Paraben 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 shredded cabbage and grated carrot form the base, while a blended basil-walnut dressing brings a rich, herby depth that feels far more exciting than a standard vinaigrette. Every ingredient here is whole and recognizable — fresh produce, olive oil, lemon juice, raw walnuts, and real garlic — which is exactly what you want when you're avoiding synthetic preservatives and additives that sneak into so many bottled dressings and pre-made slaws. Making the dressing from scratch in a blender takes about thirty seconds and gives you complete control over what goes in. Toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet before scattering them over the top adds a warm, nutty crunch that makes the whole dish feel intentional and layered. A short rest lets the cabbage soften just enough to soak up all that pesto flavor without losing its satisfying bite. Finish with a handful of fresh parsley and you've got a colorful, crowd-pleasing slaw that's as clean 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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