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Colorful rainbow coleslaw made with shredded red and green cabbage, grated carrots, and a creamy honey mayonnaise dressing in a white serving dish.

Rainbow Coleslaw with Honey Mayonnaise

A vibrant, crunchy side dish featuring a mix of colorful cabbages and carrots, dressed in a creamy honey mayonnaise. Perfect for BBQs and meal prep.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large 1 large egg About 50 g
  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp honey mustard
  • 1 cup 1 cup sunflower oil
  • Salt to taste Salt, to taste
  • 3/4 cup 3/4 cup grated coconut
  • Cold water (for soaking coconut) Just enough to fully moisten
  • 1/2 head 1/2 head red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1/2 head 1/2 head green cabbage, finely shredded
  • Ice water (for soaking the cabbages)
  • 5 5 carrots, grated or julienned

Optional Ingredients

  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1-2 tsp 1–2 tsp lemon juice or mild vinegar Helps brighten and stabilize the dressing
  • 1-2 tsp 1–2 tsp honey If you want it sweeter
  • 1 small clove 1 small clove garlic, finely grated For a savory kick
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), chopped
  • Toasted seeds (sesame or sunflower seeds) for topping

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Shred the cabbages: Slice red and green cabbage into thin shreds. The thinner you go, the more “deli-style” your slaw will feel.
  • Ice-water crisping (15 minutes): Put the red cabbage in one bowl and the green cabbage in another. Cover each with ice water and let them soak for 15 minutes.
  • This step crisps the cabbage and mellows any sharp flavor.
  • Prep the carrots: Peel and grate (or julienne) 5 carrots. Set aside.
  • Soak the coconut: Place 3/4 cup grated coconut in a small bowl, cover with cold water, let sit 2–3 minutes, then pour into a colander and drain well.

Mixing / Assembling

  • Drain and dry the cabbage: Pour each cabbage bowl into a colander to drain. Then gently press out extra water. For the best creamy texture, pat the cabbage dry with a clean towel or paper towels.
  • Make the honey mayonnaise: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 egg + 1 tbsp honey mustard + a pinch of salt. While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the sunflower oil until it thickens and becomes glossy and creamy.
  • Combine: In a large bowl, add drained red cabbage, drained green cabbage, carrots, and the drained coconut. Toss gently.
  • Dress the slaw: Add the honey mayonnaise little by little, tossing as you go, until everything is coated to your liking.

Resting / Finishing

  • Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon/vinegar if you want extra brightness.
  • Rest for best flavor: Chill 15–30 minutes before serving (optional but recommended).
  • Serve: Give it one final toss and enjoy cold or cool.

Notes

For the crunchiest slaw: Soak the cabbages in ice water, then drain and dry well. For a smooth, stable dressing: Use a room-temperature egg and add oil slowly at the start.
Keyword BBQ Side Dish, Cabbage Salad, Coleslaw, Healthy Salads, No-Cook Recipes