This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases.

This Easy Vegan Coleslaw Recipe is perfect for spring and summer get-togethers. You will love the creamy, tangy dressing made with tofu mayo.

Vegan coleslaw with creamy dressing in a wooden bowl.

Whether you're planning a summer BBQ or looking for a light side dish, this simple coleslaw recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Add it to smoky cauliflower tacos or make a delicious sandwich with blackened tofu.

If you're really looking to please a crowd for a summer cookout or a football party, serve it with BBQ tofu bites and vegan gluten-free cornbread!

Jump to:

Ingredients
How to Make Vegan Coleslaw
Ways to Serve Coleslaw
Storage
More Easy Side Dishes
📖 Recipe
💬 Comments

Ingredients

You will need these simple ingredients to make vegan coleslaw with tofu mayonnaise:

Coleslaw mix allows for easy preparation; make sure to buy a mix of green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots. You can also shred your own mix from fresh veggies.
Tofu mayo makes for an extra tangy and creamy coleslaw dressing. You can also use your favorite store-bought vegan mayonnaise brand.
Maple syrup sweetens the dressing; agave nectar or granulated sugar will also work.
Apple cider vinegar provides extra tang for the dressing. White vinegar or lemon juice will also work.
Celery seed gives you that classic coleslaw flavor.
Salt and black pepper enhance the overall flavor.

Please refer to the recipe card below for the full list of ingredients and detailed instructions.

How to Make Vegan Coleslaw

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the best vegan coleslaw:

Coleslaw dressing mixed together in a bowl.

1. Mix all the ingredients for the creamy coleslaw dressing in a small bowl.

2. Pour coleslaw dressing over the coleslaw mix in a large bowl.

Coleslaw and dressing mixed together in a large bowl on top of a red and white gingham napkin.

3. Mix until all of the coleslaw is coated in the dressing.

Top Tip

You can serve the coleslaw immediately, but it is best to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour so the flavors can meld!

Ways to Serve Coleslaw

Coleslaw is the perfect side dish; here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:

Tacos - Add tangy coleslaw to blackened tofu tacos, jackfruit tacos, or cauliflower tacos.
Grain Bowls - For an explosion of flavors, make a bowl with lemon quinoa, creamy coleslaw, pumpkin seeds, and spicy roasted chickpeas.
Sandwiches or Sliders - Make coleslaw sandwiches with blackened tofu, BBQ tofu nuggets, or barbeque “pulled pork” soy curls. Add coleslaw on top of your favorite veggie burgers.
With Cornbread - Throw together a whole spread of southern classics including gluten-free cornbread and baked beans.

Storage

Store vegan coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

It is best enjoyed within the first day or so when the flavors have melded and the cabbage still has some crunch. Over time, the salad will get limp and lose its crunch.

Creamy coleslaw in a small wooden bowl, a sandwich with coleslaw is in the background on top of a red and white gingham napkin.

More Easy Side Dishes

Did you make this recipe?
Please leave a rating and tell us how you liked it!

📖 Recipe

Easy Vegan Coleslaw Recipe

This Easy Vegan Coleslaw Recipe is perfect for spring and summer get-togethers. You will love the creamy, tangy dressing made with tofu mayo.

5 from 3 votes

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 5

Total Time: 5

Servings:

Author: Sarah Pilley

Ingredients

14 ounce coleslaw mix see notes

Homemade Coleslaw Dressing

½ cup tofu mayonnaise or store-bought mayo
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon celery seed
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Mix all the ingredients for the creamy dressing in a small bowl.
Pour coleslaw dressing over the coleslaw mix in a large mixing bowl.
Mix until all of the coleslaw is coated in the dressing.
Serve immediately, or let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

See more expert tips, pictures, and variations above for making the best vegan coleslaw!

Yield: about 5 cups; the volume slightly decreases once the creamy dressing is added

Storage: Store vegan coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Coleslaw Mix Notes: I used a 14-oz bag of coleslaw mix with pre-shredded cabbage and carrots for ease of preparation. A 16-oz bag will also work, it just won't have as much dressing. You can also chop/shred green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots by hand to make your own mix. Just make sure you have about 5 cups total.

Oil-Free: To make this coleslaw oil-free, leave the olive oil in the tofu mayo recipe.

Did you make this recipe? Share your experience! Mention @AlternativeDish on Instagram or Facebook, or drop a comment below—I'd love to hear from you!