Bright Mediterranean Coleslaw Recipe: A Fresh Twist on Classic Crunch

Vibrant Mediterranean coleslaw bursts with unexpected flavor combinations that reimagine an ordinary side dish into a culinary adventure.

Crisp vegetables dance beneath a zesty dressing that whispers of sun-drenched coastal regions.

Raw ingredients combine in a refreshing blend that challenges traditional salad expectations.

Tangy and bright, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe breaks free from predictable cabbage preparations.

Crunchy textures and bold seasonings create a sensory experience that delights the palate.

Mediterranean influences shine through each carefully balanced ingredient, offering a modern twist on classic slaw.

You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together, promising maximum taste with minimal effort.

Tossing, Mixing, and Dressing Just Right

Step 1: Craft Zesty Lemon Garlic Dressing

• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk or shake ingredients until perfectly combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Gather Colorful Salad Components

• Coleslaw mix
• Red bell pepper (diced)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Black olives (drained)
• Banana pepper rings
• Crumbled feta cheese

Step 3: Dress and Enhance Flavors

Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until every ingredient is beautifully coated. Allow the coleslaw to rest for 15 minutes, letting the flavors mingle and develop. Just before serving, give the salad another quick stir to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.

Serving Tip: This Mediterranean-inspired coleslaw serves as a refreshing side dish perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch companion.

Tips for Balance, Texture, and Flavor

• Massage Cabbage: Soften coleslaw mix by gently massaging with a pinch of salt to break down tough fibers and enhance flavor absorption.
• Chill for Depth: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
• Select Fresh Herbs: Use freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, bright taste that elevates the entire Mediterranean profile.
• Balance Acid and Oil: Adjust lemon juice and olive oil ratio to create a perfectly balanced vinaigrette that doesn't overpower the vegetables.
• Customize Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds just before serving to introduce an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor.

Keep Slaw Fresh Without Getting Soggy

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the coleslaw chilled to maintain its crisp texture and vibrant flavors.
• Draining: Before storing, drain any excess liquid to prevent sogginess. Use a slotted spoon when transferring the salad to remove extra vinaigrette.
• Reheating: This salad tastes best served cold. For best results, give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the ingredients and redistribute the dressing. Avoid microwaving, as it will wilt the vegetables and diminish the fresh Mediterranean taste.

Perfect Pairings from BBQ to Pita

• Pair with Grilled Proteins: Complement the tangy Mediterranean coleslaw with succulent grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, or fish like sea bass. The zesty vinaigrette cuts through rich meats, creating a balanced flavor profile.
• Serve with Crisp White Wine: Choose a refreshing Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to match the bright, citrusy notes of the coleslaw. These wines enhance the salad's herbal and lemony undertones without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
• Side with Warm Pita Bread: Grab some soft, warm pita bread to scoop up the coleslaw and soak up the delicious vinaigrette. The bread provides a comforting texture contrast to the crunchy vegetables and adds a traditional Mediterranean touch.
• Enjoy with Greek-Style Mezze: Create a complete Mediterranean spread by adding hummus, tzatziki, and dolmas alongside the coleslaw. These small plates offer additional flavors and textures that complement the salad's vibrant character.

Slaw Versions That Surprise and Delight

• Greek Garden Remix: Replace black olives with kalamata olives and add diced cucumber for extra freshness and crunch.
• Herb-Packed Power Bowl: Incorporate fresh mint and dill alongside parsley, increasing the herbal complexity and Mediterranean profile.
• Protein-Packed Punch: Mix in grilled chicken strips or chickpeas to transform the coleslaw into a complete meal with added protein and substance.
• Spicy Mediterranean Version: Include diced jalapeños and a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a zesty, warming kick to their salad.

Coleslaw, but With a Mediterranean Soul

• Burst with Mediterranean Flavors: Tangy lemon, zesty garlic, and aromatic oregano create a vibrant taste explosion that transports your palate to sunny coastal regions.
• Effortless Texture Delight: Crisp coleslaw mix provides a satisfying crunch, while creamy feta and soft olives add luxurious depth to every refreshing bite.
• Quick and Foolproof Preparation: This no-cook recipe takes just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, picnics, or last-minute side dish emergencies without compromising on incredible taste.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with colorful ingredients and bold Mediterranean-inspired dressing, this coleslaw works brilliantly as a side dish, potluck contribution, or light lunch that keeps everyone coming back for more.

What You Need for Crunchy Freshness

• Coleslaw Mix: Pre-shredded cabbage blend for quick and easy salad preparation.
• Red Bell Pepper: Vibrant color and sweet crunch that adds freshness to the salad.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that provides bright flavor and green color.
• Banana Pepper Rings: Tangy and mild pepper that adds zesty flavor.

• Feta Cheese: Creamy, salty cheese that provides Mediterranean flavor.
• Black Olives: Briny and rich Mediterranean ingredient that enhances overall taste.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Classic Mediterranean dressing base that creates bright, tangy flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Adds savory depth without using fresh garlic.
• Oregano: Traditional Mediterranean herb that provides aromatic seasoning.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the salad's flavors.

Mediterranean Coleslaw Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Mediterranean Coleslaw brings refreshing zest to classic summer sides with crisp cabbage, colorful bell peppers, and tangy feta cheese. Herb-infused olive oil dressing and briny kalamata olives elevate this salad, offering you a delightful taste of Mediterranean coastal cuisine.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients (Vegetables):

• 16 ounces (454 grams) coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• 1 2.25-ounce (64 grams) can sliced black olives
• ½ 12-ounce (340 grams) jar banana pepper rings

Dairy:

• 2 ounces (57 grams) feta, crumbled

Dressing:

• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

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Instructions

1. Create a zesty lemon garlic vinaigrette by whisking together extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, granulated garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and ground black pepper in a small mixing bowl until thoroughly emulsified.
2. In a spacious salad bowl, combine pre-shredded cabbage mix, finely diced crimson bell pepper, freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley, well-drained Kalamata olives, sliced tangy banana pepper rings, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the vegetable mixture, gently tossing with salad tongs to ensure every ingredient is uniformly coated with the bright, herbaceous dressing.
4. Allow the coleslaw to rest at room temperature for approximately 15 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld and the cabbage to slightly soften and absorb the vinaigrette’s vibrant profile.
5. Just before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and reinvigorate the ingredients, ensuring a harmonious blend of Mediterranean-inspired flavors in each crisp, refreshing bite.

Notes

• Vibrant Mediterranean flavors burst through in this zesty, refreshing coleslaw that elevates traditional cabbage salad.
• Marinating the salad for 15 minutes allows ingredients to absorb the bright, tangy lemon garlic vinaigrette, intensifying the overall taste profile.
• Versatile dish perfect as a side, potluck contribution, or light lunch that pairs beautifully with grilled proteins or Mediterranean-inspired meals.
• Customize by adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal, or adjust vegetable quantities based on personal preference.
• Fresh herbs and briny olives transform ordinary coleslaw into an exciting, restaurant-quality side dish with minimal preparation time.
• Keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for meal prep or quick weekday lunches.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 139 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 281 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 8 mg