Cava Cabbage Slaw Recipe

Crisp, colorful, and bursting with flavor, CAVA cabbage slaw brings a refreshing twist to any meal. This copycat CAVA cabbage slaw recipe perfectly balances creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes, recreating that addictive taste you love from the restaurant.

Unlike heavy, mayo-laden coleslaws, this Asian-inspired cabbage slaw recipe stays light and satisfying, thanks to a mix of vibrant vegetables and a simple technique that ensures a signature crunch.

Ideal for meal prepping or elevating your next barbecue, this creamy coleslaw recipe is easy to make and quickly becomes a go-to side dish that impresses every time.

What Does It Taste Like?

This creamy coleslaw recipe easy to love features a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. The dressing offers a tangy buttermilk base with just enough sweetness to balance the apple cider vinegar’s bright acidity.

Each bite delivers satisfying crunch from fresh green and red cabbage, sweet notes from julienned carrots, and a subtle onion bite that’s never overpowering. The celery seed adds an earthy, slightly peppery undertone that’s classic in traditional coleslaw but elevated here.

What sets this CAVA recipe apart is its lightness the vegetables stay crisp rather than soggy, and the dressing coats without drowning. It’s refreshing, vibrant, and incredibly moreish.

Cava Cabbage Slaw Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Slaw Vegetables:

• 1 head green cabbage (cored and thinly shredded)
• ¼ head red cabbage (cored and thinly shredded)
• 3 medium carrots (peeled and julienned or grated)
• ½ yellow onion (or white, sweet, or red onion, thinly sliced)
• 3 green onions (thinly sliced, some reserved for garnish)

The Creamy Dressing:

• 1 to 1½ cups mayonnaise
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or distilled white vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ to 1 teaspoon celery seed

For Moisture Control (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons salt (for drawing out excess moisture)

For Garnish:

• Additional sliced green onions

Kitchen Utensils You’ll Need

• Mandoline slicer (optional but recommended)
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Large cutting board
• Vegetable peeler
• Large colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium bowl (for dressing)
• Whisk
• Paper towels or salad spinner
• Tongs or serving forks
• Serving bowl

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Salting Time (Optional): 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes (25 minutes if skipping salting step)
Servings: 8-10 servings
Difficulty: Easy

Cava Cabbage Slaw Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Green Cabbage

Cut the green cabbage in half through the core. Remove the tough core by cutting a V-shape around it. Quarter the cabbage into manageable pieces. Using a mandoline set to a low setting (approximately 1.5) or a sharp knife, thinly shred the cabbage into fine ribbons. When using a mandoline, stop when it feels unsafe to continue and finish the remaining piece with a knife.

Step 2: Prepare the Red Cabbage

Repeat the same process with the red cabbage, but only use one quarter (about ¼ head). The red cabbage adds beautiful color contrast to your copycat CAVA cabbage slaw recipe without overwhelming the green cabbage’s milder flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Carrots and Onions

Peel the carrots and julienne them using a mandoline’s julienne blade attachment, or grate them using a box grater for a finer texture. Thinly slice the yellow onion using your mandoline or knife aim for translucent, paper-thin slices. Thinly slice the green onions, setting aside a small handful for garnish later.

Step 4: Draw Out Excess Moisture (Optional but Recommended)

Place all the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots in a large colander set over a bowl. Generously season with approximately 2 tablespoons of salt and toss everything together thoroughly. Let the vegetables sit for 30 minutes this draws out excess moisture that would otherwise dilute your dressing and make the slaw watery. After 30 minutes, discard the liquid that’s collected in the bowl below.

Step 5: Dry the Vegetables

Pat the salted vegetables completely dry using paper towels, or spin them in a salad spinner to remove all surface moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that signature CAVA crunch in your best creamy coleslaw recipe.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated. The dressing should be pourable but still thick enough to coat the vegetables. Refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble the slaw.

Step 7: Season and Combine

Transfer all your prepared vegetables (cabbage, carrots, yellow onion, and most of the green onions) to a large mixing bowl. Lightly season with additional salt, pepper, and a pinch of celery seed. If you completed the salting step earlier, go easy on the salt here.

Step 8: Dress the Slaw

Here’s a pro tip from the best Asian cabbage slaw recipe techniques: pour the dressing around the outer edge of the bowl rather than dumping it in the center. This ensures even distribution when you toss. Using tongs, two forks, or clean hands, toss everything together thoroughly until every strand of cabbage and carrot is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 9: Taste and Adjust

Taste your coleslaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. Want more tang? Add a splash more vinegar. Need sweetness? A pinch more sugar. This is your chance to customize this recipe for CAVA cabbage slaw to your exact preferences.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the dressed slaw to your serving bowl. Add a few extra tablespoons of dressing on top for visual appeal and moisture. Sprinkle with the reserved sliced green onions for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Step 11: Refresh If Needed

If the slaw sits for 30-45 minutes and you notice liquid collecting at the bottom of the bowl, simply drain it off and re-toss the slaw with a little additional dressing to refresh it.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Mediterranean Bowl Base

Use this CAVA cabbage slaw recipe ingredients exactly as written to create an authentic Mediterranean grain bowl. Layer it over seasoned rice or quinoa, add grilled chicken or falafel, hummus, cucumber-tomato salad, and a drizzle of tahini sauce. The coleslaw’s creamy tang perfectly complements the rich, savory flavors of Mediterranean cuisine.

2. Taco Tuesday Topping

Transform taco night by using this creamy coleslaw recipe easy preparation as a topping for fish tacos, carnitas, or grilled shrimp tacos. The crisp texture and tangy dressing cut through rich meats beautifully. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the dressing before tossing.

3. Asian Fusion Twist

Give this Asian cabbage slaw recipe even more Asian-inspired flair by adding ingredients to the base: toss in ½ cup of edamame, 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds, and a handful of crispy wonton strips. Swap half the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and a splash of rice vinegar to the dressing for an extra layer of umami.

4. Mediterranean Mezze Balance

Serve fresh bowls where Cava Cabbage Slaw Recipe adds crunch beside creamy cava hummus, creating a bright Mediterranean plate ideal for lunches, mezze spreads, or light dinners with balanced flavor.

5. BBQ Sandwich Sidekick

This best creamy coleslaw recipe is the perfect accompaniment to pulled pork sandwiches, brisket, or grilled burgers. The cool, crunchy slaw provides textural contrast to tender, smoky meats. You can even pile it directly onto sandwiches for added crunch and moisture Southern BBQ joints have been doing this for generations for good reason.

6. Herb-Cooled Grill Plate

This plate pairs grilled mains with Cabbage Slaw Recipe lightly tossed in Cava Yogurt Dill Dressing, offering cool herbs, gentle tang, and refreshing contrast that lifts rich proteins without overpowering.

7. Protein-Packed Addition

Boost this copycat CAVA cabbage slaw recipe into a complete meal by adding protein directly to the bowl. Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, canned chickpeas, or cubed tofu. Add some chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for healthy fats and extra crunch, and you’ve got a satisfying lunch that holds up well for meal prep.

8. Comfort Grain Foundation

Create a hearty platter combining carnivore mashed potatoes and cava saffron rice, delivering creamy comfort and aromatic warmth that anchor meals beautifully while sides and sauces add freshness balance depth.

9. Spicy Sriracha Version

For heat lovers, whisk 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or gochujang into the creamy dressing before tossing with vegetables. The spicy-sweet-tangy combination creates an addictive flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, rice bowls, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Garnish with cilantro instead of green onions for a fresh herbal note.

10. Lighter Yogurt-Based Alternative

Create a lighter version of this recipe for CAVA cabbage slaw by replacing half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream. This modification reduces calories and fat while adding protein and maintaining that signature creaminess. The tanginess of yogurt also enhances the buttermilk’s flavor, creating an even brighter, more refreshing slaw that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

Essential Tips for the Perfect Coleslaw

1. Master the Mandoline for Consistency

Investing in a quality mandoline slicer is game-changing for this best creamy coleslaw recipe. Uniformly thin vegetables not only look more professional but also absorb dressing more evenly and create a better mouthfeel. Set your mandoline to 1.5mm for ideal thickness. Always use the hand guard and never push vegetables too close to the blade finish the last inch or two with a knife to protect your fingers.

2. Don’t Skip the Salting Step

While the 30-minute salting process is listed as optional, it’s truly the secret to preventing watery coleslaw. Cabbage contains significant moisture that will leach out over time, diluting your carefully crafted dressing. Salting draws out this moisture before you dress the slaw, ensuring it stays crisp and the flavors remain concentrated. If you’re short on time, at minimum give it 15 minutes it makes a noticeable difference.

3. Adjust Dressing Consistency to Your Preference

The beauty of this creamy coleslaw recipe easy approach is its flexibility. If you prefer a thicker, clingier dressing, use less buttermilk or add an extra dollop of mayonnaise. For a lighter, more pourable dressing that creates pools at the bottom of the bowl (more like restaurant-style slaw), add extra buttermilk or a splash of regular milk. Remember, you can always add more dressing, but you can’t take it away.

4. Dress Your Slaw at the Right Time

For maximum crunch and the freshest flavor, dress your Asian cabbage slaw recipe vegetables just 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld without the vegetables becoming soggy. However, if you’re meal prepping, store the vegetables and dressing separately in airtight containers. The prepped vegetables will keep for 3-4 days, and you can dress individual portions as needed throughout the week.

5. Temperature Matters

Cold vegetables + cold dressing = the most refreshing coleslaw. After drying your salted vegetables, pop them back in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before dressing. Keep your prepared dressing chilled as well. The temperature contrast makes this copycat CAVA cabbage slaw recipe even more refreshing, especially during hot summer months or when serving alongside warm grilled foods.

6. Customize Your Cabbage Ratio

While this recipe calls for mostly green cabbage with a small amount of red cabbage for color, feel free to adjust based on preference and availability. Green cabbage offers a milder, slightly sweeter flavor, while red cabbage has a peppery bite and tougher texture. Napa cabbage can be substituted for some or all of the green cabbage for an even more tender, delicate slaw with an authentic Asian twist.

7. Revive Leftover Slaw Like a Pro

If your CAVA recipe coleslaw has been sitting in the fridge and seems a bit limp or watery, don’t despair. Drain off any accumulated liquid at the bottom of the container. Give the slaw a good toss to redistribute the remaining dressing. Add 2-3 tablespoons of fresh dressing and some newly sliced green onions as garnish. A handful of something crunchy like toasted nuts, seeds, or even crushed tortilla chips added just before serving will restore textural interest and make day-old slaw taste freshly made.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store this cabbage slaw recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The slaw is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. For longest freshness and optimal texture, store undressed vegetables and dressing separately for up to 5 days, combining only what you’ll eat within a day or two.

Common Queries and FAQs

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Cava Cabbage Slaw Recipe that people often ask.

Can I make this CAVA cabbage slaw recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! For best results, prep all your vegetables and make the dressing up to 2 days ahead, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine them 15-30 minutes before serving for optimal crunch. If you must dress it fully ahead of time, it will hold reasonably well for up to 24 hours, though the texture won’t be quite as crisp as freshly dressed slaw.

What’s the best substitute for buttermilk in this creamy coleslaw recipe?

If you don’t have buttermilk, create a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ½ cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly before using. Alternatively, thin Greek yogurt or sour cream with a little milk to achieve a similar consistency and tangy flavor profile.

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix for this recipe?

While convenient, pre-shredded coleslaw mixes from the grocery store won’t deliver the same quality as this best creamy coleslaw recipe deserves. Bagged mixes are typically cut too thick, may be dried out, and often contain preservatives that affect flavor. If you must use a bagged mix in a pinch, choose the freshest package available, add freshly grated carrots and sliced green onions, and definitely complete the salting step to improve texture.

Why is my coleslaw watery after a few hours?

Cabbage naturally releases moisture over time, especially when salt or acidic dressing is added. This is why the optional salting step is so crucial it removes excess moisture before dressing. If your dressed slaw becomes watery, drain the liquid, add a few tablespoons of fresh dressing, and toss again. To prevent this, always dress slaw close to serving time, or keep vegetables and dressing separate until needed.

How can I make this copycat CAVA cabbage slaw recipe healthier?

Replace half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt to reduce calories and fat while adding protein. Use a natural sweetener like honey instead of sugar. Increase the vegetable variety by adding shredded Brussels sprouts, broccoli slaw, or snap peas. These modifications maintain the creamy, satisfying texture while boosting nutritional value.

What type of cabbage works best for coleslaw?

Green cabbage is the classic choice for its mild flavor, tender texture, and ability to stay crisp when dressed. Red cabbage adds beautiful color but has a slightly tougher texture and peppery taste. Napa cabbage offers a more delicate, tender texture perfect for Asian-inspired slaws but wilts faster. For this Asian cabbage slaw recipe, a combination of mostly green with some red cabbage provides the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

Can I add other vegetables to this CAVA recipe?

Definitely! This base recipe is very versatile. Try adding thinly sliced bell peppers (any color), shredded Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced snap peas, radishes for peppery crunch, or even julienned apple for sweetness. Corn kernels, either raw or roasted, add pops of sweetness. Just remember that watery vegetables like cucumber should be added just before serving to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy.

How do I prevent my coleslaw from being too mayonnaise-heavy?

The key is proper dressing distribution and using just enough to coat without drowning. Start with about ¾ of your prepared dressing, toss thoroughly, then add more gradually as needed. The vegetables should be evenly coated with a light, glossy sheen rather than sitting in a pool of dressing. If you accidentally over-dress, add more shredded cabbage and carrots to balance it out.

What’s the purpose of celery seed in this recipe for CAVA cabbage slaw?

Celery seed provides the signature coleslaw flavor you recognize from restaurants and delis. It adds a subtle earthy, slightly bitter note with hints of celery and parsley that balances the richness of mayonnaise and sweetness of sugar. While optional, it’s highly recommended for authentic coleslaw taste. If you don’t have celery seed, a tiny amount of celery salt can work, but reduce the additional salt in your recipe accordingly.

Is this coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes, this cabbage slaw recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. However, always check your mayonnaise label, as some brands may contain gluten or be processed in facilities with gluten. Most major mayonnaise brands are gluten-free, but verification is important for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

How do I keep coleslaw from going brown?

Browning typically occurs when vegetables are exposed to air and oxidize. To prevent this, toss your shredded vegetables with a little lemon juice or vinegar immediately after cutting the acid prevents oxidation. Store in airtight containers with minimal air space. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of dressed coleslaw before sealing the container to minimize air contact.

Can I freeze this best creamy coleslaw recipe?

Unfortunately, coleslaw doesn’t freeze well due to its high water content and mayonnaise-based dressing. Both the vegetables and dressing will separate and become watery and unappetizing when thawed. Coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh or within 3 days of preparation for optimal quality and food safety.

This copycat CAVA cabbage slaw recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your home kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. The combination of crisp vegetables, creamy tangy dressing, and that signature crunch makes it the best creamy coleslaw recipe for any occasion from weeknight dinners to backyard barbecues.

Whether you’re recreating your favorite CAVA bowl or simply craving a refreshing side dish, this Asian cabbage slaw recipe delivers every time. The beauty lies in its versatility and the way it complements virtually any main dish while standing delicious on its own. Give it a try, and this easy coleslaw will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation!

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