Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. For the freshest texture, keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving. Once mixed, it’s best enjoyed within 2 days.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely. Use dairy-free sour cream and swap the honey for maple syrup.

What type of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is classic because it stays crunchy and mild. You can also mix in purple cabbage for extra color.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Definitely. Store-bought coleslaw mix makes this recipe even faster on busy days.

Is this Simple Easy Cabbage and Carrot Salad spicy?

Not at all. It’s creamy, slightly tangy, and lightly sweet. If you want heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy mustard.

How do I keep the salad crunchy?

Avoid overdressing it too early. If making ahead, store the dressing separately until serving time.

Simple Easy Cabbage and Carrot Salad: 4 Crunchy Wins

Description

This Simple Easy Cabbage and Carrot Salad is fresh, crunchy, and tossed in a creamy mustard dressing with dill and sesame seeds. Perfect as a quick side dish, light lunch, or topping for tacos and sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

4 cups shredded green cabbage
2 cups julienned carrots
1/3 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/3 cup sliced onion
2 tbsp black sesame seeds

Dressing

2 tbsp creamy mustard (Dijon or yellow)
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
2 tbsp sour cream (or dairy-free sour cream)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/3 tsp garlic powder

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Thinly slice the cabbage using a knife or mandoline slicer.
Peel and julienne the carrots using a knife or julienne peeler.
Slice the onion and chop the fresh dill.
In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, dill, onion, and sesame seeds.
In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and garlic powder until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for even more flavor.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

For the best crunch, keep the dressing separate until serving.

Add toasted almonds, walnuts, or raisins for extra texture and flavor.

For a vegan version, use maple syrup and dairy-free sour cream.

Spicy brown mustard works great if you want a stronger mustard flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 340mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg