Are you looking for a delicious and healthy side dish that won't derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further! This low-calorie coleslaw recipe is the perfect accompaniment to any summer barbecue, picnic, or weeknight dinner. It's incredibly refreshing, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. Forget those heavy, creamy coleslaws of the past – this lighter version is bursting with fresh taste and minimal guilt. This recipe is perfect for anyone following healthy meal plans and searching for quick dinner ideas, or simply wanting a delicious homemade cooking experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded (about 1 cup)
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry the cabbage, carrot, and red onion. Thinly slice the cabbage and red onion, and shred the carrot using a grater or food processor. Finely chop the parsley.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can boost the freshness.
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Combine and Chill: Add the sliced cabbage, shredded carrot, and red onion to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to coat evenly. Make sure all the vegetables are well-dressed for optimal flavor.
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Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling step also helps the cabbage soften slightly and enhances the overall texture. For the best taste, it's ideal to let it chill for an hour or longer.
Tips for the Best Low Calorie Coleslaw:
- Choose the right cabbage: Green cabbage is lower in calories than red cabbage.
- Don't overdress: Too much dressing can make the coleslaw soggy. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Get creative with add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or celery. Adding some chopped apple or cranberries provides a nice textural and flavor contrast.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Coleslaw: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.
- Asian-Inspired Coleslaw: Substitute rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar and add a teaspoon of sesame oil to the dressing. Toasted sesame seeds make a great garnish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories per serving
- Fat: Low
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
- Fiber: Good source
This low-calorie coleslaw is a perfect example of healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. It’s a simple recipe that's perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy this refreshing and delicious side dish with your favorite meals! It's a great option for potlucks and family gatherings, too! This is a great recipe to add to your list of easy recipes and best recipes.