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3 Cabbage Slaw

Recipe card by ElizabethKnicelyEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 15, 2026
3 Cabbage Slaw

Total time

10 min

Servings

4

Calories

56.2

Category

Oranges

The 3 Cabbage Slaw is a vibrant, textural masterpiece that balances the peppery crunch of napa, green, and red cabbage with a zesty citrus finish. It is an ideal side dish for home cooks seeking a budget-friendly, plant-based crowd-pleaser that comes together in just ten minutes.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

  • 2 napa cabbage
  • 1 1/2 green cabbage
  • 1/2 red cabbage
  • 1 fresh chives
  • 2 orange marmalade

Method

  1. In a large bowl, mix cabbage with chives.

  2. In a small bowl, combine orange juice, marmalade and ginger. Then pour over cabbage.

  3. Toss and serve.

  4. Serves 4.

Cook's notes

  • Slice your cabbages into long, thin ribbons using a mandoline to ensure the dressing clings evenly to every leaf.
  • Massage the shredded red cabbage with a pinch of salt before tossing to soften its naturally dense, waxy texture.
  • Whisk the marmalade into the orange juice vigorously to ensure the pectin emulsifies into a smooth, glaze-like dressing.
  • Wait to dress the salad until just before serving to maintain the signature crispness of the napa cabbage.

Easy swaps

  • Instead of Orange marmalade, use Apricot preservesOffers a similar viscosity and sweetness but with a slightly more floral, subtle undertone.
  • Instead of Napa cabbage, use Savoy cabbageProvides a similar ruffled texture and delicate mouthfeel if napa is unavailable.
  • Instead of Fresh chives, use Scallion greensUse the dark green parts only to maintain the mild, onion-forward bite of the original recipe.
  • Instead of Ginger, use Freshly grated turmericAdds an earthy warmth and a vibrant golden hue that complements the orange marmalade.

Frequently asked

Can I make this 3 Cabbage Slaw ahead of time?

You can prep and mix the shredded cabbages and chives in a bowl up to 24 hours in advance, but keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve.

Why use three different types of cabbage?

Using three varieties provides a professional aesthetic through color contrast while balancing the delicate tenderness of napa with the hearty crunch of green and red cabbage.

Is the marmalade too sweet for a side dish?

The marmalade acts as an emulsifier and sweetener that balances the natural bitterness of the red cabbage and the bite of the fresh ginger.

How fine should I chop the ingredients?

Aim for a chiffonade-style cut, roughly 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide, to ensure the slaw is easy to eat and perfectly coated in the orange dressing.

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