Ah, Mediterranean Coleslaw! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and honestly, I can’t get enough of it. A few summers ago, I hosted a Mediterranean-themed dinner party, and this colorful, crunchy salad stole the spotlight. As friends dug in, I fondly remember the laughter and chatter around the table – it felt like a warm hug from the Mediterranean itself. The flavors are fresh and bright, and they remind me of sun-drenched picnics and leisurely meals with loved ones.
What I absolutely love about this coleslaw is how effortlessly it comes together. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for the sweltering heat of summer or as a refreshing accompaniment any time of year. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can mix in some garnet-hued beets or a sprinkle of tangy feta – the possibilities are endless!
What’s in Mediterranean Coleslaw?
This Mediterranean Coleslaw is a vibrant combination of ingredients, each bringing its own flair to the bowl:
Green Cabbage: The crunchy backbone of the coleslaw, finely shredded for easy tossing. It’s healthy, low in calories, and an excellent source of vitamins C and K.
Carrots: Shredded for color and a natural sweetness, carrots add a lovely crunch. Plus, they offer a good dose of beta-carotene.
Red and Yellow Bell Peppers: Not only do they provide a burst of vibrant color, but they’re also rich in vitamins A and C. Their sweet, juicy flavor perfectly complements the crunch of the cabbage.
Red Onion: Finely chopped for a mild zing. If you’re not a big onion fan, you could swap for a green onion for a milder taste.
Black Olives: These give the salad a briny kick. I usually opt for Kalamata olives for their bold flavor. Make sure they’re sliced for easy eating.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a touch of freshness – and don’t skip it! Fresh herbs make all the difference in this dish.
Olive Oil: A good drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and ensures everything sticks together nicely.
Red Wine Vinegar: This gives the salad a sharp tang that cuts through the creaminess of the oil, elevating the flavors.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens everything up – I can never have too much lemon!
Garlic Powder: For that smidgen of garlicky flavor without overpowering the dish.
Salt and Pepper: No coleslaw is complete without a pinch of seasoning, tweaking the flavors just right!
Is Mediterranean Coleslaw Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health, shall we? This coleslaw is not just tasty; it’s a nutritional powerhouse!
– **Fiber-packed:** The combination of shredded cabbage, carrots, and peppers is a great source of fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
– **Vitamins Galore:** With all those colorful veggies, you’re getting a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, and K. Plus, antioxidants from the bell peppers contribute to overall health.
– **Heart-healthy fats:** The use of olive oil not only adds flavor but provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can be beneficial for heart health.
While this coleslaw is generally a wonderful and healthy side, watch out for added ingredients. If you choose to mix in some cheese or other toppings, keep portions in check to maintain a balanced dish.
Ingredients
– 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
– 1 cup carrots, shredded
– 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe generously serves about 6-8 people, perfect for a gathering or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Mediterranean Coleslaw?
Ready to whip up this delightful dish? Here’s how you do it:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, carrots, diced red and yellow bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, and fresh parsley. Give it all a gentle toss to combine.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture. Toss everything together until the vegetables are thoroughly coated with the dressing.
4. Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Serve chilled alongside grilled meats or as part of a larger Mediterranean feast.
A Little Extra Love
Considering this coleslaw’s versatility, why not make it your own? You could add in **chickpeas** for added protein or sprinkle some **feta cheese** for a creamy touch. And if you want to jazz it up even more, try folding in some **chopped mint** or even **diced cucumbers** for extra crunch and flavor! Just remember, this coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh to maintain that delightful crunch.
I’m so excited for you to give this Mediterranean Coleslaw a try! The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten up any meal. I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Whether you’re enjoying it with friends or just treating yourself, this dish brings a taste of the sunny Mediterranean right to your dinner table. Happy cooking!
