Legume Free Pesto-Walnut Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
Crunchy, vibrant, and packed with fresh flavor, this slaw is the kind of side dish that quietly steals the show at any table. Two kinds of cabbage and sweet grated carrot form the base, while a blender pesto made with fresh basil, lemon juice, garlic, and walnuts does all the heavy lifting in the flavor department. Because the dressing skips beans, lentils, chickpeas, and any legume-derived ingredients entirely, it's a genuinely worry-free option for anyone navigating that restriction. Toasting the walnuts before scattering them over the top adds a warm, nutty crunch that plays beautifully against the bright, herby dressing. A short rest lets the cabbage soften just enough to soak up every bit of that pesto coating without losing its satisfying texture. It comes together in one bowl with minimal cleanup, making it as practical as it is delicious. Finish with a handful of fresh parsley if you have it — it's a small touch that makes the whole dish feel a little more special.
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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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