Southwestern Style Cherry Juice Slaw

Quick Summary

Crisp, colorful, and packed with nutrients, this Southwestern Style Cherry Juice Slaw brings together cabbage, cherries, spinach, jicama, and a zesty lime dressing infused with Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate. It’s fresh, tangy, and full of Southwest flair.

Published: July 2011 | Updated: November 2025

Chef’s Note 

We first created this slaw during a Traverse Bay Farms summer food demo at our Bellaire store. It was 85 degrees, the grill was sizzling, and customers were looking for something light yet flavorful. We tossed together cherries, cabbage, and a splash of our Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate, and the result was so refreshing that people asked for seconds — and the recipe! It’s now one of my favorite warm-weather sides to pair with grilled chicken or salmon.

Prep & Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Slaw

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage

• 3 cups fresh sweet cherries, pitted and halved

• 2 cups torn fresh spinach leaves

• 1 cup shredded jicama

• 1 cup shredded carrot

• ½ cup snipped fresh cilantro

• ½ cup diced red onion

• ½ tsp Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 2 tbsp thawed lime juice concentrate

• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

• ½ tsp lime zest

• ½ tsp Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

• ¼ tsp each chili powder, ground cumin, and salt

Instructions

1. In a large serving bowl, combine cabbage, cherries, spinach, jicama, carrot, cilantro, red onion, and Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate.

2. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, lime juice, lime concentrate, jalapeño, lime zest, Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate, and seasonings.

3. Heat over medium heat just until it begins to boil, then remove from heat.

4. Pour the warm dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.

5. Chill 15–20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Add grilled corn for a smoky twist.

• Substitute purple cabbage for an even more colorful presentation.

• For added crunch, sprinkle with roasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds before serving.

Nutritional Highlight

Each serving delivers four full “5 A Day” fruit and vegetable servings — rich in fiber, vitamin C, and cherry-derived antioxidants that support overall wellness and recovery.

Behind the Recipe

This slaw captures what Traverse Bay Farms stands for — bright, healthy, award-winning flavors from Michigan-grown cherries. It’s proof that cherry juice isn’t just for drinks — it’s a natural, nutrient-packed ingredient that can elevate your meals.

People Also Ask

Can I make this cherry slaw ahead of time?
Yes — refrigerate for up to 24 hours; the flavors deepen beautifully.

Can I use tart cherries instead of sweet?
Absolutely, for a tangier profile.

Can I skip the jalapeño?
Yes, replace it with a diced red bell pepper for mild heat and color.

Is this slaw vegan?
Yes, it’s naturally plant-based and dairy-free.

Bring the Taste Home

Enhance your next meal with Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate — the only sediment-free guarantee in the cherry industry. Made using as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible, it’s your go-to ingredient for sweet, tangy, and naturally healthy flavor.

Check out the Michigan Cherry Recipe Cookbook, too!