Cinnamon Free Pesto-Walnut Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
Crunchy, vibrant, and packed with fresh flavor, this slaw is the kind of side dish that steals the show at any table. Two types of cabbage and grated carrot give it serious texture, while the homemade pesto dressing — built from fresh basil, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil — brings a bright, herbaceous punch that bottled dressings simply can't match. Toasted walnuts add a warm, nutty crunch that ties the whole thing together beautifully. For anyone navigating spice sensitivities, this recipe is a breath of fresh air — every ingredient is straightforward and easy to verify, with no hidden blends or seasoning mixes that might sneak in unwanted additions. The nutritional yeast is optional but adds a subtle savory depth if you have it on hand. A short rest after tossing lets the cabbage soften just enough to soak up all that garlicky, lemony dressing without losing its satisfying bite. Finish it with a scatter of fresh parsley and you've got a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
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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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