Coleslaw Recipe

If there’s one side dish that screams summer and simplicity, it has to be this Coleslaw Recipe. Imagine heaps of crisp green and purple cabbage, sweet carrots, and a creamy, tangy dressing that brings everything together in one bowl of crunchy perfection. Whether you’re heading to a picnic, backyard barbecue or potluck, this Coleslaw Recipe is always a star— fresh, colorful, and a total crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Coleslaw Recipe shines because of its short ingredient list, but don’t underestimate the magic that happens when these familiar components come together. Each ingredient balances out the others for a dish that’s vibrant in color and irresistible in taste.

• Green cabbage: The classic base, delivering crunch and mild sweetness that soaks up the dressing beautifully.
• Purple cabbage: Adds gorgeous color and a slightly sharper, peppery note to the mix.
• Carrots: Lend a gentle sweetness and a pretty orange hue—add more if you love a carrot-heavy slaw!
• Mayonnaise: The backbone of the coleslaw dressing, making everything creamy and lush.
• Apple cider vinegar: Brings lively tang that balances all the richness; white vinegar works well too.
• White sugar: Just a touch boosts the cabbage’s natural sweetness and mellows the acidity.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a savory, slightly spicy finish that perks up each bite.
• Celery seeds (optional): Add subtle flavor and an old-fashioned touch—highly recommended if you have them!

How to Make Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Shred the Vegetables

Start by shredding your green and purple cabbage and carrots. You can use a food processor, box grater, or just a sharp knife. The goal is thin, even pieces so every forkful has a perfect crunch and an even mix of flavors. Don’t stress about perfection—homespun slaw is always the most charming!

Step 2: Toss the Veggies Together

Place all the shredded cabbage and carrots into a big mixing bowl. Grab your tongs or clean hands and toss everything together. Mixing now makes sure those colors and textures play nicely in the final Coleslaw Recipe, and nobody misses out on any of the good stuff.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Coleslaw Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and celery seeds if you’re using them. The dressing should look silky and taste lightly tangy. Give it a quick sample and adjust the salt and sugar if needed—your taste buds are the boss!

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Pour that luscious dressing over the veggie mix. Grab your tongs and toss until every ribbon of cabbage is gleaming with dressing. You want everything coated but not drowning—this means all that flavor seeps in, but the slaw still feels fresh and perky.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover your bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour if you can wait. This rest time lets all the flavors meld and makes the Coleslaw Recipe extra refreshing. Serve chilled, right from the fridge—cool and crisp is the way to go!

How to Serve Coleslaw Recipe

Garnishes

While this classic Coleslaw Recipe is gorgeous as is, a sprinkle of extra celery seeds, chopped parsley, or even a dusting of smoked paprika can make it look extra special. A few slices of green onion also add an inviting pop of color and fresh flavor right before serving.

Side Dishes

Coleslaw is the sidekick to so many summery meals. Pair it with smoky grilled meats, crispy fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or tuck it right into a burger or hot dog for next-level crunch. It’s a reliable side for just about any picnic or potluck spread—especially classic barbecue dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve your Coleslaw Recipe in hollowed-out cabbage halves as edible bowls, or scoop it into individual mason jars for cute, portable servings at parties. You can also spoon little mounds onto sliders or baked potatoes for a fun twist that surprises guests in the best way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have some Coleslaw Recipe left over? Just transfer it to an airtight container, and it will stay crisp and tasty in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving again, as the dressing can settle at the bottom.

Freezing

Coleslaw isn’t a friend of the freezer—the veggies tend to go mushy and the dressing separates after thawing. For the best texture, enjoy your slaw fresh or from the fridge within a few days of making it.

Reheating

This Coleslaw Recipe is meant to be served cold. There’s no need to reheat, just scoop, serve, and enjoy! If you’re pairing with hot dishes, keep the slaw chilled for a refreshing contrast.

FAQs

Can I make this Coleslaw Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making your slaw a few hours in advance lets the flavors mingle and develop. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you want a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt or a mixture of yogurt and mayo. You’ll still get a creamy finish, but with less richness and a zingy flavor that pairs beautifully with the coleslaw veggies.

Is there a way to make it vegan?

Yes! Swap out regular mayonnaise for your favorite vegan mayo, and double check your sugar is vegan-friendly. Everything else in the Coleslaw Recipe is already plant-based, so it’s an easy swap.

Can I add other veggies or mix-ins?

This recipe is super flexible. Try mixing in thinly sliced red onion, bell pepper, or even apples for a fruity twist. Toasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts also add crunch and make your version extra special.

Why let the Coleslaw Recipe sit before serving?

Letting it chill before serving gives time for the cabbage to soften slightly and the flavors to blend. The result is a Coleslaw Recipe that’s not only crunchier, but also tastes more unified and delicious.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Coleslaw Recipe. It’s fast, fresh, and lets those simple ingredients shine. If you’re searching for a foolproof side that everyone adores, whip up a bowl and watch it disappear. Give it a try for your next gathering—you’ll be hooked after just one bite!

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