It was one of those sweltering summer afternoons when I found myself craving something crisp, cool, and invigorating. Enter the Green Goddess Coleslaw, a delightful twist on a classic that brings a universe of flavor without the fuss. This vibrant salad combines the lusciousness of Savoy cabbage with a creamy, herb-filled dressing that sings of freshness. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s not only a breeze to make but also a low-carb gem suitable for any summer gathering—perfect for those of us steering clear of fast food. Imagine serving it alongside juicy grilled meats or as a crowd-pleasing potluck side that’ll leave everyone wondering about your secret. Are you ready to elevate your coleslaw game? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Why Is Green Goddess Coleslaw So Special?
Vibrant Colors: The fresh greens and vibrant herbs create an eye-catching dish, making it a perfect summer side that elevates any table setting.
Bursting with Flavor: With a delicious blend of herbs—like dill and tarragon—this coleslaw takes traditional flavors to a whole new level, ensuring everyone at your table is eagerly digging in.
Quick Prep Time: Ready in just 15 minutes, this refreshing salad is a lifesaver when you’re short on time yet want something homemade and satisfying.
Low-Carb Delight: Ideal for those on a keto or low-carb diet, this recipe provides a guilt-free side option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for potlucks and barbecues, this coleslaw is sure to be a hit with family and friends—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
For more inspiring summer dishes, check out my Fresh Summer Salads that are bound to impress!
Green Goddess Coleslaw Ingredients
For the Slaw
- Savoy Cabbage – Provides a crunchy texture and sweeter flavor than regular cabbage.
- Sweet Onion (e.g., Vidalia) – Adds a mild sweetness to balance the dressing’s tanginess.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Dill, Tarragon, Basil, Chives) – Create that distinctive Green Goddess flavor—always use fresh for the best results.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – Acts as a creamy base, imparting rich flavor.
- Sour Cream – Contributes richness and a tangy kick to the dressing.
- Anchovies or Anchovy Paste – Deepens the flavor complexity; can be omitted for a vegetarian option.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the dressing’s flavors; don’t skip for the best taste!
- Garlic – Adds aromatic depth to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Green Goddess Coleslaw
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a blender, combine tightly packed fresh parsley, dill, tarragon, basil, chives, lemon juice, and garlic. Add mayonnaise and sour cream, then blend until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds. Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper to your liking. The goal is a flavorful, herbaceous dressing that perfectly complements the Green Goddess Coleslaw.
Step 2: Prep the Cabbage and Onions
Remove the outer leaves from the Savoy cabbage to expose the fresh interior. Halve the cabbage, core it, and slice it thinly, creating delicate ribbons that will provide a delightful crunch. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage with thinly sliced sweet onion, ensuring the mixture is well-blended for an even flavor.
Step 3: Mix and Chill the Slaw
Pour the creamy Green Goddess dressing over the cabbage and onion mixture. Toss everything gently to combine until all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. For optimal flavor, adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Cover the bowl and chill the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Green Goddess Coleslaw Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your Green Goddess Coleslaw with these exciting variations that will tickle your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños to the slaw for a zesty heat. Finely slice and mix them in the cabbage blend for a punch that vivifies the dish.
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Creamy Vegan Delight: Use avocado blended with yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a rich, creamy texture without the dairy. It’s luscious and healthy!
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Extra Herb Heaven: Stir in more fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an aromatic boost. The added layers of flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Crunchy Additions: Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for added texture and flavor. These provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
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Fruit Infusion: Incorporate diced apples or pears for a sweet twist on your coleslaw. The natural sweetness will complement the tangy dressing and make it truly refreshing.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in extra lime juice along with the lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor that enhances the overall freshness. This twist adds a delightful zing!
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Cheesy Goodness: For a rich flavor boost, add feta or goat cheese crumbles to the slaw. The creaminess of the cheese takes this salad to a whole new level!
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Herbed Yogurt Base: Swap the mayonnaise for a blend of Greek yogurt and tahini for a dairy-free, lower-calorie dressing, infusing a nutty flavor that complements the fresh herbs.
Don’t forget to explore more delicious summer salads like my Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or Classic Caprese Salad for vibrant options that will make your meal truly unforgettable!
Storage Tips for Green Goddess Coleslaw
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious over time.
Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing Green Goddess Coleslaw, as the texture of the cabbage may become mushy once thawed.
Reheating: If you prefer your coleslaw slightly warmed (though it’s often best served cold), gently toss it in a skillet over low heat for just a minute or two.
Serving Tips: Revitalize any leftover coleslaw by adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice before serving to refresh its vibrant flavors.
Expert Tips for the Best Green Goddess Coleslaw
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Fresh Herbs Matter: Use tightly packed herbs to maximize flavor; they are the heart of the dressing in Green Goddess Coleslaw.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust the dressing according to your taste; different herb strengths can significantly affect the final flavor.
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Cabbage Crunch: Shred cabbage in advance but add the dressing just before serving to keep it crispy and fresh.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to substitute ingredients, but avoid using dried herbs; fresh herbs ensure that the dressing shines.
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Chill for Flavor: Let the coleslaw chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, enhancing your salad’s overall taste.
What to Serve with Tangy Green Goddess Coleslaw?
Elevate your summer meals by pairing this refreshing coleslaw with delightful complements that enhance its vibrant flavors.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky chicken balances the coleslaw’s crunch and creaminess, making for a satisfying, well-rounded meal. The grill marks add a rustic appeal that invites everyone to dig in.
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BBQ Ribs: The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce on slow-cooked ribs harmonizes beautifully with the herbaceous notes of the coleslaw, offering a playful contrast of flavors and textures.
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Baked Salmon: Light and flaky, baked salmon drizzled with lemon pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing, creating a feast that feels both indulgent and healthy.
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Veggie Burgers: Serve alongside a hearty veggie burger for a colorful, plant-based option. The crunchy slaw brings brightness against the savory flavors of the burger.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes beautifully complements the coleslaw’s zest, adding a touch of natural sweetness to your plate.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the coleslaw’s fresh herbal flavors and adds a classy touch to your summer gatherings.
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Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad brings a natural sweetness that contrasts pleasantly with the dressing’s tartness, making your meal feel balanced.
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S’Mores Bars: For dessert, chocolatey, crunchy s’mores bars provide a delightful finish. Their sweetness will round out your summer feast in memorable style!
Each pairing brings something unique to the table, ensuring your Tangy Green Goddess Coleslaw isn’t just a side dish but the star of the show!
Make Ahead Options
These Green Goddess Coleslaw are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts striving to simplify weeknight dinners! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For best quality, slice the Savoy cabbage and sweet onion ahead of time but keep them separate until you’re ready to serve—this will ensure the cabbage stays crunchy. When it’s time to enjoy, simply combine the prepped components with the dressing, adjust seasoning, and let it chill for 30 minutes to meld the flavors. With these steps, you’re assured a delicious, homemade side dish with minimal last-minute effort!
Green Goddess Coleslaw Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for Green Goddess Coleslaw?
Absolutely, I recommend using Savoy cabbage for its unique sweetness and crisp texture. It’s more tender than green cabbage, making it a delightful base for your coleslaw. If you can’t find Savoy, green cabbage is a suitable alternative, but be aware it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
How should I store leftovers of Green Goddess Coleslaw?
Very important! Store your Green Goddess Coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving!
Can I freeze Green Goddess Coleslaw?
I would advise against freezing this coleslaw, as the texture of the cabbage will likely turn mushy once thawed. If you have leftover dressing, however, you can freeze it in ice cube trays for easy use in future salads!
How can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! To make the coleslaw vegetarian, simply omit the anchovies or anchovy paste from the dressing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and the sour cream with buttermilk. This maintains the creaminess while reducing the calories!
What should I do if my dressing is too thick?
If your Green Goddess dressing turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of lemon juice or a tablespoon of water at a time, and blend again until you reach your desired consistency. This keeps your dressing creamy and easy to combine with the slaw.
What can I use instead of fresh herbs?
For the best flavor, always stick with fresh herbs for Green Goddess Coleslaw. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh. Just note that the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant, so be sure to adjust your expectations!
Zesty Green Goddess Coleslaw for Refreshing Summer Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender, combine tightly packed fresh parsley, dill, tarragon, basil, chives, lemon juice, and garlic. Add mayonnaise and sour cream, then blend until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds. Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Remove the outer leaves from the Savoy cabbage to expose the fresh interior. Halve the cabbage, core it, and slice it thinly, creating delicate ribbons. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage with thinly sliced sweet onion.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage and onion mixture. Toss everything gently to combine until all the ingredients are coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
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