We’ve always been fans of Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw—it’s that perfect blend of crisp veggies and zesty flavors that elevates any meal. Drawing from their Mediterranean roots this side dish brings a fresh twist to the classic coleslaw we all know and love.
In our kitchen we’re excited to recreate this crowd-pleaser so you can enjoy it anytime. With simple ingredients and easy steps we’ll guide you to a homemade version that’s just as delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
As we dive into recreating our favorite Zoe’s Kitchen Cole Slaw, we start with the fresh, vibrant ingredients that capture its Mediterranean essence. These components combine crisp textures and zesty flavors to deliver a side dish that’s both refreshing and full of character. We’ll list them in the order we prepare and incorporate them, with specific prep notes for accuracy.
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded finely (about 6 cups; this forms the base, providing a crisp, crunchy foundation that holds up well in the dressing)
- 1/2 medium head red cabbage, shredded finely (approximately 3 cups; adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness to balance the tanginess)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and grated (yields about 1 1/2 cups; contributes a sweet, earthy crunch that enhances the overall texture)
Aromatic Add-Ins
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (around 1/2 cup; soak in cold water for 5 minutes if you prefer a milder bite, as we often do to keep the flavors bright without overpowering)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped coarsely (select flat-leaf for its robust flavor; this herb infuses a fresh, herbaceous note that nods to Mediterranean roots)
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (sheep’s milk variety preferred; about 4 ounces; adds a creamy, tangy contrast that makes this coleslaw uniquely satisfying)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is key for that pungent, aromatic punch that elevates the dressing)
Dressing Components
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (choose a high-quality option for its fruity undertones, which we mix in last to coat everything evenly)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons; freshly squeezed for maximum zing and acidity)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste; helps balance the sharpness with a touch of natural sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust based on feta’s saltiness for a well-seasoned blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (adds a subtle heat that we find essential for depth)
Instructions
We love recreating the fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors of Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw at home, and with these simple steps, we’ll guide you to a crisp, zesty side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Prepare the Vegetables
First, we gather our vibrant vegetables to capture the essence of this Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw. Start by shredding 1 small head of green cabbage and 1 small head of red cabbage into fine, even strips for that satisfying crunch. Next, grate 2 medium carrots using a box grater to add a sweet, colorful contrast. Thinly slice 1 small red onion with a sharp knife to ensure it blends seamlessly without overpowering the mix. Chop 1/2 cup of fresh parsley finely to infuse herbal notes, and crumble 1/2 cup of feta cheese for a tangy Mediterranean twist. Finally, mince 2 garlic cloves to release their aromatic punch. This preparation sets the stage for a refreshing base that highlights the dish’s crisp textures and bright flavors.
Make the Dressing
We craft the zesty dressing that elevates our Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw to authentic heights. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice until emulsified, creating a vibrant base that ties in the Mediterranean influence. Add 2 tablespoons of honey for a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity, then season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the overall depth. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well-combined—this step ensures the dressing coats the vegetables evenly, delivering a burst of tangy, herbaceous flavors in every bite.
Combine the Ingredients
With our vegetables prepped and dressing ready, we bring everything together for the heart of this Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw recipe. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red onion, chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic. Pour the dressing over the top, then use tongs or salad spoons to toss everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly coated. This mixing process is key to distributing the flavors, resulting in a harmonious blend where the crisp vegetables absorb the zesty dressing, creating a refreshing side dish that’s both visually appealing and full of Mediterranean-inspired taste.
Chill and Serve
To perfect the flavors of our homemade Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw, we chill it for optimal freshness. Transfer the combined mixture to a covered container or bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—or up to 2 hours for the best results—to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to retain their satisfying crunch. When ready to serve, give it a quick stir and portion it onto plates as a vibrant side. This step ensures the coleslaw is cool, crisp, and ready to complement your main dishes with its zesty, Mediterranean flair.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our homemade Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw to life, we rely on a few essential tools and equipment that make preparation efficient and ensure the best texture and flavor. Building on the fresh ingredients and detailed steps we’ve outlined, selecting the right items helps us achieve that crisp, zesty Mediterranean twist without hassle.
Essential Tools List
We categorize the tools by their primary functions to keep things straightforward:
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp knife is crucial for shredding green and red cabbage, thinly slicing red onion, and chopping parsley. We always opt for a chef’s knife to ensure clean, precise cuts that maintain the vegetables’ crunch.
- Box Grater: For grating carrots, a box grater with fine and coarse sides works wonders. It allows us to quickly prepare the carrots for that perfect texture, enhancing the coleslaw’s refreshing bite.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in our dressing, so we use standard measuring cups and spoons for ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and honey. This ensures the flavors balance perfectly every time.
- Whisk: A medium-sized whisk is indispensable for emulsifying the dressing. We whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth, creating a vibrant coating for the vegetables.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Opt for a large mixing bowl (at least 4 quarts) to combine all ingredients. It gives us ample space to toss the shredded vegetables, crumbled feta, and minced garlic with the dressing for even distribution.
- Refrigerator or Chiller: While not a tool per se, a reliable refrigerator is essential for chilling the coleslaw. We recommend at least 30 minutes of cooling time to let the flavors meld, as mentioned in our preparation steps.
If you’re scaling up the recipe for a larger gathering, here’s a quick comparison of tool quantities based on serving sizes:
| Serving Size | Recommended Tools to Duplicate | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 4-6 servings | 1 cutting board, 1 knife, 1 grater, 1 whisk, 1 large bowl | Keeps prep simple and efficient for small batches. |
| 8-12 servings | 2 cutting boards, 2 knives, 1 grater, 1 whisk, 2 large bowls | Prevents overcrowding and speeds up the process for bigger groups. |
By using these tools, we ensure our Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw recipe is not only delicious but also straightforward to prepare at home.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our homemade Zoe’s Kitchen Cole Slaw is its ability to improve with time, as the flavors meld and the Mediterranean-inspired dressing infuses the crisp vegetables. We recommend preparing this coleslaw ahead to enhance its zesty, refreshing taste without compromising texture—perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Steps for Preparing Ahead
Follow these straightforward steps to make our coleslaw in advance, ensuring it remains vibrant and delicious:
- Prepare the Base: After combining the shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, parsley, and feta in a large mixing bowl as outlined in our preparation section, whisk together the dressing ingredients—extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, kosher salt, and black pepper—until emulsified. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. This step allows the flavors to start developing right away.
- Chill Immediately: Transfer the fully mixed coleslaw to an airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 1–2 hours, to let the ingredients absorb the bright, tangy notes from the lemon and garlic. Chilling not only enhances the dish’s sensory appeal—think crunchy bites with a harmonious blend of sweet and savory—but also makes it easier to serve later.
- Storage Tips for Optimal Freshness: To maintain the coleslaw’s crispness, store it in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Avoid adding delicate elements like feta cheese until just before serving if you’re making it more than a day ahead, as this prevents sogginess. For the best results, we suggest not exceeding 48 hours of storage to preserve the vegetables’ crisp, vibrant texture.
Storage Duration Guidelines
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (in an airtight container) | Up to 2 days | Best enjoyed within 24 hours for maximum crunch; stir before serving to redistribute dressing. |
| Not Recommended | Do not freeze | Freezing alters the texture, making vegetables mushy and less appealing. |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored this take on Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw with us. It’s a simple way to bring fresh, Mediterranean vibes to your table, elevating everyday meals effortlessly.
By trying this at home, you’ll discover how easy it is to craft something truly satisfying and shareable.
Let’s keep the kitchen adventures going—your next gathering deserves this zesty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw special?
Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw stands out for its Mediterranean twist, combining crisp vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and red onion with zesty flavors from feta, garlic, and a lemon-olive oil dressing. This fresh take on traditional coleslaw adds a vibrant, balanced taste that enhances any meal, making it a favorite for its refreshing and flavorful profile.
What ingredients are needed for this homemade coleslaw recipe?
You’ll need fresh veggies like shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red onion, chopped parsley, crumbled feta, and minced garlic. For the dressing, use extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, kosher salt, and black pepper. These simple ingredients capture the Mediterranean essence for a delicious, easy-to-make dish.
How do I prepare Zoe’s Kitchen coleslaw at home?
Start by prepping the vegetables: shred cabbage, grate carrots, and slice onion. Whisk together the dressing with olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Combine everything in a bowl, mix well, and chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. It’s a straightforward process that takes about 15-20 minutes of active prep.
What tools are required to make this coleslaw?
You’ll need a cutting board and sharp knife for chopping veggies, a box grater for carrots, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk for the dressing, and a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients. These basic tools ensure efficient prep and the perfect texture for your homemade version.
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep! Prepare the vegetables and dressing, mix them together, and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to two days. Chilling allows flavors to develop, but avoid freezing to keep the crisp texture. This makes it perfect for gatherings or busy days.
How can I scale this recipe for a larger group?
Easily scale by doubling or tripling the ingredients while keeping the ratios the same. For example, use more cabbage and adjust dressing accordingly. Use a larger bowl for mixing, and follow the same steps to maintain flavor and texture. It’s simple and efficient for feeding a crowd.