Crunchy, colorful, and bursting with flavor, this quick coleslaw recipe is your go-to side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or a simple family dinner. In just 10 minutes, you can create a refreshing salad that perfectly complements grilled meats and sandwiches. Let’s dive into this easy, homemade coleslaw that will elevate your meals with its delightful crunch and tangy dressing.
Key Benefits
Coleslaw isn’t just a crunchy addition to your plate; it’s a powerhouse of nutrition and convenience.
Nutritional Advantages of Key Ingredients
- Cabbage: This leafy base is low in calories—just 22 per cup—and rich in fiber, promoting digestive health. It’s also packed with vitamin K, essential for bone health, and vitamin C, which supports your immune system.[1]
- Carrots: Adding a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, carrots are high in beta-carotene, converting to vitamin A in your body to support vision and skin health.[2]
Convenience for Busy Schedules
Preparing coleslaw is a breeze. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this side dish in minutes, making it ideal for hectic days when you still want a nutritious meal component.
Suitability for Various Diets
Coleslaw’s versatility allows it to fit into numerous dietary preferences:
- Low-Calorie Diets: By opting for a light dressing, coleslaw remains a low-calorie choice.
- Low-Carb Diets: With its primary ingredients being non-starchy vegetables, coleslaw is naturally low in carbohydrates.
- Vegan Diets: Substitute traditional mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives or a tangy vinaigrette to enjoy a vegan-friendly version.
Incorporating coleslaw into your meals not only enhances flavor and texture but also contributes to a balanced and health-conscious diet.
Ingredients
Crafting a flavorful coleslaw begins with selecting fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential components and optional additions that will elevate your coleslaw:
Base Ingredients:
- Green Cabbage: The foundation of traditional coleslaw, offering a crisp texture and mild flavor.
- Red Cabbage: Adds a vibrant hue and a slightly peppery taste, enhancing both visual appeal and depth.
- Carrots: Introduce a subtle sweetness and a pop of color, complementing the cabbage’s crunch.
Dressing Components:
- Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy richness that binds the salad. Opt for high-quality brands like Hellmann’s or Duke’s for optimal flavor.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Imparts a tangy zest, balancing the creaminess of the mayonnaise.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the dressing.
- Celery Seeds: Offer a distinctive, slightly bitter flavor that complements the overall taste profile.
Optional Enhancements:
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley can introduce a burst of freshness and color.
- Sugar or Honey: A teaspoon or two can be added for those who prefer a sweeter dressing.
- Scallions: Thinly sliced, they provide a mild onion flavor and additional crunch.
Ingredient Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Green Cabbage | 1 medium head | Finely shredded |
| Red Cabbage | ½ medium head | Finely shredded |
| Carrots | 2 medium | Peeled and grated |
| Mayonnaise | ¾ cup | Adjust to desired creaminess |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Adds tanginess |
| Dijon Mustard | 2 teaspoons | Provides depth |
| Celery Seeds | ½ teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Parsley (optional) | ¼ cup | Fresh, chopped |
| Sugar or Honey | 1-2 teaspoons | Optional, for added sweetness |
| Scallions (optional) | 2 | Thinly sliced |
By thoughtfully selecting and preparing these ingredients, you can create a coleslaw that’s both delicious and tailored to your personal preferences.
Instructions
Creating a delightful coleslaw involves a few simple steps that, when followed, yield a crisp and flavorful side dish. Here’s how you can prepare it:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Shred the Cabbage:
- Remove any wilted outer leaves.
- Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core from each piece.
- Thinly slice each quarter into fine shreds using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- Grate the Carrots:
- Peel the carrots.
- Use a box grater or food processor to grate them into thin strands.
- Combine:
- Place the shredded cabbage and grated carrots into a large mixing bowl.
2. Optional Moisture Reduction:
To maintain a crisp texture and prevent a watery coleslaw, consider pre-treating the cabbage:
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt per 2 cups of shredded cabbage.
- Let it sit for about 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Rinse with cold water and thoroughly pat dry using paper towels.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Dijon Mustard: 2 teaspoons
- Celery Seeds: ½ teaspoon
- Sugar or Honey (optional): 1-2 teaspoons, based on desired sweetness
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, sweetness, or acidity as needed to achieve your preferred flavor balance.
4. Combine and Chill:
- Drizzle the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.
- Toss thoroughly to ensure all components are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
5. Serve:
Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a refreshing side for various meals.
Additional Tips:
- Flavor Variations: For a tangier slaw, increase the vinegar slightly. If you prefer a sweeter profile, add a bit more sugar or honey.
- Texture Maintenance: If you anticipate leftovers, consider adding the dressing in smaller batches to maintain the coleslaw’s crispness over time.
By following these steps, you’ll craft a homemade coleslaw that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Pro Tips and Variations
Elevating your coleslaw involves exploring various dressing alternatives, incorporating unique add-ins, and fine-tuning the flavor balance to suit your palate. Here’s how you can customize your coleslaw:
Dressing Alternatives for Diverse Dietary Preferences:
- Greek Yogurt Dressing:
- Why Choose It? Offers a creamy texture with added protein and probiotics.
- How to Prepare: Combine plain Greek yogurt with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper for a tangy and wholesome dressing.
- Vinaigrette-Based Dressing:
- Why Choose It? Provides a lighter, dairy-free option with a zesty flavor.
- How to Prepare: Whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and celery seeds for a refreshing alternative.
Innovative Add-Ins for a Unique Twist:
- Dried Cranberries:
- Benefit: Introduce a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness, complementing the crispness of the cabbage.
- Usage Tip: Add a handful to your coleslaw mix for a festive touch.
- Nuts (e.g., Walnuts, Almonds, Sunflower Seeds):
- Benefit: Offer a satisfying crunch and a dose of healthy fats.
- Usage Tip: Toast the nuts lightly before incorporating to enhance their flavor and texture.
Adjusting Sweetness and Acidity Levels:
- To Increase Sweetness:
- Option: Incorporate honey or maple syrup into the dressing.
- Usage Tip: Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust as needed to achieve your desired sweetness.
- To Enhance Acidity:
- Option: Add additional apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Usage Tip: Gradually incorporate the acidic component, tasting as you go, to balance the flavors without overpowering the dish.
By experimenting with these variations, you can tailor your coleslaw to align with dietary preferences and flavor profiles, creating a personalized and delightful side dish.
Serving Suggestions
With its crunchy texture and tangy flavor, coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with countless meals. Explore these serving ideas to take your dining experience to the next level:
Perfect Pairings for Coleslaw:
- Barbecue Classics:
- Grilled Ribs: Serving coleslaw alongside tender, barbecued ribs provides a palate-cleansing bite between the savory meat.
- Grilled Meats:
- Burgers and Hot Dogs: Top your favorite grilled burgers or hot dogs with a spoonful of coleslaw for added texture and zest.
- Grilled Chicken: A side of coleslaw pairs well with grilled chicken, offering a light and flavorful accompaniment.
- Sandwiches and Wraps:
- Fish Tacos: Incorporate coleslaw into fish tacos to introduce a crunchy element that complements the tender fish.
- Pulled Chicken Sandwiches: Layer coleslaw in pulled chicken sandwiches for an extra dimension of flavor and texture.
- Seafood Dishes:
- Fried Fish: Serve coleslaw alongside crispy fried fish to balance the richness with its tangy freshness.
- Shrimp Po’Boys: Add coleslaw to shrimp po’boy sandwiches for a delightful crunch that enhances the overall taste.
By integrating coleslaw into these dishes, you not only elevate the flavors but also introduce a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall dining experience.
Conclusion
Coleslaw is more than just a side dish—it’s a versatile, flavorful addition to countless meals. Whether you’re serving it with BBQ, pairing it with sandwiches, or using it as a refreshing topping for tacos, coleslaw adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of tangy goodness. Plus, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in just minutes. Customize it with your favorite add-ins, like dried cranberries or a hint of honey, to suit your taste. Try it today and see how it transforms your meals into something truly special.
Coleslaw
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, and celery seeds.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 90% DV
- Vitamin C: 60% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 2% DV
FAQs
How long can homemade coleslaw be stored?
Homemade coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. To maintain its freshness, avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods. If the coleslaw appears watery or has an off smell, it’s best to discard it.[3]
Can I use a store-bought coleslaw mix instead of shredding my own cabbage?
Absolutely. A store-bought coleslaw mix is a convenient option and works just as well. It typically contains pre-shredded cabbage and carrots, saving you time and effort. You can still customize the dressing and add your favorite extras, like celery seeds or apple cider vinegar.
What are some vegan alternatives for the creamy dressing?
To make a vegan coleslaw dressing, swap out traditional mayonnaise for vegan mayo or a blend of cashew cream and apple cider vinegar. You can also use plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt for a lighter option. For a touch of sweetness, add a drizzle of maple syrup or agave nectar.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to make your coleslaw fit your dietary needs while still keeping it delicious and satisfying.