Coleslaw Recipe

Coleslaw Recipe: Classic Creamy Side

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Introduction

Coleslaw is a timeless side dish, cherished for its crisp, refreshing crunch and creamy, tangy dressing that complements a wide range of meals. This Coleslaw recipe delivers a vibrant, homestyle dish perfect for barbecues, picnics, holiday gatherings, or everyday dinners. Its simplicity and bright flavors make it a versatile addition to any table, appealing to cooks of all skill levels. With a balanced dressing and customizable ingredients, this coleslaw brings a touch of classic comfort and freshness to every occasion.

Ingredients

  • ½ medium green cabbage, finely shredded (about 4 cups)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • ½ small red onion, finely chopped
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Optional: ¼ tsp celery seed for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion. Toss to mix evenly.
  2. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and optional celery seed until smooth.
  3. Combine: Pour dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat, ensuring all vegetables are evenly dressed.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours, to let flavors meld and cabbage soften slightly.
  5. Adjust and Garnish: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed. Garnish with optional parsley.
  6. Serve: Serve chilled as a side dish or topping for sandwiches and burgers.

Tips for a Better Coleslaw

  • Shred cabbage finely for better texture
  • Use a food processor for quick prep
  • Drain excess liquid from vegetables if watery
  • Chill for at least 1 hour to enhance flavors
  • Adjust sugar and vinegar for desired tanginess
  • Toss dressing gradually to avoid overdressing
  • Serve cold for maximum crispness
  • Taste before serving to fine-tune seasoning
Variations and Customization
  • Vinegar-Based Coleslaw: Skip sour cream and increase vinegar to ¼ cup
  • Spicy Coleslaw: Add ½ tsp cayenne or 1 tbsp hot sauce
  • Sweet Coleslaw: Increase sugar to 3 tbsp
  • Vegan Coleslaw: Use plant-based mayo and yogurt
  • Apple Coleslaw: Add 1 shredded apple for sweetness
  • Crunchy Coleslaw: Mix in ¼ cup sunflower seeds
  • Low-Fat Coleslaw: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
  • Herb Coleslaw: Add 1 tbsp fresh dill to dressing
Storage and Serving Tips
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
  • Do not freeze, as the texture becomes soggy
  • Serve with grilled meats, fried chicken, or sandwiches
  • Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing
  • Use leftovers as a taco topping or salad base
  • Keep chilled for picnics to maintain freshness
  • Garnish with parsley or green onions
  • Pair with iced tea or lemonade
Nutritional Information

The following nutritional information is approximate, based on 8 servings (about ¾ cup per serving):

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Vitamin C: 35% of Daily Value
  • Vitamin A: 25% of Daily Value
  • Calcium: 4% of Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and optional ingredients like celery seed or parsley. Use a nutritional calculator for precise measurements. Coleslaw is moderate in calories but high in fat due to mayonnaise; vegan or low-fat variations reduce richness. Cabbage and carrots provide fiber and vitamins, making them a nutritious side.

Conclusion

This Coleslaw recipe delivers a crisp, creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual barbecues to festive holiday spreads. Its refreshing crunch and tangy dressing create a versatile complement to countless meals, delighting all palates. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a classic that brings freshness to every table. This recipe ensures a crowd-pleasing coleslaw that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Coleslaw Recipe

Coleslaw Recipe: Classic Creamy Side

A creamy, classic coleslaw with crisp cabbage, ideal for barbecues and dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • ½ medium green cabbage shredded
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • ½ small red onion chopped
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 2 tbsp fresh parsley
  • Optional: ¼ tsp celery seed

Instructions
 

  • Combine cabbage, carrots, and onion in a bowl
  • Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, pepper, and celery seed
  • Toss the dressing with the vegetables
  • Chill 1-3 hours
  • Adjust seasoning; garnish with parsley
  • Serve chilled

Notes

  • Shred cabbage finely
  • Chill for flavor
  • Store in fridge for 3 days; don’t freeze
  • Serve with grilled meats

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