Classic Coleslaw

Classic Coleslaw is a timeless, creamy, and tangy salad made from finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and a luscious dressing that strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It’s a staple side dish at picnics, BBQs, family gatherings, and potlucks, pairing wonderfully with fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, or grilled meats.

This dish has stood the test of time for a reason. Its refreshing crunch, bright flavors, and creamy dressing make it a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and balance to heavier, richer foods. Whether served alongside barbecue or tucked into a sandwich, coleslaw adds the ideal crisp and tangy bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Classic Coleslaw recipe because it’s simple, quick, and endlessly reliable. The creamy dressing — made from mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a hint of mustard — coats the cabbage and carrots beautifully, allowing their natural freshness to shine. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.

What makes me love it even more is its versatility. You can prepare it ahead of time, and it actually gets better as it sits, letting the flavors meld. It’s also inexpensive, uses basic ingredients, and can be customized with your preferred level of tang or creaminess. Every bite tastes fresh, crisp, and satisfying.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Classic Coleslaw is a must-try because it’s:

• Refreshing and balanced – A perfect complement to savory or smoky dishes.
• Quick and easy – Ready in just minutes.
• Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling.
• Affordable and versatile – Uses simple pantry ingredients.
• Universally loved – A hit at any gathering, from picnics to dinner parties.

Once you make coleslaw from scratch, you’ll never go back to the store-bought version again.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per serving
• Course: Side Dish, Salad
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Coleslaw:

• 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded (optional, for color)
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• ½ cup green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

For the Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional, for flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Finely shred the cabbage and carrots using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor.
2. Mix the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Combine the salad: In a large bowl, add the shredded vegetables. Pour the dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill before serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled: Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Shred the Vegetables
Finely shred the cabbage and carrots. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess as desired.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill the Coleslaw
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps the cabbage soften slightly and lets the flavors develop.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Give the coleslaw a final toss before serving.

How to Serve

Classic Coleslaw can be served as:

• A side dish with fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or grilled fish.
• A topping for pulled pork, fish tacos, or burgers.
• A fresh addition to picnic spreads and lunch boxes.

It’s best served cold or chilled, providing a refreshing balance to hot and rich dishes.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh cabbage: Freshly shredded cabbage stays crisper than pre-packaged coleslaw mix.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Add more vinegar for tang or more sugar for sweetness.
• Chill before serving: This improves flavor and texture.
• Don’t overdress: Add dressing gradually to avoid sogginess.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle with sunflower seeds, nuts, or crispy bacon bits for texture.

Variations

1. Vinegar-Based Coleslaw:
   Skip the mayonnaise and use olive oil, vinegar, and sugar for a lighter, tangy slaw.
2. Creamy Buttermilk Coleslaw:
   Replace part of the mayo with buttermilk for a creamier, slightly tangy version.
3. Asian Coleslaw:
   Add sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix in shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions, and top with sesame seeds.
4. Spicy Coleslaw:
   Add diced jalapeños, sriracha, or chili flakes for a spicy twist.
5. Apple Coleslaw:
   Add thinly sliced apples and a touch of honey to give a sweet crunch.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Stir before serving as the dressing may separate slightly.

Freezing:

• Not recommended. The mayonnaise dressing and fresh vegetables will lose texture and become watery after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• Tongs or salad spoon for tossing

Conclusion

Classic Coleslaw is a timeless, creamy, and crunchy side dish that enhances any meal with its refreshing flavor and satisfying texture. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, easy to make, and endlessly customizable.

Whether served at a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or alongside your favorite sandwich, this coleslaw brings a burst of freshness and comfort. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll appreciate just how delicious and versatile such a simple dish can be. It’s proof that sometimes, the classics never go out of style.