender-crunchy texture create a stunning presentation.
Serve it with roasted meats or as a detox-friendly side for summer lunches.
It’s bold, beautiful, and full of nourishing goodness.
Lemon Herb Slaw
Lemon Herb Slaw is a bright and fragrant salad perfect for hot days.
Fresh lemon juice, parsley, mint, and a drizzle of olive oil transform simple cabbage into something special.
Light and aromatic, this slaw offers a refreshing break from creamy versions.
It complements grilled vegetables, white fish, or Mediterranean dishes with ease.
Clean, crisp, and vibrant — it’s a salad that lets freshness shine.
Conclusion
With this roundup of 25+ summer cabbage salad recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas for cool, crisp, and delicious meals.
These salads are perfect as sides, mains, or even meal prep staples throughout the warmer months.
Versatile, easy to make, and endlessly customizable, they’re the perfect way to keep your summer menu fresh, healthy, and exciting.
Try a few — and let cabbage take the spotlight all season long.
