10 Unusual Coleslaw Recipes That Will Transform Your Salad Game!

Coleslaw, the classic salad dish often associated with picnics and barbecues, has evolved far beyond the traditional creamy cabbage blend. Check out these unusual coleslaw recipes. While the classic versions have their charm, there are countless innovative recipes that incorporate unexpected ingredients, flavors, and textures to create distinctive dishes that can truly elevate any meal. Here are ten unusual coleslaw recipes that will not only bring excitement to the table but may also become a new favorite!

1. Tropical Pineapple Coleslaw

Combine crunchy cabbage with juicy pineapple chunks for a sweet twist on your classic slaw. Toss in a dash of lime juice and coconut flakes for a truly summery feel. This tropical coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled shrimp or fish tacos, adding a refreshing element to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, pineapple chunks, cilantro, and green onions.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, coconut milk, honey, and grated ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, add the toasted coconut flakes and toss gently.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 6-8 

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 8 servings)	Amount
Calories	120
Total Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	12g
Protein	2g
Sodium	25mg
Vitamin C	45mg
Calcium	40mg
Iron	0.5mg

2. Spicy Jicama Slaw

Forget traditional cabbages; use jicama as your base for a crunchy, low-calorie option. Add sliced radishes and toss everything in a spicy lime dressing with chili powder for an exciting, refreshing dish that wakes up the palate. This slaw is perfect for topping fish tacos or serving alongside any smoky barbecue dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups peeled and julienned jicama
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced radishes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the julienned jicama, sliced radishes, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
3. Pour the dressing over the jicama mixture and toss well to combine.
4. If using, add the minced jalapeño and mix thoroughly.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Toss again before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 4-6 as a side dish

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 6 servings)	Amount
Calories	~45
Total Fat	2g
Carbohydrates	7g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	2g
Protein	1g
Sodium	100mg

3. Beet and Apple Slaw

Stun your guests with the vibrant colors of this beet and apple coleslaw. Shredded beets add earthiness and a splash of bright color, while tart apples introduce a delightful crunch and sweetness. Dress this with a simple apple cider vinaigrette for a nutrient-packed side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats.

Ingredients:

• 2 large raw beets, peeled and grated
• 2 Granny Smith apples, cored and cut into matchsticks
• 2 cups finely sliced red cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine grated beets, apple matchsticks, sliced red cabbage, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the beet and apple mixture and toss well to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8 as a side dish

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 8 servings)	Amount
Calories	~120
Total Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	14g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	9g
Protein	2g

4. Asian-Inspired Sesame Slaw

Transform your coleslaw with an Asian flair by using Napa cabbage, shredded carrots, and snow peas. Toss everything together with a sesame oil dressing, incorporating ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of rice vinegar. Add toasted sesame seeds for texture and flavor, creating a refreshing accompaniment to grilled teriyaki chicken.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups Napa cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup snow peas, trimmed and sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the Napa cabbage, shredded carrots, snow peas, green onions, and cilantro.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and toss gently again.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 6-8 as a side dish

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 8 servings)	Amount
Calories	~80
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	1g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	2g
Protein	2g
Sodium	200mg

5. Mexican Street Corn Slaw

Inspired by the popular street food, this slaw incorporates charred corn, cilantro, and cotija cheese mixed with a creamy lime dressing infused with chili powder. This unique twist combines the flavors of a classic elote and coleslaw, making it a spectacular addition to any taco night or summer barbecue.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn, grilled or charred)
• 1 cup shredded green cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)

For the dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the charred corn, shredded cabbage, cilantro, cotija cheese, red onion, and jalapeño (if using).
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss well to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 6-8 as a side dish

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 8 servings)	Amount
Calories	~150
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	14g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	2g
Protein	4g
Sodium	200mg

6. Savory Kale and Quinoa Slaw

For a nutrient-dense option, incorporate shredded kale and cooked quinoa. Toss with a lemon vinaigrette and scatter in some dried cranberries and sunflower seeds for added craunch. This slaw is not just healthy; it’s also fulfilling and can serve as a light meal on its own or a hearty side.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups kale, stems removed and shredded
• 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the lemon vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded kale, cooked quinoa, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and parsley (if using).
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the kale mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the kale to soften slightly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 4-6 as a side dish or light meal

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 6 servings)	Amount
Calories	~150
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	1g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	3g
Protein	4g
Sodium	50mg

7. Caribbean Mango Slaw

Bring Caribbean vibes to your table with this mango slaw. Combine shredded cabbage, diced mango, and red bell pepper, then dress with lime juice and a hint of cilantro. This brightly colored dish is perfect for summer gatherings and complements grilled meats excellently.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced mangoes, diced red bell pepper, chopped cilantro, and green onions.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss well to combine.
4. Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 6-8 as a side dish

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 8 servings)	Amount
Calories	~90
Total Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	0.5g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	6g
Protein	1g
Sodium	30mg

8. Creamy Avocado Slaw

Swap traditional mayonnaise for creamy avocado to make a rich, healthy dressing. Combine with shredded cabbage and carrot for a smooth slaw that is full of flavor and healthier fat. This avocado slaw works beautifully as a side for grilled chicken or as a filling for tacos.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, mash the avocado until smooth. Add lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined to create a creamy dressing.
3. Pour the avocado dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss well to coat.
4. Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Let the slaw sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 4-6 as a side dish

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 6 servings)	Amount
Calories	~120
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	1g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fiber	5g
Sugar	1g
Protein	2g
Sodium	20mg

9. Curried Coleslaw

Give your coleslaw a warm twist by adding curry powder to your dressing. Mix green cabbage with shredded carrots and raisins, then dress with a tangy blend of mayonnaise, yogurt, and curry paste. This unique flavor profile pairs incredibly well with barbecued meats or spicy dishes.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

For the dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, raisins, and chopped green onions.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, curry powder, apple cider vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 6-8 as a side dish

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 8 servings)	Amount
Calories	~150
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	1g
Carbohydrates	16g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	5g
Protein	2g
Sodium	150mg

10. Chickpea and Broccoli Slaw

Integrate protein and fiber by adding chickpeas to your coleslaw mix. Combine shredded broccoli, carrots, and chickpeas with a lemon-tahini dressing for a fresh version of slaw that packs a nutritional punch. This dish is perfect served alongside grilled meats or as a hearty lunch option.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded broccoli (or broccoli slaw mix)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the lemon-tahini dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water to thin (as needed)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded broccoli, shredded carrots, chickpeas, red onion, and parsley (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add water a little at a time until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss well to combine.
4. Let the slaw sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 4-6 as a side dish or hearty lunch option

Nutritional Info (per serving, assuming 6 servings)	Amount
Calories	~130
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	1g
Carbohydrates	14g
Fiber	5g
Sugar	2g
Protein	5g
Sodium	200mg

Conclusion

Unusual coleslaw recipes open up a world of possibilities beyond the traditional versions we’re all accustomed to. By exploring different ingredients and flavor profiles, you can create a vibrant accompaniment to your meals that not only enhances the dining experience but also impresses your guests. So, get adventurous in the kitchen, and try out these unique slaw recipes at your next gathering!