Cabbage is often overlooked as just another basic ingredient in slaws and stews, but this Coconut Cabbage Salad gives it a well-deserved spotlight. It’s light, bright, and just the right mix of creamy and crunchy – a tropical twist on your average salad that brings something truly special to the table.
The heart of the dish is, of course, shredded cabbage – crisp and refreshing. But what makes this salad stand out is the coconut. Whether it’s toasted flakes or a splash of coconut milk in the dressing, the addition brings a subtle sweetness and rich aroma that transforms the humble cabbage into something exotic and satisfying. It’s the kind of flavor that makes you think of beach days and sunshine, even if you’re just eating lunch at your desk.
To round it out, there’s often a tangy, citrusy dressing that ties everything together. Lime juice, ginger, garlic, and perhaps a dash of chili or sesame oil create a balance of flavors – sweet, salty, sour, and spicy – that makes each bite interesting. Add-ins like shredded carrots, green onions, or chopped peanuts only make it better.
This salad isn’t just about flavor. It’s also a great option for those who want something healthy, quick, and adaptable. It’s vegan-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep since it holds up well in the fridge. Serve it as a side with grilled tofu or fish, or pile it into a rice bowl for a light lunch.
Coconut Cabbage Salad is proof that salads don’t have to be boring. With just a few bold ingredients, it turns into a dish you’ll want to make again and again – fresh, flavorful, and full of feel-good vibes.

Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
- 1/4 cup mint leaves chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded coconut, chopped cilantro, chopped mint leaves, and chopped peanuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cabbage? Again? No thanks. Also, sounds like something my grandma would make. Dubious.
This recipe is too weird for me. Cabbage and coconut? Nah… I’ll keep my salads traditional. 1 star.
Not bad, but needed more dressing! I added extra lime and it was better. Just my opinion tho.
Yum! Love coconut! 💖
Yummm! I made it for a picnic and everyone loved it! 🌞
YUM! It’s fresh and light. I skipped the peanuts cause I’m allergic but still tasty!
Glad you liked it! The coconut adds a nice touch, doesn’t it? I bet it was still crunchy and refreshing without the peanuts!
Way too much lime! Gave me a stomachache. Maybe cut back?
I actually thought the lime was perfect! But everyone has different taste buds, I guess.
I wasn’t sure about mixing coconut with cabbage, but wow! It actually works! Nice job.
Love this recipe! I added some grilled chicken for protein. Yum!
Hmmm, not really my thing. Cabbage is usually in slaw, not salad. Thought it would be better.
This salad is delicious! The coconut adds such a unique flavor. Will def make again!
I totally agree! The coconut really sets it apart. Love the freshness of the herbs too!
Absolutely loved this salad! The flavors blend perfectly, especially with the lime juice. Will definitely make again!
This salad is a game changer! So refreshing!
Cabbage is gross. No offense, but I don’t want to eat this ever! Sorry!
This was super easy to make! Great for lunch.
I used apple instead of peanuts because I hate them. Still good!
I don’t like cilantro, can I use parsley instead?
Too many flavors for me. Might try it without the mint.
I understand! Mint can be strong. You could use basil or just leave it out. Good luck!
Why would you remove mint? It’s so fresh! Maybe try just a little bit of it.
Cabbage? Really????
This salad is soooo refreshing! The coconut really adds a unique flavor. Will definitely make again!
Cabbage salad? Why use cabbage!? It’s like eating cardboard, no thanks. Ugh!
I wasn’t sure about the peanuts… but it worked! Tasty mix of flavors, although a bit too sweet for my taste.
Too many ingredients! Why not jus use cabbage and lime? Not impressed!
I was skeptical about the coconut in a salad, but wow! It adds such a nice crunch. This is a winner!
Why is there honey in a salad? That sounds off.
Easy to make! Just threw everything in a bowl, but I forgot the lime juice. Still yum tho!
I was skeptical about the coconut and cabbage together, but it actually works! Who knew? Might add some grilled chicken next time.
This salad was so refreshing! I loved the combination of flavors and the crunch from the peanuts. Perfect for summer!
I totally agree! This salad is a summer delight! 🍉🥗
Not a fan. It was too sweet for my taste what with the honey. Maybe less honey would help?
Isn’t this just coleslaw with coconut? 🤔 It’s ok I guess, but I prefer traditional slaw.
Meh, I’ve had better salads. It was kinda boring after a few bites. 🙁
I dunno, sounds kinda weird. Cabbage and coconut? Really?
You’d be surprised! The coconut adds a nice sweetness to the crunch of the cabbage. Trust me, it’s good!
Easy to make and delicious! Made it for a picnic and everyone loved it. Didn’t even last an hour!