Bok Choy, Carrot, and Apple Slaw Recipe
If you’re looking for a fresh, crisp, and healthy salad to add a burst of flavor to your meals, this Bok Choy, Carrot, and Apple Slaw is the perfect choice. Originally adapted from Everyday Food magazine, this easy-to-make slaw requires minimal prep and no cooking. Whether you’re trying to keep your meals light or just want a simple side dish, this slaw brings together the earthy crunch of bok choy, the sweetness of apples, and the vibrant zing of fresh lemon and ginger. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a low-fat, low-cholesterol, or low-protein dish thatβs packed with fiber and nutrients.
With a prep time of just 20 minutes, this slaw is not only fast but also budget-friendly. The ingredients are simple and often found in your kitchen already, making this a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients for Bok Choy, Carrot, and Apple Slaw
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Baby bok choy | 3 heads |
| Coarse salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Apple (any variety) | 1 |
| Carrot | 1 |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 1/2 tbsp |
| Canola oil | 1 1/2 tbsp |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1/2 tsp |
| Freshly ground pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 66.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 2.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 815.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 11.8 g |
| Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugars | 7.9 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
Instructions for Preparing Bok Choy, Carrot, and Apple Slaw
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Prepare the Bok Choy
Start by cutting the baby bok choy in half lengthwise. Trim off the tough stem at the base, as well as any damaged or bruised leafy tops. It’s important to wash each half thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt. Once rinsed, slice the bok choy crosswise into thin strips. -
Rinse and Drain
Place all of the bok choy strips into a colander. Rinse lightly under cold water to ensure they are clean, then shake the colander gently to remove excess water. To help drain the water further, place a plate that fits inside the colander over the bok choy. Weight the plate down with a canned good or another heavy object, allowing the bok choy to drain for a few minutes while you prep the other ingredients. -
Prepare the Apple and Carrot
While the bok choy is draining, peel the carrot and cut it into matchstick-sized pieces. Do the same with the apple, slicing it thinly and cutting it into matchsticks to match the size of the carrot pieces. Combine the apple and carrot matchsticks in a medium mixing bowl. -
Make the Dressing
In the same bowl, add the fresh lemon juice, canola oil, and freshly grated ginger. The lemon juice will give a nice tang to the salad, while the ginger adds a zesty freshness. Stir these ingredients together to create the dressing. -
Combine Everything
After the bok choy has been properly drained, add it to the bowl with the apple and carrot. Toss everything gently to combine. -
Season and Chill
Sprinkle the slaw with 1/2 teaspoon of coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give everything one last good stir to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Refrigerate the slaw for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips for a Perfect Bok Choy, Carrot, and Apple Slaw
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For Extra Crunch: If you love your slaw with even more crunch, consider adding a handful of toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or cashews. This will enhance both the texture and flavor of the slaw.
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Make Ahead: This slaw can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, so feel free to make it the night before a big meal or event.
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Swap the Apples: Depending on what you have available or your flavor preference, feel free to swap out the apple for another crisp fruit, like a pear or a firm, tart green apple. Just ensure the fruit maintains a good crunch to balance the soft bok choy.
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Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, but if you want to make it even lighter, you can swap the canola oil for another oil of your choice, like avocado oil, for a healthier fat option.
This Bok Choy, Carrot, and Apple Slaw is an incredibly versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to a fresh seafood dish. Its crispness and fresh, vibrant flavors make it an excellent choice for a light lunch, a picnic side dish, or a refreshing topping for tacos or sandwiches. With a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, this slaw will become your go-to recipe for easy, wholesome meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy nights or last-minute meal prep.
- Healthy: Packed with fiber and vitamin-rich ingredients, itβs a low-calorie, low-fat side dish that fits into almost any diet plan.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your liking β whether you want to add a bit of heat with some chili flakes or toss in a few herbs like cilantro for extra freshness.
Enjoy this delicious, light slaw as a standalone dish or as the perfect complement to your favorite meals.
