It’s great paired with my Jackfruit BBQ Sandwiches, these Portobello Mushroom Burgers OR my notable Veggie Burger recipe.

Why you’ll love this reliable summer side dish!

Summer recipes are my all time go-to recipes to create so now that the days are getting longer and the weather is truly warming up, I’ve had so much fun in the kitchen lately! Every year we host a big summer cookout and this method will certainly be there!

Admittedly, coleslaw isn’t exactly a summer recipe but it feels like it to me (especially paired with good vegan burgers!). Every summer get together and BBQ that I attend seems to have coleslaw and I’m never sad about it:) Knowing my typical audience, I figured that you *might* be in the need of an straightforward vegan coleslaw recipe this summer so let’s do it.

Done in 10 minutes with minimal prep
Made with simple, everyday ingredients
Completely dairy-free and egg-free
It’s the reliable side dish for your next BBQ, potluck, or meal prep

Ingredients needed

The simple ingredients for this old-school vegan coleslaw recipe are listed fully down in the recipe card but let’s briefly go over the pantry staples needed including a few substitutions you can make as desired!

Bag of coleslaw mix – the shortcut that makes this dish so fast; swap with 1/3 each green shredded cabbage, red cabbage, and carrot if you prefer fresh. While not long-used, you could also use napa cabbage as desired.
Vegan mayo – vegan mayonnaise is the creamy base of the dressing; any store-bought brand works great.
Maple syrup – adds only the right amount of sweetness; agave works as a swap.
Apple cider vinegar – gives the dressing that old-school tangy coleslaw flavor.
Lemon juice – brightens everything up with a little extra acidity.
Salt and pepper – season to taste, keeping in mind how salty your mayo already is.
Optional additions that Worth keeping – green onion + sunflower seeds.

How to cook this creamy vegan coleslaw

Only a reminder that you can find the FULL simple vegan coleslaw recipe down in the recipe card, but I want to quickly go over how to make them with visuals for you:)

Step 1 – Make the vegan coleslaw dressing by whisking together the mayo, maple syrup, vinegar, lemon juice, and salt and pepper in a small bowl.
Step 2 – Mix the veggies in a large mixing bowl and top with the dressing. Toss to combine and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

Don’t dress it too early! If making ahead, keep the dressing and slaw separate until only before serving so it doesn’t get soggy.
Taste the dressing before tossing. The saltiness of vegan mayo varies by brand, so adjust salt accordingly.
Let it chill for 15–20 minutes in the fridge before serving if you have time because the flavors get even better.
Double the dressing if you like a saucier slaw!