California Coleslaw: A Fresh, Crunchy, and Colorful Coleslaw with Creamy Citrus Dressing
California Coleslaw is a colorful blend of cabbage, carrots, apples, avocado, bell peppers, and fresh herbs tossed in a creamy citrus dressing. The combination of crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and tangy lemon dressing creates a refreshing side dish that's both healthy and flavorful. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, and meal prep. Light, crunchy, and packed with fresh ingredients, this coleslaw complements a wide variety of main dishes.
Ingredients
For the Coleslaw
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 crisp apple, thinly sliced or julienned
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Citrus Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon celery seed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, apple, bell pepper, green onions, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, celery seed, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture.
- Toss gently until all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Carefully fold in the diced avocado to keep the pieces intact.
- Sprinkle with sunflower seeds or sliced almonds if desired.
- Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the best texture.
- Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- Greek yogurt lightens the dressing while adding creaminess.
- Chill before serving for enhanced flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice provides the brightest taste.
- Sunflower seeds add a satisfying crunch.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.