Apple Slaw with Marinated Mushrooms

American picnic tables have long loved a crisp cabbage slaw, and this version leans into that tradition with a savory twist. Quick-marinated mushrooms and tart apples bring umami and crunch to the shredded greens without any cooking.

Serves 4 · 25 min prep

Estimate for one serving

• 195 cal
• 5g protein
• 24g carbs
• 10g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 12 oz cremini or button mushrooms
• 2 large crisp apples
• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrot
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1, minced garlic clove
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• 1/3 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions

Instructions

1. 1Wipe the mushrooms clean and slice them thin so they absorb marinade quickly and stay tender-crisp.
2. 2Whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a medium bowl until combined.
3. 3Add the sliced mushrooms to the marinade, toss well, and let them sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes, stirring once so every slice soaks up flavor.
4. 4While mushrooms marinate, core the apples and cut them into thin matchsticks; toss immediately with a splash of apple cider vinegar to keep them bright.
5. 5In a large serving bowl combine shredded cabbage, carrot, apple matchsticks, scallions, and most of the cilantro.
6. 6Whisk the remaining apple cider vinegar with neutral oil, salt, and pepper for a light slaw dressing.
7. 7Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is lightly coated and glossy.
8. 8Lift the marinated mushrooms from their liquid (reserve a spoonful of marinade) and fold them through the slaw so the dish stays crunchy and fresh.
9. 9Drizzle a little reserved marinade over the top if you want extra savoriness, then finish with sesame seeds and remaining cilantro.
10. 10Serve chilled or cool on a platter so guests can scoop generous portions; it travels well and stays crisp for a backyard lunch spread.