Healthy Homemade Coleslaw Recipe
By Lisa Winbourn, Certified Functional Nutritionist · June 26, 2026
This crunchy homemade coleslaw is an easy way to add more fiber, colorful vegetables, and healthy fats to your meals. Unlike many store-bought versions, it's made with a simple dressing using avocado or homemade mayonnaise and contains no industrial seed oils. Pair it with chicken, turkey, beef, or fish for a quick, balanced lunch or dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
- Rich in fiber to support healthy digestion
- Pairs well with lean protein for balanced blood sugar
- Made without industrial seed oils
- Great for meal prep
- Naturally gluten free
- Ready in about 10 minutes
Lisa's Nutrition Notes
Many women think a healthy meal has to be complicated. Sometimes the simplest meals are the most supportive. I love pairing this coleslaw with shredded chicken, grilled beef, turkey, or leftover protein for a quick lunch that provides protein, fiber, healthy fats, and plenty of nutrients. Eating balanced meals like this every 3 to 4 hours can help support steady energy, blood sugar balance, and healthy digestion.
Who This Recipe Is Great For
This recipe may be a great option if you're looking for meals that support:
- Fatty liver
- Blood sugar balance
- Healthy digestion
- Weight management
- Metabolism support
- Gallbladder-friendly meal ideas
- Higher fiber intake
- Anti-inflammatory eating
Ingredient Spotlight
Cabbage
Cabbage is naturally rich in fiber and plant compounds that support overall digestive health. It's also a low-calorie vegetable that adds volume and crunch to meals without causing large blood sugar spikes.
Carrots
Carrots provide fiber, beta-carotene, and antioxidants that support overall health while adding natural sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar adds flavor while helping create a light dressing. Some research suggests vinegar consumed with meals may help support healthy blood sugar responses.
Dijon Mustard
Mustard adds flavor without relying on added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Ready for a Complete Meal Plan?
One healthy meal won't transform your health overnight, but consistently nourishing your body can make a big difference over time. The 28-Day Liver Revival includes four weeks of simple meals, recipes, shopping lists, and step-by-step guidance to help support your liver, digestion, energy, and metabolism without restrictive dieting.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup homemade mayonnaise or avocado mayonnaise (avoid seed oils such as canola, soybean, corn, or vegetable oil)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 package shredded coleslaw mix (about 3 to 4 cups)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sea salt, pepper, and honey until smooth.
- Add the coleslaw mix and shredded carrots.
- Toss until all of the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor, or enjoy immediately.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It actually tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours.
Is this recipe good after gallbladder removal?
Many people tolerate this recipe well because it's paired with moderate amounts of healthy fat and plenty of fiber. If you've recently had your gallbladder removed, start with a smaller serving and see how your body responds.
Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?
Absolutely. Using pre-shredded cabbage makes this recipe quick and convenient.
How long does homemade coleslaw last?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What protein goes well with this recipe?
This coleslaw pairs well with shredded chicken, grilled turkey, lean beef, salmon, tuna, or grilled shrimp.
Written by
Lisa Winbourn, Certified Functional Nutritionist
Certified Functional Nutritionist with a B.S. in Chemistry & Biochemistry and 18 years in the pharmaceutical industry. She helps women with fatty liver, life after gallbladder removal, MTHFR, and a stalled metabolism.
Ready to revive your liver?