Nitrate & Nitrite Free Smoky Paprika Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
This vibrant slaw is a riot of color and flavor — crisp shredded cabbage and sweet carrots tossed with fresh parsley and green onion, all brought to life by a boldly spiced dressing. The smokiness comes entirely from smoked paprika, with cumin and turmeric rounding things out into something warm, earthy, and genuinely craveable. That matters here because so many store-bought slaws and dressings sneak in cured ingredients or processed flavor additives that can carry hidden nitrates and nitrites — this one is built from scratch with nothing but whole, clean pantry staples. A short rest at room temperature is the secret step: it lets the cabbage soften just enough and gives the dressing time to sink into every strand. The apple cider vinegar and honey create a bright, balanced tang that keeps the whole thing feeling light despite how satisfying it is. A handful of raw pumpkin seeds scattered over the top adds a lovely crunch and a little extra nutrition if you want it. It works beautifully as a side dish, piled onto tacos, or tucked alongside anything coming off the grill.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
For the slaw
- ½ medium head green cabbage (about 6 cups shredded)
- 3 medium carrots (about 2 cups shredded)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (green tops only)
- ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For serving
- 2 tbsp raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas) (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Place the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced green onion tops and chopped parsley and toss to combine.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and uniform in color.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!