Mediterranean Coleslaw

This Mediterranean Coleslaw is a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful twist on traditional coleslaw. Made with crisp cabbage, sweet bell peppers, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, it’s tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing infused with garlic and oregano. This refreshing side dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or as a light and healthy addition to any meal. It’s quick to prepare and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors!

⏱ Time Required:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

3 cups green cabbage, shredded

1 cup purple cabbage, shredded

1/2 cup carrots, julienned

1/4 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 lemon, cut into wedges (for garnish)

Dressing:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the green and purple cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, and olives.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the coleslaw and toss to combine.
Sprinkle crumbled feta and fresh parsley on top.
Garnish with lemon wedges and serve fresh.

Mediterranean Coleslaw Recipe Tips – Q&A

Q: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Mix them just before serving to keep the coleslaw fresh and crunchy.

Q: What can I use instead of feta cheese?

A: Try goat cheese for a milder flavor or omit the cheese for a dairy-free version. Crumbled tofu with a dash of lemon juice can also be a great substitute.

Q: Can I use bagged coleslaw mix instead of shredding cabbage?

A: Absolutely! A pre-shredded coleslaw mix saves time and works just as well. Choose a mix with both green and purple cabbage for the best flavor and color.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cabbage will soften slightly but will still be delicious.

Q: What protein can I add to make this a full meal?

A: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work well to turn this side dish into a complete meal.

Q: Can I make the dressing oil-free?

A: Yes! Swap the olive oil for plain Greek yogurt or tahini for a creamy, oil-free dressing.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate Values)

(Serving size: 1 cup)

Calories: ~150

Protein: 3g

Carbohydrates: 10g

Fiber: 3g

Fat: 10g

Sodium: 250mg (varies with feta and olives)

(Note: Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)

Serving Suggestions

✅ As a Side Dish:

Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, lamb, or shrimp.
Serve alongside falafel, gyros, or a Mediterranean grain bowl.

✅ As a Light Meal:

Add chickpeas or quinoa for extra protein and fiber.
Toss with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick, satisfying lunch.

✅ As a Wrap Filling:

Use as a crunchy filling for pita wraps with hummus and roasted veggies.
Try it in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.

✅ With a Mediterranean Mezze Platter:

Serve with hummus, tzatziki, olives, and pita bread for a refreshing spread.

This coleslaw is crunchy, tangy, and packed with Mediterranean flavors—perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood! Would you like any modifications to suit your taste?