Celery Cabbage Crunch Slaw

Name: Celery Cabbage Crunch Slaw
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup thinly sliced celery; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Ideas

I often find myself searching for a refreshing side dish that perfectly complements a variety of meals. This Celery Cabbage Crunch Slaw has become a favorite in our home due to its vibrant colors, satisfying crunch, and zesty dressing. The combination of crisp cabbage and crunchy celery, all tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, makes it not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it an ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-02-16T02:45:36.136Z

When I first made this Celery Cabbage Crunch Slaw, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such a delightful dish. I love how the bright colors of the vegetables pop on the plate, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. To enhance the crunch factor, I opted for a mix of finely shredded cabbage and thinly sliced celery, which gives each bite a satisfying experience.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different dressings, but I find that the classic vinegar and oil mixture really lets the natural flavors shine through. Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end ties everything together beautifully, so I highly recommend giving it a try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp, refreshing texture that brings a burst of flavor
A quick, no-cook recipe perfect for any meal
Versatile enough to pair with a variety of dishes

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh vegetables is key to achieving the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch of this slaw. When selecting your cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy, with tightly packed leaves. Crisp celery shouldn’t be limp or discolored; it should offer a nice snap when cut. Freshly shredded carrots add not only sweetness but also a pop of color, enhancing the overall visual appeal.

Don't underestimate the role of red onion. It provides a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the carrots and is essential for balancing flavors. If red onion’s flavor feels too strong for your palate, consider soaking the diced onion in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow its profile before adding it to the slaw.

Dressing Tips for Optimal Flavor

The tangy dressing is a crucial element that brings everything together. When whisking together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper, consider adjusting the sugar based on your taste preference or choosing honey as a natural sweetener. A good dressing should not overpower but rather elevate the fresh ingredients.

I often recommend letting the dressing sit for a few minutes after whisking to allow the flavors to blend. For an added depth of flavor, you can also incorporate a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of garlic powder into the dressing. These additions can enhance the dressing’s complexity without complicating the preparation.

Ingredients

This slaw is not just easy to make but also requires minimal ingredients that you probably already have on hand!

Ingredients

2 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup thinly sliced celery
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have or your taste preferences!

Instructions

Let’s whip up this slaw in no time!

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced celery, shredded carrots, and diced red onion.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Serve

Let the slaw sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy!

This slaw is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a day if needed.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try folding in some chopped herbs like parsley or dill.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This slaw is a great make-ahead option. You can prepare the vegetable mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, I recommend waiting to add the dressing until just before serving to maintain the crunch. The longer the vegetables sit in the dressing, the softer they become, which can alter the desired texture.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container and consume them within two days for the best quality. If the slaw begins to lose its crunch, try stirring in a small handful of fresh cabbage or celery to revitalize it.

Variations and Flavor Boosts

Feel free to get creative with your slaw! For example, adding sliced bell peppers or grated apple can introduce a delightful sweetness and a pop of color. You can also enhance the crunch factor by incorporating other raw vegetables like radishes or jicama, which will add a refreshing bite.

For those looking for a spicy kick, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. Alternatively, if you’re preparing a larger batch for a party, try tossing in some nuts or seeds, like toasted sunflower seeds, for added texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cabbage?

Absolutely! You can use red cabbage or napa cabbage for a different flavor and color.

→ How long can this slaw be stored in the fridge?

It’s best eaten fresh, but it can be stored for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this slaw vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the sugar with a vegan-friendly alternative like maple syrup.

→ What can I serve this slaw with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos.