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Rainbow Chard Slaw

This vibrant rainbow chard slaw is a brilliant way to enjoy seasonal greens in a fresh, crunchy format. A colourful alternative to traditional coleslaw, this vegan dish combines the earthy notes of Swiss chard with purple cabbage and sweet carrots. The dressing is uniquely seasoned with warm spices like allspice and cinnamon, which perfectly complement the toasted notes of raw almonds and the tart sweetness of dried blueberries. It is a texturally diverse salad that feels both light and satisfying.

Ideal for meal prep or as a nutritious side dish for a summer barbecue, this salad actually improves with time as the chard absorbs the flavours of the herb-infused dressing. The addition of hemp seeds provides a boost of plant-based protein, making it a healthy choice for a light lunch or a vibrant addition to a festive buffet spread. Serve it chilled for the best results.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Rainbow Chard Slaw

  • 725ml shredded or finely chopped Swiss chard

  • 1 cup shredded purple cabbage

  • 1/4 cup shredded carrot

  • 70g chopped or slivered raw almonds (I like to soak them for 4 to 6 hours, time permitting)

  • 60ml macadamia-nut oil or olive oil (macadamia-nut oil gives this salad a unique flavour)

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon Vegenaise (optional)

  • 1/2 teaspoons allspice

  • 1/4 teaspoons cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoons nutmeg

  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh oregano, or 1/2 teaspoons dried

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, or 1/2 teaspoons dried

  • 1/4 teaspoons black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoons sea salt (optional)

  • 1 to 2 teaspoons xylitol or 1 packet stevia

  • 35g raw hemp seeds

  • 70g dried, unsweetened blueberries

How to make Rainbow Chard Slaw

  1. Combine chard, cabbage, carrot, and nuts in a large bowl.

  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine oil, vinegar, Vegenaise, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, oregano, basil, pepper, salt, and sweetener. Whisk until mixture is blended well.

  3. Toss with salad mix.

  4. Allow salad to refrigerate for 30 minutes prior to serving, if possible, so flavours can marry. (This salad actually tastes better the following day, after the flavours marry and the chard has a chance to absorb some of the dressing.)

  5. Top with hemp seeds and dried blueberries.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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