Kohlrabi slaw is a vibrant, crunchy, and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings, BBQs, and summer lunches. Kohlrabi, a member of the cabbage family, adds a slightly sweet and peppery flavor, which pairs beautifully with a tangy dressing and fresh herbs. This slaw is a healthier, low-carb twist on traditional coleslaw and brings a unique texture and flavor profile to the table.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 medium kohlrabi, peeled and julienned
• 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded
• ½ small red cabbage, thinly sliced
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or dill)
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the vegetables: peel the kohlrabi and julienne it into thin strips. Shred the carrot and thinly slice the red cabbage and red onion.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the kohlrabi, carrot, cabbage, onion, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Let the slaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Stir once more before serving chilled or at room temperature as a side dish.

Nutrition Facts 

• Calories: 110 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Vitamin C: 60% DV
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 2% DV

Nutritional Benefits of Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi is a highly nutritious vegetable, offering a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium while being low in calories and carbs. This makes it an excellent choice for those managing weight, blood sugar, or cholesterol levels. The vitamin C content in kohlrabi helps boost immune health, supports skin integrity, and enhances iron absorption. The fiber aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. In this slaw, kohlrabi’s natural crunch provides satisfying texture, making it a smart and tasty way to include more vegetables in your diet.

Flavor and Texture Profile

Kohlrabi has a mild, slightly sweet, and peppery flavor reminiscent of broccoli stems or cabbage hearts. When raw, it offers a crisp and juicy bite, which forms the backbone of this slaw’s appeal. Combined with carrots and red cabbage, the mix becomes a medley of textures—soft, crunchy, and tender. The creamy dressing balances these crisp vegetables with smoothness and tang, making each bite refreshing and flavorful. This interplay of textures and taste layers keeps the slaw exciting on its own or when paired with richer main courses.

Ideal for BBQs and Grilling Season

This kohlrabi slaw is particularly well-suited for backyard BBQs, picnics, or potlucks thanks to its cool, crisp nature and ability to cut through the richness of grilled meats. Whether you’re serving burgers, sausages, chicken, or ribs, the light tang of the slaw provides a refreshing contrast that complements smoky, savory dishes. It holds up well at room temperature, making it ideal for outdoor settings, and its vibrant colors also enhance the visual appeal of any summer spread.

Versatile Serving Ideas

Kohlrabi slaw is far more versatile than it may seem at first glance. Beyond being a side dish, it can be used as a crunchy topping for pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, wraps, or even grain bowls. It adds a nutritious and flavorful layer to fish tacos, pairs well with roast chicken, and works beautifully as a base under grilled tofu or tempeh for plant-based meals. Its light nature makes it suitable for lunch or dinner, and you can even serve it over greens for a fresh twist on salad.

Easy Customization and Variations

One of the great things about this slaw is how easily it can be customized to suit different flavor preferences and dietary needs. For a creamier texture, increase the amount of mayo or swap it out for sour cream or Greek yogurt. To make it vegan, use a plant-based mayo or tahini dressing. Add-ins like sliced apples, radishes, or fennel can enhance complexity and crunch. For a more vibrant flavor, try adding lime juice, chili flakes, or a handful of chopped cilantro or mint. You can also experiment with different mustards or vinegars to create regional variations.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Potential

Kohlrabi is a favorite in low-carb and keto communities due to its minimal starch content compared to traditional cabbage or potatoes. Using Greek yogurt or sugar-free mayonnaise in the dressing can make this slaw even more keto-compliant. For anyone trying to reduce refined sugars, skipping the honey or replacing it with a sugar-free substitute still yields a delicious and satisfying dish. It’s an ideal way to enjoy a “comfort food” side without compromising on health or diet goals.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Benefits

Kohlrabi slaw holds up wonderfully when made ahead, making it a practical addition to weekly meal planning. The crunchy texture remains intact for at least two to three days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. In fact, letting the slaw sit overnight enhances the flavor as the dressing soaks into the vegetables. This also allows the tangy notes to mellow and meld beautifully with the raw vegetables. Whether you’re planning a party or looking for a convenient lunch option, this slaw fits seamlessly into a busy schedule.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and texture of this slaw. Once prepared, it should be refrigerated in a sealed container and consumed within 3–4 days. Avoid freezing, as the raw vegetables tend to become watery and lose their crispness upon thawing. If storing without dressing, you can keep the prepped veggies separate for up to five days and toss them in dressing just before serving for maximum crunch. This approach is especially useful when preparing large batches for events or meal preps.

Kid-Friendly and Family Appeal

Kohlrabi slaw, with its mild flavor and bright colors, can be surprisingly appealing to kids and picky eaters. Shredded carrots and red cabbage make the dish visually exciting, while the creamy dressing makes it feel more familiar. Involving children in grating vegetables or whisking the dressing can also encourage them to try and enjoy the final dish. It’s a great way to introduce new vegetables into a child’s diet without overwhelming their palate with strong or bitter flavors.

Environmental and Seasonal Advantages

Kohlrabi is a cool-season crop and grows well in temperate climates, making it an environmentally friendly and often locally sourced ingredient. Choosing kohlrabi from farmers markets or local producers can support sustainable agriculture and reduce carbon footprint. It’s also a great way to embrace seasonal eating during the spring and fall months when kohlrabi is at its peak. Utilizing this lesser-known vegetable helps reduce dependency on more common produce and promotes biodiversity in the diet.

Conclusion

Kohlrabi slaw is a refreshing, nutritious, and adaptable dish that adds flair to any meal. With its crunchy texture, tangy dressing, and vibrant ingredients, it shines as a side dish or a stand-alone salad. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking to try a new vegetable, this slaw offers both flavor and function. Its versatility, health benefits, and ease of preparation make it a must-have in your seasonal recipe rotation.