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Mayo-Free Southern Slaw with Mustard

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This mayo-free Southern slaw with mustard is a fresh, crunchy, and tangy side dish that skips the heaviness of mayonnaise. With crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, sharp red onion, and a zesty mustard-vinegar dressing, it’s light, flavorful, and perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a topping for sandwiches.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)

  • 1 cup shredded carrots

  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (or spicy brown mustard for stronger flavor)

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for creaminess without mayo)

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  • Shred the vegetables: Thinly slice the green cabbage with a mandoline or sharp knife. Shred the carrots and slice the red onion. Place everything in a large mixing bowl.

  • Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil. Add celery seed, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

  • Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss well with tongs until everything is evenly coated.

  • Chill: Place the slaw in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes. This resting time allows flavors to meld and slightly softens the cabbage.

  • Serve: Toss again before serving. Garnish with celery seed or fresh herbs if desired. Serve cold as a side dish or sandwich topping.

Notes

  • For a vegan option, replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.

  • Purple cabbage can be substituted for green, or use both for extra color.

  • For more heat, increase cayenne or use spicy brown mustard.

  • This slaw holds up well for outdoor gatherings since it contains no mayo.

  • Author: Layla
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes