Dilly Coleslaw with Raisins and Walnuts - Vegan

Prep: 15 min6 servingsmediumAmerican
Dilly Coleslaw with Raisins and Walnuts - Vegan

Fresh cabbage and carrots combine with sweet raisins, crunchy toasted walnuts, and aromatic dill in this vibrant vegan coleslaw. The creamy plant-based dressing balances tangy lemon juice with herbs for a refreshing side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or weeknight dinners. Unlike traditional coleslaw, this version adds textural interest with nuts and dried fruit while keeping things completely dairy-free.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • small head of cabbage, shredded or thinly sliced
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • ½ cup raisins
    dried cranberries1:1vegan

    adds tartness

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup walnuts, chopped and lightly toasted
    pecans or almonds1:1tree nuts

    different flavor profile

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup fresh dill, coarsely chopped
    dried dill3:1convenience

    less vibrant flavor

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup vegan mayonnaise, to taste
    regular mayonnaise1:1vegetarian

    not vegan

    Full guide →
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • fine sea salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Toss together cabbage, carrot, raisins, and walnuts in a salad bowl

  2. 2

    Mix dill, vegan mayonnaise, lemon juice, and sea salt in a small bowl

  3. 3

    Pour dressing over vegetables and toss to coat

  4. 4

    Taste and adjust salt as needed

  5. 5

    Add more mayonnaise if thicker dressing is desired

  6. 6

    Let sit for at least 20 minutes for flavors to meld or refrigerate for 2-4 hours before serving

Tips

Tip 1

Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant for extra crunch and nutty flavor

Tip 2

Make this coleslaw up to 8 hours ahead - the flavors improve as it sits and the cabbage softens slightly

Tip 3

Massage the shredded cabbage with a pinch of salt for 5 minutes before adding other ingredients to reduce bitterness

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate in airtight container up to 3 days

Make Ahead

Can be made 8 hours ahead - flavors improve with time

Serve With

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing

Watch

Let salad rest before serving to allow flavors to develop

Substitutions

Vegan Options

raisins
dried cranberries1:1vegan

adds tartness

Full guide →

General Alternatives

vegan mayonnaise
regular mayonnaise1:1vegetarian

not vegan

Full guide →
walnuts
pecans or almonds1:1tree nuts

different flavor profile

Full guide →
fresh dill
dried dill3:1convenience

less vibrant flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this coleslaw without nuts?

Yes, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch without tree nuts.

How long will this coleslaw keep in the refrigerator?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may soften over time but flavors remain good.

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of vegan?

Absolutely, substitute regular mayonnaise in the same amount if you don't need the recipe to be vegan.