Black Pepper Free Asian-Style Cabbage Slaw
This vibrant slaw is a riot of color and crunch, layering shredded green and red cabbage with julienned carrots, fresh cilantro, and scallion greens into something that looks as good as it tastes. The dressing is where the magic really happens — coconut aminos bring a savory, umami-rich depth, while fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, and honey create a bright, tangy-sweet balance that coats every strand beautifully. A touch of grated ginger and ground turmeric round things out with warmth and a subtle earthiness, no heat-heavy spices required. For anyone navigating a sensitivity to black pepper, this is the kind of bold, flavor-packed dish that proves you're not missing a thing. So many Asian-inspired dressings and store-bought slaws lean heavily on pepper for their kick, but this one builds complexity through citrus, fermented notes, and fresh aromatics instead. Letting the slaw rest for ten minutes before serving is a small step that makes a real difference — the cabbage softens just enough to soak up all that dressing without losing its satisfying bite. Finish it with fresh mint and a squeeze of lime for a dish that works beautifully as a side, a topping for tacos, or a light lunch all on its own.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the slaw
- 3 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or coarsely grated
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced (green tops only)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly torn
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp salt, or to taste
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced (optional)
- lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, scallion greens, and cilantro. Toss to distribute evenly.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, melted coconut oil, grated ginger, turmeric, and salt until the honey is fully dissolved and the dressing is smooth.
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