Vegan Taco Slaw Recipe

Get ready to add a burst of freshness to your taco night with this vibrant Vegan Taco Slaw! Packed with colorful, crunchy vegetables and zesty flavors, this slaw is the perfect complement to your favorite taco fillings. Imagine the satisfying crunch of grated broccoli stems, carrots, and purple cabbage, all tossed together with the tangy brightness of lime juice and the savory kick of minced garlic.

With diced jalapeños adding just the right amount of heat, and a creamy touch from vegan mayonnaise, this slaw transforms any meal into a fiesta of flavor. Whether you’re loading it onto walnut taco meat, enhancing black bean tacos, or serving it alongside crispy vegan fish tacos, this slaw is versatile enough to elevate any dish.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, this Vegan Taco Slaw is not just a side dish—it’s the crunchy, tangy star that your tacos have been missing. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this deliciously refreshing recipe that’s sure to impress at your next taco night!

Ingredients

• 3 cups grated broccoli stems, carrots, and purple cabbage
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jalapeño peppers, diced (adjust based on heat preference)
• 2 green onions, diced
• 1 cup vegan mayonnaise (like Just Mayo or Hellmann’s vegan mayo)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon agave syrup (optional)
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the grated broccoli stems, carrots, and cabbage.
2. Add Flavorings: Stir in the lime juice, minced garlic, diced jalapeños, diced green onions, vegan mayonnaise, salt, agave syrup, and chopped cilantro.
3. Mix Well: Toss all the ingredients together until evenly coated.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled on tacos or as a side dish.

Serving Suggestions

This slaw pairs beautifully with various taco fillings:

• Top it on walnut taco meat in hard shell tacos.
• Use it as a crunchy topping for black bean tacos mixed with salsa.
• Serve it alongside vegan fish tacos for a refreshing contrast.

Variations

Feel free to customize your slaw:

• Substitute or add other crunchy veggies like shredded carrots or radishes.
• For a lighter version, omit the mayo and use mashed avocado mixed with lime juice instead.

This slaw is not only quick to prepare but also stays fresh in the fridge for several days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings or meal prep. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful vegan taco slaw!

Here are some ideas and answers to your questions about enhancing a vegan taco slaw:

Additional Vegetables for Vegan Taco Slaw

You can add a variety of vegetables to your vegan taco slaw for extra flavor and texture:

• Bell Peppers: Add color and sweetness; red, yellow, or orange varieties work well.
• Carrots: Shredded or julienned for crunch and sweetness.
• Radishes: Thinly sliced for a peppery bite.
• Cucumber: Adds freshness and crunch.
• Sugar Snap Peas: For a sweet, crisp addition.
• Corn Kernels: Fresh or canned for sweetness and texture.
• Green Onions: For an oniony flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs to enhance flavor.

Types of Cabbage

You can definitely use different types of cabbage in your slaw:

• Savoy Cabbage: Has a more delicate flavor and tender leaves, making it a good choice if you prefer a milder taste.
• Napa Cabbage: Offers a sweeter, less crunchy alternative that works well in slaws and adds a unique texture.
• Red Cabbage: Provides vibrant color and a slightly peppery flavor but be mindful that it can bleed into other ingredients.

Making Slaw Spicy Without Jalapeños

If you want to add heat without using jalapeños, consider these alternatives:

• Serrano Peppers: These are spicier than jalapeños; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Add to taste for a more subtle heat.
• Hot Sauce: A few dashes can provide heat without altering the slaw’s texture significantly.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: Finely chop and mix in for smoky heat.

Substitutes for Vegan Mayo

If you’re looking for alternatives to vegan mayo in your taco slaw, try:

• Avocado: Mashed or pureed avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with lemon juice and water for a creamy dressing.
• Tahini: Provides a nutty flavor and creamy texture; mix with lemon juice and garlic for added flavor.
• Silken Tofu: Blend until smooth for a protein-rich alternative.

Preparing Slaw Ahead of Time

Yes, you can prepare the slaw ahead of time! It’s best to make it at least a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. However, if you’re making it more than a day in advance, consider adding delicate ingredients like herbs just before serving to keep them fresh. Store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for 3-4 days. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.