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Winter Slaw With Red Pears and Pumpkin Seeds

This vibrant winter slaw with red pears and pumpkin seeds is a beautiful celebration of seasonal produce. Combining the earthy notes of shaved beetroot with the refreshing sweetness of ripe red-skinned pears, this vegan salad offers a sophisticated alternative to traditional coleslaw. The base of Brussels sprouts and radicchio provides a satisfying crunch and a hint of pleasant bitterness, all tied together by a bright, zingy blood orange and Dijon mustard dressing.

As a versatile plant-based dish, it works perfectly as a light lunch or a colourful side for a Sunday roast. The addition of roasted pumpkin seeds adds a layer of nutty flavour and essential texture, making it as nutritionally balanced as it is visually striking. Whether you are hosting a festive gathering or looking for a healthy, crisp winter salad, this recipe brings a fresh, modern touch to the table.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Winter Slaw With Red Pears and Pumpkin Seeds

  • 60ml fresh blood orange or regular orange juice

  • 60ml olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts

  • 2 firm but ripe red-skinned pears, cut into quarters, cored, thinly sliced

  • 1 bunch small beets, trimmed, peeled, thinly shaved on a mandoline

  • 4 cups mixed radicchio leaves, torn if large

  • 35g unsalted, roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

Whisk orange juice, oil, vinegar, and mustard in a small bowl to combine. Season dressing with salt and pepper.

Trim brussels sprouts and halve lengthwise. Remove larger leaves; place in a large bowl. Very thinly slice remaining cores; place in bowl with leaves. Add half of dressing and toss to coat; season with salt and pepper. Massage brussels sprouts gently to soften slightly. Add pears, beets, radicchio, and remaining dressing and toss well; season with salt and pepper. Serve slaw topped with pumpkin seeds.

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.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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