Sweet and Sour Cabbage and Kale Slaw

One of the best ways to support your gut health is by filling your plate with fiber-rich, plant-forward foods, and this Sweet and Sour Cabbage and Kale Slaw is a perfect example.

Kale and cabbage are both cruciferous vegetables packed with compounds that support detoxification and metabolic health, along with prebiotic fiber that helps feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. And the figs? Many people don’t realize that figs are actually a flower, and they’re naturally rich in soluble fiber that supports digestion and helps keep your microbiome thriving.

The creamy dressing combines coconut yogurt, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses for the perfect balance of tangy and slightly sweet. Massaging the kale softens the leaves and helps them absorb the dressing, creating a slaw that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

The result is a bright, refreshing side dish that’s delicious served chilled or at room temperature, perfect for a light lunch or alongside your favorite meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups thinly sliced kale, ribs removed

  • ½ teaspoon iodized sea salt

  • 1 cup coconut yogurt

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses or balsamic reduction

  • 2 cups thinly sliced cabbage

  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup dried figs (no sugar added), diced

Instructions

  1. Massage the kale
    Place the sliced kale in a large bowl. Add the sea salt and gently massage the leaves with your hands for about 1–2 minutes until the kale softens and becomes tender.

  2. Prepare the dressing
    In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, and pomegranate molasses (or balsamic reduction) until smooth and well combined.

  3. Assemble the slaw
    Pour the dressing over the kale and toss to coat evenly. Add the cabbage, red onion, and diced figs, then mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.

  4. Serve and enjoy
    This slaw is delicious chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect side dish for a light lunch or alongside your favorite lectin-free meal.

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Dr. Steven Gundry

Dr. Steven Gundry is a renowned heart surgeon, restorative medicine practitioner, microbiome expert, and four-time New York Times bestselling author of “The Plant Paradox” and more.

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