Recipe: Second Avenue Deli’s Health Salad

When you go to Second Avenue Deli, there are two things on the table, gratis, upon being seated: a bowl of dill pickles and a bowl of health salad. Health salad is their version of a cole slaw but it’s mayonnaise free. It is addictively delicious. I usually ask for a second bowl before I’ve even dined! And for years, I looked for a copycat recipe to no avail. When looking again recently, I saw that several bloggers including Jewish Recipes had taken the recipe out of the Second Avenue Deli’s cookbook and replicated it. Here is that version with slight adaptations by me.

Recipe Notes:
For ease, I use a pre-cut slaw in a bag. Like the one below. SO MUCH EASIER.

But if you have time or inclination, feel free to hand cut cabbage and veggies as the original recipe suggests.


Recipe: Second Avenue Deli’s Health Salad

1 14-ounce package of “old fashion slaw” mix
¾ c distilled white vinegar
2 T extra virgin olive oil
½ c sugar
1 T salt
½ t freshly ground pepper


To make the dressing, whisk together the vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Put the slaw in a large Tupperware with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the dressing over the slaw. Toss well. Cover and refrigerate the slaw, for at least 8 hours before serving. It should remain crisp and fresh tasting for 2 weeks, if you don’t gobble it up.