We’ve got a real treat for you with Zoe’s Kitchen slaw recipe, a fresh twist on the classic side that brings Mediterranean flavors right to your table. Originating from the beloved restaurant chain, this slaw combines crisp veggies with zesty dressings we can’t get enough of.
It’s the perfect way to add a healthy crunch to any meal, and we’re excited to share how easy it is to recreate at home. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic or a quick dinner, this recipe will become a staple in our kitchens.
Ingredients
As we dive into recreating our Zoe’s Kitchen Slaw Recipe, let’s start with the fresh, vibrant ingredients that bring its Mediterranean flair to life. These components highlight crisp vegetables and zesty flavors, making it easy for us to craft a healthy, flavorful side dish at home.
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage: The base of our slaw, providing a crisp texture for that refreshing crunch.
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage: Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness to balance the Mediterranean herbs.
- 1 cup grated carrots: Offers a natural sweetness and extra crunch; freshly grated for the best texture.
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion: Brings a mild sharpness; soak in cold water if we want to mellow the bite before adding.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Infuses a tangy, creamy element that’s signature to Zoe’s Mediterranean twist.
- 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives: Provides a briny depth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley: Adds bright, herbaceous notes; use leaves only for maximum freshness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped: Enhances the zesty dressing with a cooling, aromatic touch.
- For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil: The heart of our zesty base, ensuring a smooth emulsion.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Delivers the bright acidity that ties everything together.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds a subtle, pungent kick; freshly minced for optimal flavor.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the tartness with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously to enhance the Mediterranean essence of our Zoe’s Kitchen Slaw Recipe.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our vibrant ingredients for Zoe’s Kitchen slaw, let’s walk through the steps to create this refreshing Mediterranean-inspired side dish. We’ll ensure each phase brings out the crisp textures and zesty flavors that make it a healthy staple.
Prep the Vegetables
First, we rinse and prepare the vegetables to achieve that signature crisp and colorful base. Start by shredding 4 cups of green cabbage and 2 cups of red cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline for even, thin strips that provide a satisfying crunch. Next, grate 1 cup of carrots to add a sweet, vibrant orange hue and subtle earthiness to our slaw.
Then, thinly slice 1 small red onion into fine rings or half-moons to introduce a sharp, tangy bite that balances the dish’s freshness. Crumble 1/2 cup of feta cheese for its creamy, salty notes that evoke Mediterranean flair. Finally, chop 1/4 cup of parsley and 2 tablespoons of mint leaves finely to infuse herbal brightness—aim for pieces small enough to distribute evenly and enhance the overall aroma.
Make the Dressing
With our vegetables ready, we shift to crafting the zesty dressing that ties Zoe’s Kitchen slaw together. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until emulsified, creating a light and tangy base that highlights the dish’s Mediterranean essence.
Add 1 clove of minced garlic for a pungent kick, followed by 1 teaspoon of honey to balance the acidity with natural sweetness. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, then whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and glossy—this step ensures the dressing coats the slaw perfectly, delivering a burst of zesty and flavorful notes in every bite.
Assemble the Slaw
Now we bring everything together to form the final, irresistible Zoe’s Kitchen slaw. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared vegetables—shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and mint—along with 1/4 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted and halved, for a briny contrast.
Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently with tongs or clean hands to coat evenly, allowing the crisp vegetables to absorb the zesty flavors without wilting. Finally, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese and give it one last gentle fold to incorporate, resulting in a visually appealing slaw that’s ready to serve with its fresh crunch and bold Mediterranean taste.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Zoe’s Kitchen slaw recipe is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to save time while keeping the fresh, crisp flavors intact. Whether we’re planning a picnic or a busy weeknight dinner, preparing components in advance ensures a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired side dish ready to impress.
Preparing the Vegetables
We can prep the vegetables up to 24 hours ahead to maintain their crunch. Start by shredding the green and red cabbage, grating the carrots, and slicing the red onion. Place these in an airtight container, layering them with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. This simple step helps preserve the vibrant colors and textures that make Zoe’s Kitchen slaw so appealing.
Making the Dressing
The zesty dressing is ideal for making ahead, as its flavors meld beautifully over time. We combine extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, and seasoning in a jar with a tight lid. Shake vigorously to emulsify, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When we’re ready to use it, give it a quick stir to ensure the tangy, herbaceous notes shine through.
Assembling the Slaw
For optimal freshness, we recommend assembling the full slaw no more than 2 hours before serving to avoid sogginess. If making ahead, mix the prepped vegetables with Kalamata olives and store them separately from the dressing and crumbled feta cheese. Add the dressing and feta just before serving to keep the slaw’s crisp bite and bold Mediterranean taste.
Storage Tips
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepped Vegetables | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container in fridge | Use paper towel to prevent wilting |
| Dressing | Up to 3 days | Sealed jar in fridge | Shake before use for best flavor |
| Full Assembled Slaw | Up to 2 hours | Covered bowl in fridge | Add feta last to maintain texture |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on Zoe’s Kitchen slaw recipe. It’s a simple way to bring Mediterranean flair to your table that’s both healthy and delicious.
You’ll find it becomes a go-to for quick meals or gatherings. Give it a try and see how it elevates your everyday dishes with fresh flavors we know you’ll crave.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zoe’s Kitchen slaw?
Zoe’s Kitchen slaw is a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired side dish featuring crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. It combines shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and herbs like parsley and mint, all tossed in a tangy mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and honey. This easy recipe makes a healthy, vibrant addition to meals, perfect for picnics or quick dinners.
What ingredients are needed for Zoe’s Kitchen slaw?
The main ingredients include shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, fresh parsley, and mint. For the dressing, you’ll need extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. These simple, fresh components create a flavorful, Mediterranean twist on traditional slaw.
How do I make Zoe’s Kitchen slaw at home?
Start by prepping the vegetables: shred cabbage, grate carrots, slice onion, and chop herbs. Mix them with Kalamata olives. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, honey, and seasonings. Combine the veggies and dressing, then gently fold in feta cheese. Chill briefly for the best flavor. This easy process takes about 15-20 minutes and serves as a refreshing side.
Can I prepare Zoe’s Kitchen slaw in advance?
Yes, you can prep vegetables up to 24 hours ahead and store them in an airtight container with a paper towel to keep them crisp. Make the dressing up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in a sealed jar for enhanced flavors. Assemble the full slaw no more than 2 hours before serving to maintain crunch—keep dressing and feta separate until then for optimal freshness.
Is Zoe’s Kitchen slaw healthy?
Absolutely, it’s a nutritious option packed with vitamins from fresh veggies like cabbage, carrots, and herbs. The olive oil-based dressing adds healthy fats, while feta provides protein without overwhelming calories. With no heavy creams or sugars, it’s low-calorie and perfect for a balanced diet, making it ideal for weight management or healthy eating plans.
How should I store Zoe’s Kitchen slaw?
Store prepped vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, using a paper towel to absorb moisture and preserve crunch. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar for up to 3 days. For assembled slaw, refrigerate in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for the best taste and texture—stir before serving to refresh.