Quick Cabbage & Carrot Slaw Recipe – Lemon Mayonnaise Dressing

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Quick Cabbage & Carrot Slaw Recipe – Lemon Mayonnaise Dressing

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for a quick, fresh side dish that adds a little zing to your meal. This Cabbage & Carrot Slaw with a bright lemon-mayonnaise dressing is exactly that! It’s seriously easy to throw together, and it’s perfect alongside everything from grilled meats to spicy Indian curries. I first made this when I needed something fast to go with some tandoori chicken, and it’s been a staple ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slaw is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly quick – ready in just 15 minutes! The combination of crunchy cabbage and sweet carrots with that creamy, tangy dressing is just chef’s kiss. Plus, it’s super versatile. You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste, and it’s a great way to add some extra veggies to your plate.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful slaw:

• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• ½ cup shredded carrot
• ¼ – ½ cup spring onions, chopped (depending on how much you love them!)
• ½ cup Mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt, as required
• Black pepper, as required

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec. A few little things can make a big difference!

Cabbage Varieties for Slaw (Green, Red, Napa)

You can really use any cabbage you like for this. Green cabbage is classic and gives a nice, crisp texture. Red cabbage adds a beautiful color and slightly more peppery flavor. Napa cabbage is milder and a bit more delicate. Feel free to experiment!

Mayonnaise Options: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

I often use store-bought mayonnaise to save time, but homemade is amazing if you’re feeling ambitious. A good quality full-fat mayonnaise will give you the best flavor and texture.

The Zest of Lemon: Choosing the Right Lemons

Fresh lemon juice is key here! Look for lemons that feel heavy for their size – that means they’re juicy. A little zest can also add a lovely aroma, but it’s not essential.

Spring Onion vs. Scallions: What’s the Difference?

Don’t stress about this one – they’re the same thing! Both spring onions and scallions will work perfectly in this recipe.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, rinse half a small cabbage, remove any outer leaves that look a little sad, and shred it thinly. You want about 2 cups of shredded cabbage.
2. Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is smooth and creamy.
3. Now, add the shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, and chopped spring onions to the dressing.
4. Toss everything together really well, making sure the cabbage and carrots are nicely coated in the dressing.
5. Serve immediately, or pop it in the fridge for later. A little garnish of extra spring onion greens looks pretty, if you’re feeling fancy!

Expert Tips

Want to take your slaw game to the next level? Here are a few of my go-to tricks:

Achieving the Perfect Slaw Texture

Don’t overmix! You want the cabbage to be coated in the dressing, but you don’t want it to become mushy.

Making Ahead & Keeping it Crisp

You can definitely make this slaw ahead of time. Just be aware that it will soften as it sits. To help keep it crisp, add the dressing right before serving.

Adjusting the Dressing Consistency

If the dressing is too thick, add a teaspoon of water or lemon juice at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for all sorts of fun variations!

Vegan Cabbage Slaw

Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo – there are some really good ones available now!

Gluten-Free Option

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the label on your mayonnaise to be sure.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Chili Flakes)

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the dressing. My friend, Priya, loves to add a finely chopped green chili for a real kick!

Festival Adaptation: Serving with Chaat Masala for a Festive Twist

For a truly Indian-inspired slaw, sprinkle a little chaat masala over the top before serving. It adds a tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor that’s incredible.

Serving Suggestions

This slaw is so versatile! Here are a few ideas:

• Alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pork.
• As a side dish with Indian curries and tandoori dishes.
• In tacos or wraps for a fresh, crunchy element.
• As a topping for burgers or sandwiches.

Storage Instructions

Leftover slaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that it will soften over time.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What type of cabbage is best for slaw?

Honestly, any kind! Green cabbage is classic, red cabbage adds color, and Napa cabbage is milder.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time? If so, how long will it stay fresh?

Yes, you can! It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. The texture will soften over time.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise? What adjustments should I make?

You can! Greek yogurt will make the slaw tangier and lighter. You might need to add a little extra sugar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

How can I prevent the slaw from becoming soggy?

Don’t overmix, and add the dressing right before serving.

Is it possible to add other vegetables to this slaw? What would you recommend?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even some chopped cilantro would be delicious.

What’s the best way to shred the cabbage thinly?

A mandoline slicer is great if you have one. Otherwise, just use a sharp knife and slice it as thinly as you can!

Enjoy! I hope you love this quick and easy Cabbage & Carrot Slaw as much as I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!