Classic Coleslaw Recipe

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If you’re looking for the perfect side dish that’s crisp, refreshing, and creamy, this Classic Coleslaw Recipe is just what you need! With its crunchy texture and tangy dressing, coleslaw makes the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal, especially during the warmer months. This easy-to-make recipe brings together a flavorful mix of cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing that has just the right balance of tang and sweetness.

Creamy, Tangy Coleslaw for Any Occasion

Coleslaw can sometimes be overlooked, but when made right, it becomes the star of any barbecue, picnic, or family dinner. My goal here is to create a coleslaw that is both delicious and versatile. Whether served with grilled meats, as a topping for sandwiches, or as a standalone side, this recipe never fails to impress. It’s creamy, yet light, and bursting with flavor from the combination of fresh vegetables and tangy dressing.

No complicated steps here – just a few ingredients and you’ll have a delightful dish in minutes!

Ingredients for Classic Coleslaw

Let’s dive into the ingredients that bring this simple yet delicious coleslaw recipe to life. Each component plays a key role in creating that perfect blend of crunch, creaminess, and tang.

• Green Cabbage – The base of any great coleslaw! I like to finely chop 3 cups of fresh green cabbage. It provides a refreshing crunch that holds up well in the creamy dressing.
• Carrots – I add 1 cup of finely diced carrots to the mix for color and natural sweetness. The carrots also offer a slightly softer texture that balances the crisp cabbage.
• Mayonnaise – A classic ingredient in coleslaw, 1 cup of mayonnaise gives the dressing a rich and creamy texture. It’s essential for that smooth, satisfying mouthfeel.
• Greek Yogurt – To lighten things up, I substitute part of the mayo with 1/3 cup of low-fat Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess but with a tangy kick and fewer calories.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar brings that necessary tang to balance the creaminess of the dressing. It also helps brighten the flavors.
• Celery Seed – Just 1 teaspoon of celery seed adds a subtle, earthy flavor and a bit of complexity to the dressing. It’s a traditional spice that elevates coleslaw from good to great.
• Sugar or Honey – I use 1 teaspoon of sugar, but honey can be substituted if you prefer. This small amount of sweetness balances the acidity from the vinegar.
• Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper – These are added to taste to enhance all the flavors in the dressing.

How to Make Classic Coleslaw

Coleslaw is all about combining simple ingredients for maximum flavor. Here’s how you can quickly put this dish together for a tasty side that’s always a hit!

1. Prepare the Vegetables – In a large bowl, toss together the finely chopped green cabbage and diced carrots until they’re well combined. Set this aside while you prepare the dressing.
2. Make the Dressing – In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, celery seed, and sugar (or honey) until smooth. Adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
3. Combine and Serve – Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Stir well to coat all the vegetables evenly with the creamy dressing.
4. Chill or Serve – You can serve the coleslaw immediately for a fresh, crunchy bite, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld even further.

This recipe is perfect for a quick side, and it’s even better when made ahead of time!

How Long to Store Coleslaw

Coleslaw is best served fresh, but with proper storage, you can keep it for a few days while maintaining its delicious flavor and texture. Here’s how long you can store it and some tips for keeping it crisp and flavorful.

• In the Refrigerator – Once you’ve made the coleslaw, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3-4 days. Over time, the cabbage may release moisture, so you might need to stir it before serving to mix the dressing evenly.
• Make Ahead Option – If you’re preparing coleslaw ahead of time, it’s best to store the cabbage and carrot mixture and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to maintain maximum crunch. The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Serving Tips

Coleslaw pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, especially grilled or roasted meats. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Serve as a Side – A classic side dish for barbecues, picnics, or cookouts. It goes particularly well with pulled pork, grilled chicken, or burgers.
• Top Sandwiches or Tacos – Use coleslaw as a crunchy topping for sandwiches or fish tacos for added texture and flavor.
• Light Lunch – Enjoy it as a light and refreshing lunch on its own or with a piece of grilled fish or chicken.

Cooking Tips for the Best Coleslaw

To make sure your coleslaw is always a hit, here are a few handy tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – The crunchier your cabbage and carrots, the better your coleslaw will be. Try to chop them right before making the salad.
• Balance the Dressing – Taste the dressing before adding it to the vegetables. You may want to adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference by adding more vinegar, sugar, or salt.
• Let it Sit (If You Can) – While coleslaw is delicious when freshly made, allowing it to sit for about 30 minutes in the fridge can help the flavors meld together, giving you an even tastier result.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigeration – If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
• Freezing – Freezing coleslaw is not recommended as the mayonnaise-based dressing tends to separate and the vegetables may become mushy after thawing.

By following these tips, you’ll have delicious, fresh coleslaw that can be enjoyed for days!

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