Creamy coleslaw is a classic, tangy and creamy salad that’s perfect as a side dish for BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings. Its creamy texture and refreshing taste come from a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and a rich dressing.

The recipe combines the crunchiness of fresh cabbage and carrots with a smooth, sweet, and slightly tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. This coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s a memorable part of any meal that’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.

Ingredients Needed for This Recipe

1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded (about 8 cups)
2 large carrots, peeled and grated
1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (optional)

Instructions for Making Creamy Coleslaw

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Toss them together until well mixed.
In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. If you’re using chopped onion, add it to the dressing and mix well.
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the coleslaw, ensuring that the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to slightly soften, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the coleslaw.
Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy your creamy coleslaw as a refreshing side to your favorite dishes!

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Choose Fresh Ingredients: The key to a vibrant and crispy coleslaw is starting with fresh cabbage and carrots. Look for a cabbage that feels heavy for its size with crisp, tightly packed leaves and bright, sturdy carrots.

Shred Finely for Better Texture: Finely shredded cabbage and grated carrots not only absorb the dressing better but also create a more pleasant eating experience. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for the cabbage and a box grater or food processor for the carrots.

Balance the Dressing: The dressing is what defines the flavor profile of your coleslaw. Adjust the sweetness and acidity according to your taste. Start with the measurements provided and tweak as needed. Remember, the flavor intensifies as it sits.

Allow Time to Marinate: After mixing your coleslaw, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soak up the dressing, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.

Season to Taste Before Serving: Before serving, taste your coleslaw and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes, a little extra salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar can elevate the flavors significantly.

Add a Crunch Factor: For an added texture, consider tossing in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, right before serving.

Consider Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter version or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Adjust the quantity to ensure the dressing still coats the vegetables well.

Serving Suggestions

As a Side Dish: Creamy coleslaw is the quintessential side dish for barbecue gatherings, complementing everything from grilled meats to veggie burgers. Its creamy, tangy flavor balances out the smokiness and richness of grilled foods.

With Sandwiches and Wraps: Add a spoonful of coleslaw on your sandwiches or wraps for an extra crunch and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with pulled pork sandwiches, chicken wraps, and even as a filling in pita bread.

As a Salad Base: Use the coleslaw as a bed for additional ingredients like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to create a hearty salad. Drizzle with a little extra dressing or a squeeze of lemon for an added zing.

Taco Topping: Elevate your taco game by using creamy coleslaw as a topping. Its crispiness and tanginess make it a perfect complement to fish tacos or any meaty taco filling.

Storage Tips

Airtight Container: Store the coleslaw in an airtight container to keep it fresh. This will also prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods in your refrigerator.

Refrigerate Promptly: Coleslaw should be refrigerated within two hours of preparation to prevent bacterial growth. The ideal storage temperature is below 40°F (4°C).

Consume Within 3-5 Days: For the best quality, consume your coleslaw within 3 to 5 days. Over time, the vegetables will soften and lose their crispness, and the flavors may become less vibrant.

Stir Before Serving: The dressing may settle at the bottom of the container. Give the coleslaw a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors evenly.

Freezing Not Recommended: Freezing coleslaw is not recommended as it can greatly affect the texture of the vegetables, making them soggy upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make coleslaw ahead of time? Yes, coleslaw can be made ahead of time. In fact, it tastes better when allowed to marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour or overnight. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving.

How can I prevent my coleslaw from becoming watery? To prevent your coleslaw from becoming watery, salt the shredded cabbage and let it sit for about an hour before squeezing out the excess water. This process helps to draw out moisture from the cabbage, resulting in a crisper coleslaw.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise for a healthier option? For a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a mixture of Greek yogurt and light sour cream. These substitutes offer a creamy texture with less fat.

Can I add other vegetables to my coleslaw? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as red cabbage, bell peppers, or even sliced radishes for additional color, texture, and flavor. Shredded Brussels sprouts also make a great addition for a more autumnal twist.

Is it necessary to use sugar in the dressing? While sugar adds a balance to the tanginess of the vinegar and the creaminess of the mayonnaise, you can adjust the amount to suit your taste or dietary needs. Alternatives like honey, agave nectar, or even a sugar substitute can be used for a similar effect without using refined sugar.

How can I make my coleslaw more flavorful? To enhance the flavor of your coleslaw, consider adding herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or dill. A dash of celery seed or caraway seeds can also add a nice depth of flavor. For a bit of heat, a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce can do wonders.

Can creamy coleslaw be made vegan? Yes, you can make a vegan version of creamy coleslaw by using vegan mayonnaise and ensuring that the other ingredients you use are vegan-friendly. There are many high-quality vegan mayonnaises available that provide the same creamy texture and taste as traditional mayonnaise.

Why does my coleslaw taste better the next day? Coleslaw often tastes better the next day because the flavors have had time to meld together, and the cabbage has had time to soften slightly, absorbing the dressing more fully. This marinating process enhances the overall taste and texture of the coleslaw.

Creamy Coleslaw

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Creamy coleslaw is a classic, tangy and creamy salad that's perfect as a side dish for BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings

Ingredients

1 medium head of green cabbage finely shredded (about 8 cups)
2 large carrots peeled and grated

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 tablespoons finely chopped onion optional

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Toss them together until well mixed.
In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. If you’re using chopped onion, add it to the dressing and mix well.

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the coleslaw, ensuring that the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to slightly soften, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the coleslaw.
Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy your creamy coleslaw as a refreshing side to your favorite dishes!