Healthy Coleslaw Recipe

This Healthy Coleslaw Recipe delivers crisp crunch, creamy balance, and bright tang in every bite. Greek yogurt dressing comes together in 10 minutes, creating an easy and light but satisfying side.

For years, I thought of coleslaw as something reserved strictly for barbecue—specifically alongside pulled chicken or ribs. Eventually, I realized how limiting that mindset was, especially once I started making lighter, yogurt-based versions like this one.

This healthy coleslaw recipe is a phenomenal side for spicy peach pork chops or tucked into chipotle chorizo tacos. It also balances richer dishes like pork chops with cream of mushroom soup and chicken with shallots beautifully. Add perfect deviled eggs and dinner feels complete!

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Red Cabbage: Crunchy with subtle sweetness; green cabbage works just as well. You can use shredded cabbage, including red or purple cabbage, for quicker prep.
• White Onion: Slice thin so it adds bite without overpowering the slaw.
• Red Bell Pepper: Optional sweetness and color; use more, less, or omit.
• What is a healthy alternative to mayonnaise for coleslaw in this recipe? Greek yogurt (2%) is the creamy base in this recipe; fat-free works if preferred.
• Safflower Oil: Safflower oil is neutral, but olive oil or extra virgin olive oil also work well.
• White Balsamic Vinegar: Mild acidity; rice vinegar or red wine vinegar are good swaps. For a brighter profile, try apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice or lime juice.
• Kosher Salt & Pepper: Season to taste.
• Sesame Seeds: Mild nuttiness; poppy seeds also work.

See the recipe card below for full ingredients and quantities.

Variations on this Coleslaw Dressing

• Make it barbecue-ready. Pair with barbecue pulled chicken for a lighter contrast. Add a drizzle of honey or pure maple syrup for gentle sweetness.
• Turn it into taco slaw. Great inside tacos like chipotle chorizo tacos or vegetarian options from these vegetarian taco recipes. Finish with parsley, dill, green onion, or cilantro for added freshness!
• Go dairy-free. Try my healthy broccoli slaw recipe for a different dressing approach.

Professional Tips

• Slice thin. Aim for cabbage under 1/8 inch for the best texture.
• Use your hands. Gently massaging the slaw helps the dressing coat evenly.
• Rest matters. Chill at least 30 minutes; thicker cuts may need overnight.

How to Make Healthy Coleslaw

Use these instructions to make perfect healthy coleslaw. Further details and measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Step 1: Slice cabbage. Thinly slice the red cabbage lengthwise using a mandoline or sharp knife, aiming for slices under 1/8 inch so they soften quickly. This takes about 3–5 minutes.

A food processor speeds prep, while a box grater works for smaller batches.

Step 2: Slice onion & pepper. Thinly slice the white onion and red bell pepper and add them to the cabbage. About 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Whisk dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, safflower oil, and white balsamic until smooth. About 1 minute.

Step 4: Toss and season. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, season with kosher salt and pepper, and mix—preferably by hand—to gently massage the dressing into the cabbage. Taste and adjust as needed. About 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Add sesame seeds. Sprinkle in the sesame seeds and toss briefly to distribute. About 15 seconds.

Step 6: Chill to soften. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes, until the cabbage wilts slightly and a natural sauce forms. Thicker cuts may need overnight.

If using a bag of coleslaw mix, allow extra rest time for flavors to meld.

Recipe FAQs

Before You Go

I hope you enjoyed this cool, creamy, crunchy side dish. Be sure to explore my other side dish recipes for more chef-tested favorites.