Easy Creamy Coleslaw is a must-have side dish that pairs perfectly with barbecue, fried foods, or any casual meal. With its crisp cabbage, crunchy carrots, and creamy dressing, it’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. This simple recipe is quick to make and will become your go-to for any gathering or weeknight dinner.
Why Easy Creamy Coleslaw Is So Special
The beauty of creamy coleslaw lies in its balance of flavors: the crunchiness of the cabbage and carrots, the creaminess of the dressing, and the tanginess from the vinegar. It’s a refreshing dish that complements just about any main course, especially grilled meats, fried chicken, or sandwiches. This recipe is easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Key Ingredients for Easy Creamy Coleslaw
Let’s gather the ingredients needed to make this creamy and crunchy coleslaw.
Ingredients:
- Shredded Green Cabbage: 4 cups (about half of a medium cabbage)
- Shredded Carrots: 1 cup (about 2 medium carrots)
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup (for a creamy base)
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (for tanginess)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (to balance the tanginess)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (for extra flavor)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Celery Seed (optional): 1/4 teaspoon (for added flavor)
- Lemon Juice (optional): 1 tablespoon (for freshness)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Easy Creamy Coleslaw
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into making this delicious coleslaw!
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. You can use a box grater, a food processor, or buy pre-shredded cabbage and carrots to save time.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- If you’re using celery seed or lemon juice, add them to the dressing and stir well.
Step 3: Combine the Vegetables and Dressing
- Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots and toss well to coat the vegetables evenly. Make sure every piece of cabbage and carrot is covered in the creamy dressing.
Step 4: Chill the Coleslaw
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and makes the coleslaw even more flavorful.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- After chilling, give the coleslaw a final toss and taste it. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if necessary.
- Serve chilled as a perfect side dish to your main meal!
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Creamy Coleslaw is an excellent side dish for a variety of meals, including:
- BBQ Ribs or Grilled Chicken for a classic BBQ feast
- Fried Chicken for a southern-style meal
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches or Sliders to add some crunch and creaminess
- Fish Tacos to complement the fresh, vibrant flavors
Easy Creamy Coleslaw: A Simple, Refreshing, and Delicious Side Dish
Description
This easy creamy coleslaw is a delightful side dish made with shredded cabbage and julienned carrots, all tossed together in a rich, creamy dressing. Perfectly balanced with a slight tanginess, this coleslaw is a hit for any BBQ, picnic, or family meal. It’s topped with a sprinkle of black pepper and fresh parsley for added flavor and color, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well. The creamy texture and crunchy vegetables combine to create a refreshing dish that pairs well with various main courses, from grilled meats to fried foods.
Ingredients
-
Shredded Green Cabbage: 4 cups (about half of a medium cabbage)
-
Shredded Carrots: 1 cup (about 2 medium carrots)
-
Mayonnaise: 1 cup (for a creamy base)
-
Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (for tanginess)
-
Sugar: 1 tablespoon (to balance the tanginess)
-
Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (for extra flavor)
-
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
-
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
-
Celery Seed (optional): 1/4 teaspoon (for added flavor)
-
Lemon Juice (optional): 1 tablespoon (for freshness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. You can use a box grater, a food processor, or buy pre-shredded cabbage and carrots to save time.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
-
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
-
If you’re using celery seed or lemon juice, add them to the dressing and stir well.
Step 3: Combine the Vegetables and Dressing
-
Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots and toss well to coat the vegetables evenly. Make sure every piece of cabbage and carrot is covered in the creamy dressing.
Step 4: Chill the Coleslaw
-
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and makes the coleslaw even more flavorful.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
-
After chilling, give the coleslaw a final toss and taste it. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if necessary.
-
Serve chilled as a perfect side dish to your main meal!
FAQs
1. Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, coleslaw tastes even better after it has had time to chill and the flavors meld together. You can make it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use different types of cabbage?
Yes, you can use red cabbage, napa cabbage, or a mix of different cabbage types. Keep in mind that the texture and color may vary, but the flavor will still be delicious.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this coleslaw vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo or use a creamy dressing made from cashews or tofu. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
4. What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
You can use white vinegar or lemon juice as an alternative to apple cider vinegar. Both will give the coleslaw a tangy flavor.
5. How long will leftovers last?
Leftover coleslaw will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cabbage may release some liquid as it sits, but it can be drained and tossed again before serving.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this coleslaw?
Yes! You can add ingredients like diced apples, raisins, or chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro. You could also add bell peppers, onions, or even a little jalapeño for some spice.
7. Can I use store-bought coleslaw mix?
Yes, store-bought coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots) is a great shortcut if you’re short on time. Just be sure to make your dressing fresh.
8. Can I make this coleslaw spicy?
Yes! To add some heat, you can mix in a small amount of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños to the dressing.
9. Is it necessary to refrigerate the coleslaw?
While it’s not absolutely necessary to refrigerate coleslaw, chilling it helps the flavors meld together and the cabbage softens slightly, making the salad more flavorful.
10. Can I use non-dairy mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute regular mayonnaise with non-dairy options like vegan mayo or even a creamy dressing made from cashews or tofu for a dairy-free version.