Crunchy & Creamy: The Ultimate Savoy Cabbage Slaw Recipes
Savoy cabbage slaw offers a delightful twist on traditional coleslaw. Its tender leaves, slightly sweeter flavor, and beautiful crinkled texture make it a welcome addition to any meal. This versatile dish can be customized to your liking with various dressings and mix-ins, offering a refreshing and healthy alternative to mayonnaise-laden versions. In this article, we’ll explore several delicious Savoy cabbage slaw recipes, complete with detailed instructions and variations, ensuring you’ll find the perfect slaw to complement your next BBQ, potluck, or weeknight dinner.
## Why Savoy Cabbage Slaw? The Benefits and Beyond
Before diving into the recipes, let’s appreciate why Savoy cabbage slaw is such a fantastic choice:
* **Nutrient-Rich:** Savoy cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being.
* **Lower in Calories:** Compared to traditional mayonnaise-based coleslaw, Savoy cabbage slaw can be significantly lower in calories, especially when using lighter dressings.
* **Digestive Health:** The high fiber content promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation.
* **Versatile Flavor:** Savoy cabbage has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with a wide range of ingredients and dressings, from tangy vinaigrettes to creamy yogurt-based sauces.
* **Texture and Appearance:** The crinkled leaves of Savoy cabbage provide a delightful texture and an attractive visual appeal.
* **Year-Round Availability:** Unlike some vegetables, Savoy cabbage is typically available year-round, making it a convenient option for any season.
## Classic Savoy Cabbage Slaw
This recipe provides a solid foundation that you can easily adapt to your taste preferences. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 small Savoy cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* **Dressing:**
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Remove the outer leaves of the Savoy cabbage. Cut the cabbage in half through the core. Place the cut side down and slice thinly crosswise. You can use a knife, mandoline, or food processor with a shredding attachment. Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl.
2. **Add Other Vegetables:** Add the shredded carrots, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with the cabbage.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), and celery seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine and Chill:** Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps soften the cabbage slightly.
5. **Adjust and Serve:** Before serving, taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more vinegar for tanginess, honey for sweetness, or salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Shredding the Cabbage:** For a more delicate slaw, consider massaging the shredded cabbage with a pinch of salt for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients. This helps break down the fibers and soften the cabbage.
* **Sweetness Level:** Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your liking. You can also use other sweeteners, such as agave nectar or stevia.
* **Tanginess:** The apple cider vinegar adds a pleasant tanginess to the slaw. You can substitute it with white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or lemon juice.
* **Creaminess:** If you prefer a creamier slaw, use full-fat mayonnaise or add a tablespoon or two of sour cream or crème fraîche to the dressing.
* **Nuts and Seeds:** Add a handful of toasted pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
* **Dried Fruit:** Dried cranberries or raisins can add a touch of sweetness and chewiness to the slaw.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as dill, chives, or cilantro, to customize the flavor.
## Tangy Apple and Savoy Cabbage Slaw
This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of a Dijon vinaigrette for a refreshing and flavorful slaw.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 small Savoy cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
* 2 medium apples (such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith), cored and julienned or diced
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* **Dressing:**
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage and Apples:** Shred the Savoy cabbage as described in the previous recipe. Core and julienne or dice the apples. It’s best to use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance. Place the shredded cabbage and apples in a large bowl.
2. **Add Red Onion and Parsley:** Add the chopped red onion and parsley to the bowl.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine and Chill:** Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture and toss well to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Adjust and Serve:** Before serving, taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Preventing Apple Browning:** To prevent the apples from browning, toss them with a tablespoon of lemon juice before adding them to the slaw.
* **Apple Varieties:** Experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite combination. Fuji and Honeycrisp apples are sweet and crisp, while Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast.
* **Add-Ins:** Consider adding toasted walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for extra crunch. Dried cranberries or raisins can also add a touch of sweetness.
* **Herb Variations:** Instead of parsley, try using fresh dill, chives, or mint.
## Asian-Inspired Savoy Cabbage Slaw
This recipe features a vibrant Asian-inspired dressing and is perfect as a side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 small Savoy cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
* 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
* **Dressing:**
* 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1 teaspoon grated ginger
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage and Vegetables:** Shred the Savoy cabbage as described in the previous recipes. Shred the carrots and thinly slice the scallions. Chop the fresh cilantro. Place the shredded cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro in a large bowl.
2. **Add Sesame Seeds:** Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the cabbage mixture.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. **Combine and Chill:** Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Adjust and Serve:** Before serving, taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Protein Addition:** Add shredded cooked chicken, grilled shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
* **Vegetable Variations:** Add other Asian-inspired vegetables, such as shredded snow peas, bean sprouts, or edamame.
* **Nut Butter:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter to the dressing for a richer flavor.
* **Lime Juice:** Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra tanginess.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
## Creamy Lemon-Dill Savoy Cabbage Slaw
This recipe offers a refreshing and creamy twist with the bright flavors of lemon and dill.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 small Savoy cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
* 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
* **Dressing:**
* 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
* 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Shred the Savoy cabbage as described in the previous recipes. Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl.
2. **Add Red Onion and Dill:** Add the chopped red onion and fresh dill to the bowl with the cabbage.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine and Chill:** Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Adjust and Serve:** Before serving, taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Yogurt Type:** Use Greek yogurt for a thicker and tangier slaw. You can also use regular yogurt, but it may result in a thinner consistency.
* **Herb Variations:** Experiment with other fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or mint.
* **Garlic:** Add a minced clove of garlic to the dressing for a more pronounced flavor.
* **Cucumber:** Add shredded cucumber for extra freshness.
* **Feta Cheese:** Crumble feta cheese over the slaw just before serving for a salty and tangy addition.
## Spicy Peanut Savoy Cabbage Slaw
This recipe delivers a bold and flavorful slaw with a spicy peanut dressing, perfect for those who enjoy a kick.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 small Savoy cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
* 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
* **Dressing:**
* 3 tablespoons peanut butter
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
* 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Shred the Savoy cabbage, carrots, and red bell pepper. Chop the green onions and cilantro. Place all vegetables in a large bowl.
2. **Add Peanuts:** Add the chopped peanuts to the bowl.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. It should be pourable but still thick enough to coat the slaw.
4. **Combine and Chill:** Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Adjust and Serve:** Before serving, taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more red pepper flakes for more heat, lime juice for more tang, or honey for more sweetness. Serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Peanut Butter Type:** Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother dressing or crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.
* **Nut Alternatives:** If you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
* **Vegetable Additions:** Add shredded snow peas, bean sprouts, or edamame.
* **Tofu:** Add cubed and fried tofu for a heartier slaw.
* **Spice Control:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
## Serving Suggestions for Savoy Cabbage Slaw
Savoy cabbage slaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **BBQs and Cookouts:** Serve slaw alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, chicken, or ribs.
* **Sandwiches and Wraps:** Add slaw to sandwiches and wraps for extra flavor and crunch. It’s especially delicious with pulled pork or chicken sandwiches.
* **Tacos and Burritos:** Use slaw as a topping for tacos and burritos.
* **Fish and Seafood:** Serve slaw with grilled or baked fish, shrimp, or crab cakes.
* **Asian Dishes:** The Asian-inspired slaw is a great accompaniment to stir-fries, noodle dishes, and sushi.
* **Potlucks and Picnics:** Slaw is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to transport and share.
## Storage Tips for Savoy Cabbage Slaw
* **Refrigeration:** Store leftover Savoy cabbage slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the slaw may become slightly softer over time as the dressing continues to break down the cabbage.
* **Dressing Separately:** For best results, store the dressing separately and add it to the cabbage just before serving. This will help prevent the slaw from becoming soggy.
* **Freezing:** Freezing Savoy cabbage slaw is not recommended, as the cabbage will become very soft and watery upon thawing. The dressing may also separate.
## Conclusion
Savoy cabbage slaw is a healthy, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With so many variations to choose from, you’re sure to find a recipe that suits your taste. So, grab a head of Savoy cabbage and get creative in the kitchen! Enjoy the crunchy texture and delightful flavors of this fantastic slaw.