Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Bowl

Name: Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup chopped red cabbage; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: pinch of celery seed for flavor; Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro); Sliced almonds or walnuts; Sliced green onions

Highlighted under: Fast Flavor | Quick Tastes

I love whipping up a colorful Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Bowl whenever I want a refreshing and nutritious meal. The creamy yogurt base makes it both tangy and delightful, while the crunch of fresh veggies adds a satisfying texture. It's an easy dish to customize with your favorite toppings, perfect for a light lunch or a side at dinner. I appreciate how quickly it comes together, and it's a great way to use up leftover cabbage or carrots from the fridge.

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-23T13:18:19.045Z

When I first created this Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Bowl, I was looking for a way to balance richness with freshness. By swapping traditional mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, I not only cut down on calories but also added a protein punch. The tang from the yogurt pairs so well with the sweetness of the carrots and the crunch of cabbage, making each bite a delightful surprise.

I also found that adding a splash of apple cider vinegar elevates the flavors without overwhelming the dish. This simple adjustment ensures the coleslaw stays crisp, and the vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Greek yogurt brings a healthier twist to classic coleslaw.
Packed with colorful vegetables for a feast for the eyes.
Versatile and can be customized to suit your taste!

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Using Greek yogurt as the base for this coleslaw is not just a healthy choice; it also plays a key role in the dish's overall flavor and texture. The yogurt adds a creamy richness that mimics traditional dressings but without the heaviness of mayonnaise. Plus, its tartness balances perfectly with the sweetness of the honey and the acidity of the apple cider vinegar, creating a complex flavor profile that enhances the fresh crunch of the vegetables.

Additionally, Greek yogurt is a fantastic source of protein, making this coleslaw not only a side dish but a fulfilling meal option. When selecting your yogurt, opt for full-fat or low-fat varieties for the best texture; non-fat versions might be too thin and fail to coat the veggies adequately. I’ve found that a thicker yogurt provides a creamy consistency that clings to the vegetables beautifully.

Vegetable Selection and Preparation

The trio of green cabbage, carrots, and red cabbage is not just visually appealing but also nutritionally balanced. Green cabbage is crisp and mild, acting as a perfect canvas for the other more vibrant ingredients. Carrots lend a natural sweetness, while the red cabbage offers a crunch and a pop of color. For added variety, feel free to include shredded broccoli stems or bell peppers. These variations can introduce new textures and flavor notes.

When preparing the vegetables, aim for evenly shredded pieces to ensure consistent flavor and texture in every bite. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform shreds quickly. When mixing the vegetables, toss them thoroughly so that the dressing can coat each piece evenly, which enhances the overall flavor. Make sure to let it sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Customizing Your Coleslaw Bowl

This Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Bowl is highly customizable, making it easy to adapt based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For added protein, toss in chickpeas or shredded cooked chicken, which meld well with the creamy dressing. If you're looking for a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicier variation. You can adjust sweetness too; if you prefer a less sweet coleslaw, reduce the honey according to your taste.

For advanced meal prep, consider mixing the vegetables and the dressing separately and combining them just before serving. This approach keeps the veggies crisp and prevents them from wilting, allowing for a fresher taste. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, I recommend consuming them within the first two days for optimal texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Bowl:

Coleslaw Mix

4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped red cabbage

Dressing

1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of celery seed for flavor

Toppings (optional)

Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro)
Sliced almonds or walnuts
Sliced green onions

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious coleslaw bowl:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped red cabbage. Toss together to ensure an even mix.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until everything is well coated. If desired, add toppings like fresh herbs or nuts.

Enjoy your Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Bowl on its own or as a side dish!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, add sliced bell peppers or radishes. This dish can be made ahead of time
just wait to add the dressing until you're ready to serve to keep the veggies crisp.

Serving Ideas

This Greek Yogurt Coleslaw Bowl is perfect for a light lunch or as a vibrant side dish for dinner. Serve it alongside grilled meats or seafood for a refreshing contrast. You can even use it as a topping for fish tacos or as a filling for a wrap for a portable meal option. The versatility of this coleslaw allows for many creative serving opportunities, making it a great addition to any meal.

To make it a complete meal, consider pairing this bowl with a side of quinoa or a bed of greens, such as arugula or spinach. The additional nutrients will complement the coleslaw, creating a filling dish filled with color and flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

For those who enjoy meal prepping, this coleslaw holds up well in the fridge. Just remember to store the dressing separately from the vegetables to prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, you can mix them together for a quick meal that tastes fresh. Just give the vegetables a good toss after sitting to revive their crisp texture, and they will be as delightful as when freshly prepared.

If you find yourself with an abundance of fresh veggies, consider doubling the recipe. Coleslaw keeps reasonably well for a couple of days, allowing for easy lunches or sides throughout the week. You're likely to get even more flavor as the ingredients continue to marry in the fridge, enhancing the taste with each passing day.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your coleslaw appears too watery after mixing, it might be due to excess moisture in the vegetables. To counter this, you can drain off excess liquid or add a bit more Greek yogurt to thicken the dressing. If you find the coleslaw too tangy, consider balancing the flavors with a tad more honey or a splash of neutral oil to mellow out the acidity without losing the yogurt's benefits.

When freshly prepared, it's important to adjust seasoning according to your taste before serving it. If you find the flavors lacking, a small pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar can elevate the entire dish. Remember, tasting as you go is an essential step in achieving the best flavor possible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this coleslaw vegan?

Yes! You can replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the vegetables may lose some crunch.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can incorporate ingredients like bell peppers, radishes, or even apples for added flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels if you are sensitive or have celiac disease.