For the Slaw:
1 head green cabbage, shredded
1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
1 large carrot, shredded or chopped
3/4 cup cucumber, diced or cut into strips
1/2 cup radish, diced
1/3 cup green onion, diced
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
Generous drizzle of Mighty Sesame’s Whole Seed Tahini
For the Summer Slaw Dressing:
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
3 tbsp coconut aminos (or gluten-free tamari)
1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1/2 cup Mighty Sesame’s Whole Seed Tahini Squeeze Bottle
Water, as needed to thin
Directions
- In a large bowl toss together shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumber, radish, and green onion.
- To make the dressing, place all ingredients into a food processor or blender.
- Pulse until smooth, adding in additional water if the dressing is too thick.
- Use about 2/3 cup dressing, toss in the salad.
- Top with chopped hazelnuts and a drizzle of Mighty Sesame Tahini
- Refrigerate the summer slaw until ready to serve (best enjoyed within 1-2 days).
- Save the rest of the dressing for another use, it will store well in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
Why We Love This Summer Slaw Recipe
This recipe celebrates everything we love about summer slaw: it’s colorful, versatile, and easy to throw together. The combination of raw, crunchy vegetables with the richness of the tahini creates a medley of flavors that’s comforting yet refreshing. It’s a go-to for anyone who wants to eat clean without sacrificing flavor.
More than just tasty, this summer slaw recipe is also completely vegan and gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for cookouts and gatherings with mixed dietary needs. It’s perfect for lunch prep too — just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
A Fresh Take on Summer Slaw
Unlike traditional creamy slaws overloaded with mayo, this version is bright, plant-based, and full of natural ingredients. Shredded cabbage gives it a hearty crunch, while carrot, radish, and cucumber add subtle sweetness and crisp texture. The star of the show is, of course, the summer slaw dressing — made with Mighty Sesame Whole Seed Tahini, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of cumin for a bold, earthy flavor.
This summer slaw stands out because of its balance: creamy yet light, crunchy yet smooth, tangy yet nutty. It works well as a stand-alone salad or as a companion to grilled mains, wraps, or grain bowls.
Nutritional Benefits of This Tahini-Powered Dish
Cabbage, a main ingredient in this summer slaw, is rich in fiber and antioxidants. Paired with carrots and radishes, it provides a wide range of vitamins such as A, C, and K. Cucumbers bring hydration and crunch without many calories, while green onions add a light sharpness that balances the creamy dressing.
Mighty Sesame Co. Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, is a nutritional standout. It’s high in healthy fats, plant-based protein, calcium, and iron. When used as the base for this summer slaw dressing, tahini adds both flavor and functional benefits. The natural fats in tahini help the body absorb fat-soluble nutrients like vitamin K from the veggies in the slaw.
Adding chopped hazelnuts boosts the healthy fat and protein content even further, making this more than just a side—it’s a satisfying meal in its own right.
Tips to Customize Your Summer Slaw
- Switch up the veggies: Try adding thinly sliced bell peppers, shredded beets, or kale for variety.
- Add grains: Toss in some cooked quinoa or farro to bulk it up into a main dish.
- Make it spicy: A touch of chili flakes or a minced jalapeño can add a kick if you’re craving heat.
- Serve it different ways: Use this slaw in wraps, over grilled tofu, or on top of tacos.
No matter how you serve it, this summer slaw recipe with tahini dressing offers a fresh and satisfying option for warmer days.
How to Store and Serve
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator. This summer slaw holds up well for 1–2 days, though for best texture, enjoy it fresh. If meal-prepping, store the slaw and dressing separately and mix just before serving.
The remaining dressing is perfect to drizzle over roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or even as a dip for crudités. It’s a great way to get more use out of one simple, delicious tahini dressing.
Why Tahini is a Game-Changer for Summer Slaw Dressing
Traditional slaw dressings can be heavy and full of processed ingredients. This version, made with Mighty Sesame Co. Tahini, transforms the typical summer side into something nutritious and gourmet.
The smooth, creamy texture of tahini makes it an ideal base for dressings like in this summer slaw. It blends easily with lemon juice and vinegar, creating a dressing that clings to vegetables without feeling greasy or overly thick. It also naturally complements the flavors of cumin and garlic, giving the slaw a Mediterranean-inspired flair.
If you’re used to seeing tahini only in hummus or sauces, this summer slaw dressing will open up a world of new possibilities. Tahini brings depth and creaminess while keeping the dish dairy-free, nut-free (except for the optional hazelnuts), and full of plant-based goodness.
Share Your Summer Slaw Creations!
Made your own version of this summer slaw with tahini? We’d love to see it! Snap a photo and tag us on Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook using #MightySesameSnacks. We’re always sharing our favorite creations — yours might be featured next!
For more tahini inspiration, recipe ideas, and quick kitchen tips, be sure to follow Mighty Sesame Co. on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Discover just how versatile and delicious tahini can be.
