If you’re wondering what kale slaw is, it’s an easy twist on a classic slaw dish, introducing kale to the cabbage mix. As kale is the star of this recipe, make sure you source fresh and firm kale from your local grocery store or market. You’ll need to clean the kale thoroughly as it can often carry dirt hidden in the curls of the leaves, so we’d recommend taking the time to wash it before making your slaw. We’ve suggested using purple cabbage in this recipe, for a traditional take on a slaw dish, but you could try experimenting with other types of cabbage alongside the kale, to vary the dish to your exact flavor preferences. Using purple cabbage brings a bright color pop to the dish, however, which we’ve suggested using in the recipe above.
If you’ve never made slaw before, then you can find out how best to shred cabbage in our guide to different ways to cut cabbage. First, halve and remove the core, then simply slice the halves as thinly as possible to create your shredded cabbage slaw base.
Given the kale slaw benefits from sitting in the fridge prior to serving, this is a handy, time-saving dish to make when hosting friends and family. You can make it before your event and chill it into the fridge for an hour until you’re ready to serve. The longer you can leave it in the fridge prior to serving, the more the flavors will enhance and come together.
Dressing Ideas
In the recipe shared, we’ve kept the kale slaw dressing very straightforward, but there are lots of ways to twist this. Some chefs will opt to add a more indulgent dressing, such as a creamy lemon and garlic sauce, to introduce bright citrus flavors. A mix of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a delicious vinaigrette and incorporates a little sweetness into the slaw.
How to Serve It
Kale slaw is very versatile, and is just as irresistible next to platters of classic barbecue food as it is served on a cozy fall table. For plant-based inspiration, enjoy it alongside quinoa burgers or chickpea tacos, for a feast in the backyard. You can also adapt this basic recipe and create dishes including kale apple slaw by mixing in slices of fresh apple. Chopped pecans and walnuts add extra crunch and are an easy way to garnish your slaw for elevated presentation.
Finish this dish with a sprinkling of fresh parsley or cilantro as the herbs bring contrasting vibrant flavors to the creaminess of the slaw. Sliced scallions are stronger in flavor, but can also be used on the top of your slaw.
If you’re making this dish around Thanksgiving, then you can add a festive touch with dried cranberries. The sweetness of the dried fruit pairs well with the crunchy texture and earthy taste of the kale and brings a new dimension to the dish.
