Crisp Summer Slaw Recipe with Lemon-Dill Dressing

This Summer Slaw updates a classic southern coleslaw with bright summer vegetables — cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions — all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Simple to prepare and an ideal side for warm weather gatherings.

Summer Slaw

This summer slaw is creamy, tangy, and full of fresh vegetables: shredded cabbage and carrots with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and thinly sliced green onions. A homemade dressing brings everything together for a refreshing side dish.

It comes together quickly and pairs perfectly with backyard grilled favorites and picnic fare. Serve it with burgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, grilled chicken, smoked brisket, or any hearty main where a crisp, cool side is welcome.

What Is the Difference Between Summer Slaw and Coleslaw?

The base of this summer slaw is very similar to a traditional family-style coleslaw. The main difference is the addition of seasonal vegetables — especially cherry tomatoes and cucumber — which brighten the flavor and texture and give the slaw a fresh summer twist.

What Makes Slaw Different from a Salad?

Slaw is a form of salad built around raw vegetables tossed in a dressing. What usually distinguishes slaw is the fine shredding of primary vegetables like cabbage and carrots, which creates a particular texture and mouthfeel. This summer slaw keeps that classic shredded base while adding summer produce.

Summer Slaw Variations

This recipe is delicious as written, but it’s flexible. Here are some easy ways to vary it:

• Extra vegetables – Add whatever you have on hand. Mild vegetables such as zucchini or radish blend in well; stronger flavors like bell pepper will change the overall taste more noticeably.
• Broccoli slaw – Substitute half the shredded cabbage with shredded broccoli for a different texture.
• Olive oil – Swap mayo for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a lighter, oil-based dressing. Choose a mild, non-bitter oil for the best flavor.
• Yogurt – Use plain yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangy, lower-fat option.
• Fresh herbs – Toss in chopped parsley, dill, or oregano for added freshness and color.
• Nuts or seeds – Sunflower seeds, pepitas, hemp seeds, chia seeds, or chopped nuts such as walnuts, cashews, or pecans add crunch and richness.
• Beans – Add canned or cooked beans (cannellini, black beans, pinto, or kidney) to boost protein and make the slaw more filling.

More Summer Salad Recipes You’ll Love

• Best Southern Potato Salad – a creamy potato salad with tender potatoes and hard-boiled eggs in a classic, slightly spicy dressing.
• Pizza Pasta Salad – pasta mixed with pepperoni, bell peppers, and tomatoes in a zesty Italian-style dressing.
• Jicama Slaw – shredded jicama with cabbage and carrots tossed with cilantro in a sweet-spicy dressing.
• Dill Pickle Pasta Salad – a tang-forward pasta salad with baby dill pickles and a bright dill dressing.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad – the flavors of street corn combined with fresh summer vegetables for a lively side dish.

Summer Slaw Video