Pescatarian 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 types of cabbage and grated carrot form the base, but the real star is the blended pesto dressing — a bright, garlicky mix of fresh basil, lemon juice, olive oil, and raw walnuts that coats every shred beautifully. Toasting the walnuts before scattering them on top adds a warm, nutty depth that makes the whole bowl feel more substantial than your average slaw. A short rest after tossing lets the cabbage soften just enough to soak up all that herby dressing without losing its satisfying crunch. The optional nutritional yeast in the dressing adds a subtle savory note that rounds everything out without any dairy. It works effortlessly as a pescatarian-friendly side alongside grilled fish or tucked into a wrap, and it comes together with nothing more than a blender and a skillet. Fresh parsley on top is a small touch that makes it look genuinely impressive.
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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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