Low Sugar Pesto-Walnut Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
This slaw is a serious upgrade from the creamy, sugar-laden versions you find at cookouts and deli counters. Instead of a sweet, mayo-heavy dressing, it leans on a bright, blender pesto made from fresh basil, raw walnuts, olive oil, and lemon juice — bold, herby, and completely free of added sweeteners. The combination of green and red cabbage with grated carrots gives you a gorgeous mix of color and crunch, while the toasted walnuts scattered on top add a warm, nutty depth that makes every bite more interesting. Letting the slaw rest for a few minutes before serving is a small but smart step — it softens the cabbage just enough to make the whole thing feel cohesive rather than raw and sharp. Nutritional yeast is an optional addition to the dressing that nudges it toward a more savory, almost cheesy finish without any dairy. It works beautifully as a side dish, piled onto grain bowls, or tucked into wraps when you want something fresh and satisfying. The whole thing comes together with pantry staples and a blender, making it as practical as it is delicious.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the slaw
- 3 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly shredded
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and coarsely grated
- 3 scallions (green tops only), thinly sliced
- ½ cup raw walnuts
For the dressing
- ⅓ cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- ¼ cup raw walnuts
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional)
For serving
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Toast the 1/2 cup raw walnuts in a dry small skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden, about 4–5 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer to a cutting board, let cool for 2 minutes, then roughly chop and set aside.
- 2
Make the pesto dressing: combine the basil, 1/4 cup raw walnuts, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast (if using) in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides once, about 30 seconds.
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