Kohlrabi Slaw is a crisp, refreshing side dish that brings a unique twist to traditional coleslaw. With its mildly sweet, peppery flavor and crunchy texture, kohlrabi pairs beautifully with a zesty, creamy dressing. This slaw is ideal for outdoor cookouts, picnics, and barbecues, providing a light, vegetable-forward balance to heavier grilled fare.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 medium kohlrabi bulbs (peeled and julienned or shredded)
• 1 large carrot (peeled and julienned or shredded)
• ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the julienned kohlrabi, carrot, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Stir again before serving and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
7. Serve chilled as a side dish or topping for grilled meats or sandwiches.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 1g
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Vitamin C: 60% DV
• Vitamin A: 40% DV
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 4% DV

Nutritional Benefits of Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi is the star of this slaw, and it’s a nutritional gem that often gets overlooked. A member of the brassica family—alongside broccoli, cabbage, and kale—kohlrabi is packed with vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. It’s low in calories yet high in antioxidants and phytochemicals that support immune function and reduce inflammation. Its high fiber content also aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness, making it a great addition to any healthy diet. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor complements tangy dressings beautifully while offering a satisfying crunch.

Why Kohlrabi Is a Slaw Game-Changer

Traditional slaws usually rely on cabbage as the primary vegetable, but substituting or combining it with kohlrabi creates a refreshing change in texture and taste. Kohlrabi has a juicy, crisp bite that remains sturdy even when dressed in sauces or vinaigrettes. Unlike cabbage, it doesn’t release much water when sitting in a dressing, so the slaw stays crunchy longer. Its subtle sweetness adds balance to vinegar-based dressings, and it’s visually appealing with its pale green or purple hues.

Perfect for Outdoor Gatherings

Kohlrabi slaw is especially well-suited for picnics, cookouts, and barbecues due to its durability. Unlike leafy greens that wilt quickly, kohlrabi remains crisp, even after hours in a cooler or on a buffet table. This makes it an excellent side for warm-weather meals where freshness and longevity matter. It also adds a light, cooling contrast to heavier grilled items like burgers, ribs, or barbecue chicken, making it a standout side dish during summer celebrations and family gatherings.

Customizable to Your Taste

This slaw is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your flavor preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten it up, or use a vinaigrette base for a dairy-free version. You can mix in other root vegetables like radishes or jicama for added variety, or use red cabbage for color contrast. Want a spicy twist? Add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeño. The base of kohlrabi and carrots can support a wide range of additions without losing texture or appeal.

Ideal for Make-Ahead Meals

Kohlrabi slaw tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, making it an ideal make-ahead recipe. Letting the slaw rest in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld and deepen. It’s a fantastic dish to prepare the day before a big event so you can focus on other meal prep. Since the ingredients don’t get soggy quickly, it maintains its crunch and flavor, offering convenience without compromise in texture or taste.

Kid-Friendly and Mild in Flavor

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly slaw that doesn’t overwhelm with strong flavors or excessive vinegar, this recipe is a win. Kohlrabi has a mild, sweet flavor that’s far less bitter than cabbage, and the creamy dressing smooths out any sharpness from the onions or mustard. It’s a great way to introduce kids to new vegetables in a familiar form. You can even reduce the onions or skip the mustard if serving picky eaters—just the simple mix of carrots and kohlrabi with a hint of sweetness is usually a hit.

Pairing Ideas for Main Dishes

Kohlrabi slaw pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements anything grilled, like barbecue ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or veggie burgers. Its crunchy freshness balances the richness and smokiness of grilled meats. For plant-based meals, it works wonderfully as a taco topping or inside pita wraps with falafel. It also adds texture to rice bowls or alongside spicy curries, helping to mellow heat and cleanse the palate between bites.

Great Use for Farmer’s Market Finds

Kohlrabi is often found at farmers markets, especially in spring and early summer, making this slaw a great recipe to feature local produce. Many people aren’t sure how to use kohlrabi when they see it at the market, but a simple slaw turns this curious vegetable into a familiar, easy-to-love dish. Pair it with farm-fresh carrots and herbs like parsley or dill to showcase seasonal ingredients and support sustainable, local farming.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life

Kohlrabi slaw stores well for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator when kept in an airtight container. In fact, the flavor continues to improve as it sits, although the vegetables may soften slightly over time. To keep it extra crisp, you can store the vegetables and dressing separately and combine them just before serving. If you’re preparing it ahead for an event, be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen up the appearance.

Creative Ways to Serve

Beyond its role as a side dish, this slaw can be used creatively in various meals. Use it as a crunchy topping for pulled pork sliders or as a filling for lettuce wraps. Add it to sandwiches for a textural contrast or pile it onto a rice bowl for extra fiber and nutrients. You can even mix it into a green salad for added crunch or use it as a garnish for grilled fish. Its versatility makes it much more than just a side—it can be a flavor-enhancing element in many meals.

Conclusion

Kohlrabi slaw is more than just a colorful side dish—it’s a fresh, crunchy, and healthful way to showcase a unique and underused vegetable. Whether you’re preparing a backyard barbecue, looking to lighten up your weeknight meals, or simply wanting to try something new, this slaw delivers on both flavor and nutrition. With its adaptability, durability, and vibrant taste, it’s the kind of recipe that can become a go-to favorite in your seasonal kitchen rotation. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why it deserves a spot at every gathering.