If you are looking for a light and tasty vegan side dish to accompany your Middle Eastern dishes, you will love this Lebanese Slaw (also known as Salatet Malfouf). It is made with shredded cabbage, fresh herbs, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and scallions. It has a crunchy texture and a zesty flavor that will brighten up any meal.
I first tasted this Lebanese Slaw at a Lebanese restaurant in Southern California where I grew up. It was called Salatat Malfouf and it was served with grilled chicken shawarma, falafels, and zaatar meatballs. I was hooked by the simple yet delicious combination of ingredients. It was a perfect contrast to the rich and savory main dishes.
This Lebanese Slaw is very easy to make and you can customize it with other seasonal vegetables or herbs. You can add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, or even feta cheese if you like. Today I am keeping it basic and traditional.
Ingredients for Lebanese Slaw
- 16 ounces shredded cabbage (1/2 of a large green cabbage)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 – 3 scallions, sliced
- 1 – 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or use a garlic press
- 1/2 – 1 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice, and more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 – 2 teaspoons zaatar (optional)
How to Make Lebanese Slaw
- Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss well.
- Add the scallions, garlic, parsley, mint, and dill. Toss again.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, sugar, and zaatar (if using).
- Drizzle the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lemon juice, or zaatar as needed.
- Enjoy as a side dish or a salad.
This Lebanese Slaw will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
What to Serve with Lebanese Slaw
This Lebanese Slaw is a great accompaniment to any Middle Eastern dish. Here are some of my favorites:
- Zaatar Meatballs with Green Tahini Sauce
- Lebanese Chicken with 7-Spice
- Grilled Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Baked Chicken Shawarma (vegan adaptable!)
- Authentic Falafel Recipe with Creamy Tahini Sauce
I hope you enjoy this Lebanese Slaw as much as I do. It is a refreshing and healthy way to add some crunch and flavor to your meals. Let me know what you think in the comments below!
