Nutmeg Free Pesto-Walnut Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
Crunchy, vibrant, and loaded with fresh herb flavor, this slaw is the kind of side dish that quietly steals the show at any table. Two types of cabbage and sweet grated carrot form the base, while a blended basil-walnut dressing does the heavy lifting — bright from lemon juice, rich from olive oil, and deeply savory with just a hint of garlic. Toasting the walnuts before scattering them over the top adds a warm, nutty crunch that makes every bite more interesting. The whole thing comes together without a single spice that could sneak in unwanted warmth or bitterness, so the clean, herby flavors stay front and center. A short rest lets the cabbage soften just enough to soak up all that pesto dressing without losing its satisfying texture. Optional nutritional yeast adds a subtle depth if you want it, and a handful of fresh parsley at the end keeps everything feeling light and garden-fresh. It's the kind of recipe you'll find yourself making on repeat because it's genuinely delicious and completely fuss-free.
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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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