Slaws

Cauliflower Slaw

Name: Cauliflower Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 head of cauliflower; 1/4 cup of mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill; 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or seeds; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

By Willa Northcote · June 19, 2026 · Slaws

Prep20 min

Cook0 min

Total30 min

Serves6

As a home cook, I've always been drawn to the simplicity and flavor of a well-made slaw. There's something special about the combination of crunchy texture, tangy dressing, and fresh herbs that just makes my heart sing. Today, I want to share with you my recipe for Cauliflower Slaw, a dish that's perfect for any time of year and can be made in under 30 minutes.

I remember the first time I made this slaw, it was a warm summer evening and I was looking for a side dish that would complement my grilled chicken. I had a head of cauliflower in the fridge and some basic pantry staples, so I decided to give it a try. The result was a game-changer - a slaw that was not only delicious but also healthy and easy to make.

What makes this recipe special is the use of cauliflower as the main ingredient. It's a great alternative to traditional cabbage slaw and adds a nice twist to the classic recipe. The dressing is also a key component, made with a combination of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard, it adds a tangy and creamy flavor to the slaw.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy side dish that's also healthy and delicious. It's great for picnics, barbecues, or even as a topping for your favorite salad or sandwich. So, let's get started and make this amazing Cauliflower Slaw!

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of fresh herbs, spices, and a tangy dressing to bring out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower. We'll also be adding some crunchy texture with the help of some chopped nuts and seeds. The result is a slaw that's not only delicious but also visually appealing and perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
It's a great side dish for any occasion, from picnics to barbecues.
The slaw is healthy and delicious, making it a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.
It's a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste preferences.
The dressing is tangy and creamy, making it a great addition to any salad or sandwich.
The recipe is perfect for a crowd, as it makes a large batch of slaw that can be served to multiple people.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making a great slaw is to balance the flavors and textures. In this recipe, we're using a combination of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard to create a tangy and creamy dressing. The acidity in the vinegar helps to break down the cell walls of the cauliflower, making it tender and easy to digest.

The use of fresh herbs like parsley and dill adds a bright and freshness to the slaw, while the chopped nuts and seeds provide a nice crunch. The dressing is also emulsified, which means that it's stable and won't separate, making it perfect for a slaw that's going to be sitting out for a while.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a mandoline to slice the cauliflower. This helps to create thin and uniform slices that are easy to chew and look great in the slaw. We're also using a food processor to chop the herbs and nuts, which helps to release their natural oils and flavors.

Overall, this recipe works because it's a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and techniques. The dressing is tangy and creamy, the cauliflower is tender and crunchy, and the fresh herbs add a bright and freshness to the slaw. It's a recipe that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great slaw, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. For this recipe, we're using a combination of fresh cauliflower, herbs, and spices to create a delicious and healthy slaw. We're also using a tangy and creamy dressing to bring out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower.

When shopping for the ingredients, be sure to choose a fresh head of cauliflower with no signs of wilting or browning. You'll also want to select fresh herbs like parsley and dill, as they add a bright and freshness to the slaw. For the dressing, we're using a combination of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard, which can be found in most grocery stores.

1 head of cauliflowerChoose a fresh head of cauliflower with no signs of wilting or browning. You can also use frozen cauliflower, but be sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture.
1/4 cup of mayonnaiseUse a high-quality mayonnaise that's made with wholesome ingredients. You can also make your own mayonnaise at home using egg yolks, oil, and vinegar.
2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar adds a tangy flavor to the slaw and helps to break down the cell walls of the cauliflower. You can also use white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar as a substitute.
1 tablespoon of Dijon mustardDijon mustard adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the slaw. You can also use whole-grain mustard or honey mustard as a substitute.
1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a bright and freshness to the slaw. You can also use other herbs like dill, basil, or cilantro as a substitute.
1/4 cup of chopped fresh dillFresh dill adds a bright and freshness to the slaw. You can also use other herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro as a substitute.
1/2 cup of chopped nuts or seedsChopped nuts or seeds add a nice crunch to the slaw. You can use almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds as a substitute.
Salt and pepper to tasteUse a high-quality salt and pepper to season the slaw. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder to taste.
2 tablespoons of olive oilOlive oil adds a rich and creamy flavor to the slaw. You can also use other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil as a substitute.
1 tablespoon of lemon juiceLemon juice adds a bright and freshness to the slaw. You can also use other citrus juices like lime or orange as a substitute.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlMandolineFood processorCutting boardKnifeMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Cauliflower Slaw

1
Start by rinsing the cauliflower under cold water and removing any leaves or stems. Cut the cauliflower into thin slices using a mandoline, making sure to slice it evenly so that it cooks consistently.
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3
Add the sliced cauliflower to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the cauliflower to absorb the flavors.
4
While the cauliflower is sitting, chop the fresh parsley and dill using a food processor or knife. Add the chopped herbs to the bowl and toss to combine.
5
Add the chopped nuts or seeds to the bowl and toss to combine. You can also toast the nuts or seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes to bring out their natural oils and flavors.
6
Drizzle the olive oil over the slaw and toss to combine. You can also add other ingredients like diced onions or carrots to the slaw if you prefer.
7
Squeeze the lemon juice over the slaw and toss to combine. You can also add other citrus juices like lime or orange to the slaw if you prefer.
8
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste.
9
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
10
Before serving, give the slaw a good stir and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
11
To serve, scoop the slaw into a bowl or onto a plate and garnish with additional herbs or nuts if desired. You can also serve it as a side dish or use it as a topping for your favorite salad or sandwich.

Expert Tips

Use a high-quality mayonnaise that's made with wholesome ingredients.
Don't over-dress the slaw, as it can become too soggy and overwhelming.
Add the chopped nuts or seeds just before serving, as they can become stale if they sit for too long.
Use a variety of herbs like parsley, dill, and basil to add depth and complexity to the slaw.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to make the slaw your own.
Make the slaw ahead of time and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Use a mandoline to slice the cauliflower, as it will help to create thin and uniform slices.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving, as it will help to brighten the flavors and add a touch of acidity to the slaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not slicing the cauliflower thinly enough, which can make it difficult to chew and digest.
Over-dressing the slaw, which can make it too soggy and overwhelming.
Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the slaw.
Not letting the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Not tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed, which can result in a slaw that's too salty or too bland.
Not using a variety of herbs and seasonings to add depth and complexity to the slaw.

Variations and Substitutions

Add diced onions or carrots to the slaw for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, to add crunch and flavor.
Add a sprinkle of grated cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, to the slaw for extra flavor and creaminess.
Use different types of vinegar, such as balsamic or white wine vinegar, to add a unique flavor to the slaw.
Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro, to the slaw for extra flavor and freshness.
Use a different type of oil, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, to add a unique flavor to the slaw.
Add a squeeze of lime or orange juice to the slaw for a burst of citrus flavor.

What to Serve With Cauliflower Slaw

This slaw is perfect as a side dish or as a topping for your favorite salad or sandwich. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. It's also a great addition to picnics, barbecues, or other outdoor gatherings.

Some other ideas for serving this slaw include using it as a topping for tacos or grilled meats, or as a side dish for soups or stews. You can also add it to your favorite salad or wrap for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Serve the slaw as a side dish for grilled meats or vegetables.Use the slaw as a topping for tacos or salads.Add the slaw to your favorite sandwich or wrap for a burst of flavor and freshness.Serve the slaw as a snack or appetizer at parties or gatherings.Use the slaw as a topping for soups or stews.Add the slaw to your favorite pasta dish or casserole for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This slaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

If you want to make the slaw ahead of time, you can prepare the ingredients and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until ready to assemble. Simply chop the herbs and nuts, slice the cauliflower, and whisk together the dressing, then store them in separate containers until ready to combine.

You can also freeze the slaw for up to 2 months. Simply transfer the slaw to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer until ready to thaw and serve.

To thaw the slaw, simply leave it in the refrigerator overnight or thaw it at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, give the slaw a good stir and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cauliflower should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of cauliflower for this recipe, but white or yellow cauliflower works best. You can also use frozen cauliflower, but be sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture.

Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing?

Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar in the dressing, such as balsamic or white wine vinegar. Simply substitute the apple cider vinegar with the vinegar of your choice and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How long can I store the slaw in the refrigerator?

You can store the slaw in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Can I freeze the slaw?

Yes, you can freeze the slaw for up to 2 months. Simply transfer the slaw to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer until ready to thaw and serve.

What can I use as a substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?

You can use a different type of mayonnaise, such as vegan mayonnaise or homemade mayonnaise, as a substitute in the dressing. Simply substitute the mayonnaise with the mayonnaise of your choice and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Can I add other ingredients to the slaw?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slaw, such as diced onions or carrots, chopped nuts or seeds, or grated cheese. Simply add the ingredients of your choice to the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How do I know if the slaw is ready to serve?

The slaw is ready to serve when it has chilled in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and the flavors have melded together. You can also taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the slaw ahead of time. Simply prepare the ingredients and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until ready to assemble. Then, combine the ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card