Nando’s Coleslaw Calories, Ingredients, Price, Reviews & Rainbow Slaw Comparison
Craving something creamy to calm that peri-peri kick? Nando’s Coleslaw might be exactly what your plate is missing. It’s fresh, crunchy, and smooth, balancing the bold flavour of grilled chicken on the Nando’s Menu UK perfectly.
A Regular serving costs £4.25, while the Large, ideal for two, is £7.25 with around 240 kcal per portion. Made with finely shredded cabbage and carrots in a lightly spiced, herby mayonnaise, it feels cool and refreshing. It’s not vegan or dairy-free since the creamy dressing includes both egg and milk, but it is vegetarian-friendly.
This guide covers everything about Nando’s Coleslaw, ingredients, calories, allergens, and even a simple homemade recipe. It also explores how it compares with Nando’s Rainbow Slaw, helping readers choose the side that adds more freshness.
What is Nando’s Coleslaw?
Coleslaw is a chilled side dish made from crunchy, chopped vegetables mixed with a lightly spiced, herby mayonnaise. It’s creamy, refreshing, and designed to cool down the heat of Nando’s famous PERi-PERi chicken.
Each serving brings a soft crunch and mild flavour that pairs beautifully with grilled mains. According to Nando’s official menu, each serving contains around 240 kcal and is vegetarian-friendly. You can choose a Regular size for £4.25 or a Large for £7.25, which serves two people.
It’s available across all UK branches, whether you’re dining in, ordering takeaway, or getting delivery online. Though simple, it’s one of the most consistent favourites for those who love to balance with bold flavour.
Coleslaw Price & Value
On the UK menu, a side of Nando’s Coleslaw is priced at £4.25 for a Regular and £7.25 for a Large.
By comparison:
- Rainbow Slaw also runs around £4.25 for a regular side.
- Macho Peas typically price similarly, offering a lighter calorie count.
- Garlic Bread tends to be a cheaper side but often higher in refined carbs and calories.
Value Ranking
- If you want a creamy side that complements spice well, Coleslaw at £4.25 for the Regular size gives strong value.
- If your priority is lower calories or lighter texture, Rainbow Slaw or Macho Peas may offer better value per calorie.
- The Large size of Coleslaw (£7.25) can make sense for sharing, but it nearly doubles the cost and calories, less ideal for those tracking intake.
Nando’s Coleslaw Calories & Nutrition
For those who like to track what’s on their plate, Nando’s Coleslaw is a light but creamy side worth checking in the Nando’s Nutritional Information section. It’s made from fresh vegetables and a herby mayonnaise dressing that adds smooth texture without too many calories.
Regular Portion (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
Energy | 240 kcal / 1005 kJ |
Fat | 18.2 g |
Saturates | 1.4 g |
Carbohydrates | 11.6 g |
Sugars | 10.6 g |
Fibre | 2.3 g |
Protein | 1.5 g |
Salt | 0.8 g |
Large Portion (serves two)
Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
Energy (kcal) | 480 |
Energy (kJ) | 2009 |
Fat (g) | 36.5 |
Of which saturates (g) | 2.7 |
Carbohydrates (g) | 23.1 |
Of which sugars (g) | 21.3 |
Fibre (g) | 4.6 |
Protein (g) | 3 |
Salt (g) | 1.5 |
What Do These Numbers Mean?
Nando’s Coleslaw is moderate in calories and lighter in saturated fat than most creamy sides. Its smooth texture comes from a mayonnaise base, but it doesn’t taste oily or heavy.
Most of the sugar and carbs come naturally from the vegetables, not added sweeteners. A bit of fibre keeps it satisfying and helps balance heavier mains like chicken or spicy rice. It’s an easy fit for anyone following a calorie-aware or balanced eating plan.
Macro Breakdown & Nutritional Balance
In terms of macros, this side leans higher in fat but lower in protein because it’s plant-based.
It’s best seen as a flavourful companion, not a nutrient-dense dish.
Adding a lean main, like grilled chicken breast or a spicy rice bowl, makes the overall meal well-balanced and filling. Those counting macros can enjoy it guilt-free as long as portion sizes stay reasonable.
Which Size Offers Better Value?
Nando’s offers two sizes, Regular and Large. The Regular serving gives a satisfying portion with fewer calories and less fat, ideal for one person.
The Large is designed for sharing and suits groups or families, though it doubles the calories. If nutrition and control matter, the Regular option offers the best value for calories, taste, and balance.
Is Nando’s Coleslaw Healthy?
Overall, Nando’s Coleslaw can be considered a moderately healthy choice when eaten in the right portion. It provides freshness, fibre, and crunch, adding a lighter feel to spicy, grilled meals.
The mayo adds fat, so it’s not ideal for low-fat diets, but it’s far from a heavy or processed option. For balanced eating, pair it with grilled proteins or a side salad; that way, the meal stays light yet satisfying.
Nando’s Coleslaw Ingredients & Dressing Profile
Nando’s Coleslaw is simple but carefully balanced, with ingredients that make it fresh, crunchy, and creamy.
Major Ingredients:
- Shredded white and red cabbage: provides crunch and natural sweetness
- Carrots: add colour, fibre, and subtle sweetness
- Red onion (sometimes included): gives a mild bite and extra flavour.
- Mayonnaise-based dressing: the creamy element that binds the salad
- Lemon or vinegar: adds a tangy freshness
- Pepper and mild spices: give a subtle herby kick without overpowering
Dressing Profile
The dressing is creamy, mildly spiced, and herby, with a hint of lemon or vinegar that keeps it light and refreshing. It’s smooth enough to coat the vegetables evenly, but not so heavy that it feels greasy.
Texture & Taste:
- The crisp vegetables provide a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- The creamy dressing adds richness without masking the natural freshness of the cabbage and carrots.t
- The mild tang from lemon or vinegar balances the mayo’s creaminess.
- Overall, it’s a side that refreshes the palate and pairs perfectly with spicy or grilled mains.
Value Insight:
Unlike typical coleslaw, Nando’s keeps a balance between creaminess and crunch, making it a side that’s enjoyable, not overly rich, and adds freshness to heavy meals. It’s not just a filler, it’s a thoughtful complement to flame-grilled chicken or other PERi-PERi favourites.
Nando’s Coleslaw Ingredients with Portions
Ingredient / Element | Regular Portion | Large Portion | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Cabbage (white & red) | Moderate | Double | Provides crunch, natural sweetness, and fibre |
Carrots | Small amount | Double | Adds colour, fibre, and subtle sweetness |
Red Onion | Optional | Optional | Gives a mild bite, extra flavour |
Mayonnaise Dressing | Light coating | Extra coating | Creamy texture, binds salad, slightly rich |
Lemon / Vinegar | Hint | Slightly more | Adds tanginess, balances creaminess |
Pepper & Mild Spices | Subtle | Subtle | Enhances flavour without overpowering |
Insight:
- The Regular portion is ideal for one person, with enough crunch, freshness, and creamy taste.
- The Large portion is best for sharing or with heavier mains, but doubles the fat and calories.
- The balance of crisp vegetables + creamy, mildly spiced dressing makes it refreshing and satisfying, even for calorie-conscious meals.
Allergens & Dietary Considerations
For anyone checking before ordering, Nando’s Coleslaw is listed in the Nando’s Allergen Menu UK for transparency on allergens and dietary restrictions.
It’s always best to double-check in-store or online since recipes can change, and cross-contamination is possible in a busy kitchen.
Key Allergen Facts:
- Dairy: The creamy mayonnaise contains egg and milk, so it is not dairy-free.
- Egg: Present in the dressing.
- Mustard: Listed as an allergen.
- Onions: Sometimes included depending on the branch/recipe.
Gluten Consideration:
- The ingredients themselves may be gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible, so those with celiac disease should take caution.
Dietary Suitability:
- Vegetarian: Yes, suitable for vegetarian diets.
- Vegan: No, contains egg and dairy.
- Dairy-free: No, contains egg and milk.
- Other special diets: Best consumed by those without egg, mustard, or dairy restrictions.
Allergen Table
Allergen | Present? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Egg | Yes | Comes from mayonnaise dressing |
Mustard | Yes | Present in seasoning |
Dairy (Milk) | Yes | Part of the creamy dressing |
Gluten | No* | Ingredients may be gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible |
Nando’s Coleslaw vs. Rainbow Slaw
For anyone deciding which side to pair with their meal, here’s a practical comparison between Coleslaw, Rainbow Slaw, and Macho Peas. This table looks at taste, calories, texture, and best pairings.
Side | Taste | Calories (Regular) | Texture | Best Served With |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Coleslaw | Creamy, mildly tangy | 240 kcal | Crunchy vegetables + smooth dressing | Grilled chicken, wraps, spicy mains |
Rainbow Slaw | Tangy, slightly sweet | ~200 kcal | Crunchy with lighter dressing | Spicy mains, salads, lighter meals |
Macho Peas | Savoury, buttery | ~180 kcal | Soft, mashed pea texture | Rice dishes, wraps, and mains needing a lighter side |
Which to Choose:
- Choose Coleslaw if you want a creamy side that balances spice and adds richness.
- Choose Rainbow Slaw for a lighter, tangier option or slightly fewer calories.
- Choose Macho Peas if you want a softer texture or a lighter, simpler vegetable side.
- Vegan options: Rainbow Slaw or Macho Peas (Coleslaw contains egg and dairy).
- For sharing or bigger portions, Coleslaw Large offers indulgence but doubles calories.
Value Insight:
Each side has its own purpose: Coleslaw for indulgence, Rainbow Slaw for freshness, Macho Peas for simplicity. Choosing depends on your meal goals, dietary preferences, and calorie considerations.
Coleslaw Meal Combo: Price & Calories
This section shows the ultimate pairing: Nando’s Coleslaw with a flame-grilled chicken main, including Regular vs. Large sides, total calories, and total price.
Component | Portion | Price | Calories | Notes / Value Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Flame-grilled chicken breast | 1 piece | £8.95 | 250 kcal | Lean protein pairs perfectly with creamy coleslaw |
Nando’s Coleslaw | Regular | £4.25 | 240 kcal | Creamy, crunchy, balances spice; ideal single-serving side |
Total | — | £13.20 | 490 kcal | Balanced, satisfying, moderate calories |
Nando’s Coleslaw | Large | £7.25 | 480 kcal | Perfect for sharing with 2 people or an indulgent pairing |
Total (with Large) | — | £16.20 | 730 kcal | Great for a bigger meal; almost doubles calories and price |
Value Insights
- Regular Coleslaw + chicken = the best single-serving combo for taste, texture, and moderate calories.
- Large Coleslaw is ideal for sharing or when extra creaminess is desired.
- This combo balances protein, creamy texture, and freshness, making it a top choice over fries or heavier sides.
Optional Alternatives
- Wraps or burgers can replace the chicken breast for variety, but the classic grilled chicken + coleslaw combo offers the best calorie-to-flavour ratio.
Nando’s Coleslaw Reviews
⭐ 1. “Surprisingly Creamy & Fresh!”
“Didn’t expect much from a side, but Nando’s coleslaw hits differently, it’s light, crunchy, and not overloaded with mayo.”
Source: TripAdvisor UK – Nando’s Customer Reviews
⭐ 2. “Perfect Pair with Grilled Chicken”
“Always order coleslaw with my quarter chicken, balances out the spice perfectly. Cold, creamy and refreshing every time.”
Source: Google Reviews – Nando’s UK Locations
⭐ 3. “Good But a Bit Pricey for the Portion”
“Tastes great, but sometimes the portion feels small for the price. Still my go-to side on cheat days.”
Source: Reddit – r/Nandos Thread
⭐ 4. “Tried Recreating It at Home, Almost Nailed It!”
“The creaminess is the hardest to match, but Nando’s version still wins for its freshness and tang.”
Source: Easy Peasy Foodie Recipe Comments
⭐ 5. “Better Than Most Fast-Food Coleslaws”
“Not overly sweet like KFC’s, you can actually taste the cabbage and carrots!”
Source: Cup of Yum Blog
Closure: Is Nando’s Coleslaw Worth Getting?
Nando’s Coleslaw stands out as a creamy, crunchy, and refreshing side that balances the bold flavours of flame-grilled chicken and wraps.
Pros:
- Taste: Mildly tangy, creamy, and herby, pairs perfectly with spicy mains.
- Texture: Crisp vegetables with smooth dressing create a satisfying bite.
- Value: Regular size (£4.25) offers a good balance of portion, flavour, and price.
- Calories: Moderate for a creamy side (240 kcal Regular, 480 kcal Large).
Cons:
- Higher in fat and sugar due to the mayonnaise dressing.
- Not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets.
- A large portion nearly doubles calories and price, best for sharing.
Recommendation:
Nando’s Peri-Peri Coleslaw is a great creamy side to balance spicy mains or wraps.
If your goal is lighter eating or a dairy-free option, consider Rainbow Slaw or Macho Peas instead.
