Best Coleslaw Recipe Ever

Discover the perfect coleslaw recipe – a crunchy, tangy delight! Easy steps, fresh ingredients. Elevate your meals with this crowd-pleasing side dish.

Coleslaw

• Publisher: Crisp Recipe
• Cuisine: American
• Category: Salad, Side Dish
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: No cooking
• Servings: 8
• Calories: 150 calories

Best Coleslaw is that timeless sidekick you can always count on—crisp, creamy, and perfectly balanced to brighten up any meal. It’s a staple at backyard barbecues, picnic spreads, and diner tables across America, celebrated for its simple ingredients coming together to create something refreshingly delicious. Whether piled onto a sandwich or served alongside grilled meats, this coleslaw delivers that cool, tangy crunch that feels like a little celebration for your taste buds.

The heart of the best coleslaw is its freshly shredded cabbage—often a mix of green and purple for color and texture—combined with crisp carrots and a creamy dressing that blends mayonnaise, tangy vinegar, a touch of sugar, and just the right seasoning. Some recipes sneak in a bit of mustard or celery seed for a subtle depth that keeps the flavor lively without overpowering the natural crunch of the veggies.

Taking a bite, you get that satisfying snap from the cabbage and carrot, coated in a smooth, slightly sweet dressing that balances acidity and creaminess effortlessly. It’s cool and refreshing, with just enough zing to cut through richer dishes like fried chicken or pulled pork. The textures play off each other—crunchy, creamy, and lightly tangy—which keeps every forkful interesting and crave-worthy.

Coleslaw is usually served chilled, often made a few hours or even a day ahead to let the flavors meld beautifully. It keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it a perfect prep-ahead side. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, and if it thickens up too much, a splash of milk or vinegar can bring it back to life.

While it’s a classic indulgence thanks to the mayo, coleslaw also brings valuable fiber and vitamins from the fresh veggies, making it a lighter, healthier choice among creamy sides. For a lighter spin, you can swap mayo for Greek yogurt or add apples for a touch of natural sweetness and extra crunch.

If you want to master that perfect coleslaw that everyone keeps asking for, check out the recipe below and bring a crisp, creamy burst of freshness to your next meal.

Recipe

Dive into coleslaw perfection! Uncover a symphony of crisp veggies, creamy dressing, and expert tips for the ultimate flavor explosion. Let's slaw it up!

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized green cabbage, shredded
• 2 large carrots, grated
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing until everything is evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
5. Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.

This coleslaw strikes a perfect balance of creaminess, tanginess, and sweetness. It's a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos. Enjoy!

Recipe Video

Coleslaw

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Recipe Tags: Coleslaw, Coleslaw Recipe, Recipe, Cole Slaw, Cole Slaw Recipe

Servings

Serving coleslaw is a breeze, and its versatility makes it a welcome addition to various meals. Here are a few ways to serve coleslaw:

• Classic Side Dish: Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats such as burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue. Its crisp texture and tangy flavor provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Sandwich Topping: Elevate your sandwiches by adding coleslaw as a topping. Whether it's a pulled pork sandwich or a fish taco, the crunch and creaminess of coleslaw bring a delightful twist to each bite.
• Taco Filling: Use coleslaw as a taco filling to add a fresh and crunchy element. It works wonders with fish tacos, shrimp tacos, or any other taco variation you enjoy.
• BBQ Companion: Coleslaw is a barbecue essential. Serve it alongside ribs, chicken, or any grilled dish to balance out the smoky flavors with its cool and zesty profile.
• Picnic Staple: Pack coleslaw for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Its ability to stay crisp even after being refrigerated makes it a practical and tasty choice for on-the-go dining.
• Potluck Hit: Bring coleslaw to potluck dinners or gatherings. Its universal appeal ensures that it will be a crowd-pleaser, offering a refreshing contrast to other dishes on the table.

Tips

1. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh cabbage and carrots for the best texture and flavor. The crispness of the vegetables contributes to the overall appeal of the coleslaw.
2. Customize the Cabbage-Carrot Ratio: Adjust the cabbage-carrot ratio based on your preferences. Some prefer a more cabbage-heavy slaw, while others enjoy a greater prominence of carrots. Find the balance that suits your taste.
3. Homemade Dressing Excellence: While store-bought dressings can be convenient, consider making your own for a personalized touch. Adjust the amounts of mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and honey to achieve the ideal flavor profile.
4. Let It Mingle: Allow the coleslaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious dish.
5. Play with Seasonings: Experiment with additional seasonings to elevate the flavor. A dash of celery seed, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can add depth and complexity.
6. Texture Contrast: For an extra crunch, consider incorporating chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, or seeds like sunflower seeds. This adds another layer of texture to the coleslaw.
7. Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess: Taste the dressing before combining it with the vegetables. If you prefer a sweeter slaw, add a bit more honey. For extra tanginess, a touch more vinegar can do the trick. Personalize it to your liking.
8. Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for a day or two, but for optimal freshness, it's best enjoyed shortly after preparation.

Ingredient Substitutes

If you find yourself short on a few ingredients for coleslaw or want to explore variations, here are some common substitutes:

1. Cabbage Substitutes: Napa cabbage offers a milder flavor and a more delicate texture. Red cabbage adds vibrant color and a slightly peppery taste.
2. Carrot Substitutes: Daikon radish provides a similar crunch with a hint of spiciness. Bell peppers too offer a sweet and colorful alternative.
3. Mayonnaise Substitutes: Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor and creaminess. Sour cream offers a rich texture with a subtle tang.
4. Dijon Mustard Substitutes: Yellow mustard brings a milder flavor. Whole grain mustard adds a bit of texture and a nuanced taste.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar Substitutes: White wine vinegar is a mild, less fruity alternative. Red wine vinegar imparts a deeper flavor.
6. Honey Substitutes: Maple syrup offers a sweet and distinct flavor. Agave nectar: A slightly milder sweetener.

Remarks

As you savor the vibrant crunch and creamy bliss, you've mastered the art of coleslaw perfection. Your culinary journey awaits more delightful discoveries. Slaw on, and enjoy every crisp bite!