A vibrant and crunchy vegan slaw is the perfect topping for any taco night! This simple recipe uses a handful of fresh ingredients and a creamy, tangy dressing to create a delicious vegan slaw recipe for tacos that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Vegan slaw in a bowl, ready to be added to tacos
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Slaw
This vegan slaw recipe is:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes!
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, everyday ingredients.
- Flavorful: The perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and crunchy.
- Versatile: Delicious on tacos, burritos, salads, and more.
Ingredients for the Best Vegan Slaw
- Cabbage: 1 cup shredded green cabbage and 1 cup shredded red cabbage for the best color and texture.
- Carrots: 1 cup shredded carrots add sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite.
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro adds a refreshing, herbaceous flavor.
Ingredients for the Creamy Vegan Slaw Dressing
- Vegan Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise forms the creamy base of this dressing.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar adds tanginess and balances the richness of the mayo.
- Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Ingredients for vegan slaw arranged on a countertop
How to Make Vegan Slaw for Tacos
This vegan slaw recipe for tacos is incredibly simple to put together. Here’s how:
- Combine the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to coat. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Pro Tip: For a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain before adding to the slaw.
vegan slaw being tossed together in a bowl
Tips for the Best Vegan Slaw:
- Use fresh ingredients: This recipe truly shines when you use the freshest ingredients possible.
- Adjust the tanginess: For a tangier slaw, add an extra tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
- Add some heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.
Serving Your Vegan Slaw
This vegan slaw recipe for tacos is best served chilled. It’s the perfect topping for:
- Tacos: Pile it high on your favorite vegan tacos – try this recipe with vegan pulled pork jackfruit.
- Burritos: Add a generous scoop to your next vegan burrito for added crunch and flavor.
- Salads: Use it to add a burst of flavor and texture to a simple green salad.
Close-up of a vegan taco topped with slaw
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Slaw
Here are some answers to common questions about making vegan slaw:
Can I make vegan slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! This slaw tastes even better after it has had some time to chill in the refrigerator. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance.
What can I substitute for vegan mayonnaise?
If you don’t have vegan mayonnaise on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of cashew cream or a store-bought vegan sour cream alternative.
Can I use different vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables you enjoy. Shredded Brussels sprouts, chopped bell peppers, or even thinly sliced radishes would be delicious additions.
How do I store leftover vegan slaw?
Store any leftover vegan slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What other vegan recipes can I make for a crowd?
This slaw makes the perfect side for so many dishes! Try it with some easy vegan potluck recipes like a vegan potato salad, or alongside some grilled veggie skewers.
The Perfect Vegan Slaw Recipe
This vegan slaw recipe for tacos is a simple, flavorful, and refreshing addition to any meal. With its crunchy texture and bright flavors, it’s sure to be a hit!
