15-Minute Creamy Cabbage Avocado Slaw
A creamy, crunchy, and colorful slaw made with shredded cabbage, ripe avocado, fresh lime, and protein-rich hemp seeds. This no-cook recipe is quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect as a side dish or light meal.
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.
