Classic coleslaw recipes
Classic coleslaw is the quintessential American side dish that brings a refreshing crunch to any table. With its vibrant blend of finely shredded green cabbage and sweet, freshly grated carrots, it serves as the perfect accompaniment to barbecues, picnics, and family dinners alike. Rather than the overly sweet or lackluster versions often found in store-bought containers, this recipe emphasizes the balance of flavors, showcasing the simple ingredients that unite to create something truly delicious.
Table of Contents
The beauty of this classic coleslaw recipe lies not just in its charming texture, but also in its ease of preparation. With just a few minutes of assembling fresh ingredients and a simple dressing, you can craft a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re looking for a side for your summer cookouts or a crunchy complement to your Sunday roast, this meal is sure to please. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this classic coleslaw recipe that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip up this coleslaw in just 15 minutes for a fast, hassle-free side.
- Irresistible Flavor: The creamy dressing combined with the crunchy veggies is a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Bright colors from the cabbage and carrots make this dish a beautiful addition to any table.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for cookouts, holidays, or just as a refreshing snack on warm days.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Customize it easily for vegan diets by using plant-based mayonnaise.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 small head green cabbage, finely shredded: The star of the dish, providing the crunch and texture.
- 2 large carrots, grated: Freshly grated carrots lend a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the coleslaw.
- 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise: This is essential for a creamy dressing. Opt for a premium brand to enhance flavor.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness; can be substituted with white wine vinegar for a sharper taste.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: This balances the acidity of the vinegar. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
- 1 teaspoon celery seed: A unique spice that offers a subtle but distinctive flavor to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.
How to Make Classic coleslaw recipes
Shred the cabbage: Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage and finely shred the rest to achieve a tender texture. This will form the base of your coleslaw.
Grate the carrots: Peel the carrots and grate them to add freshness and natural sweetness. Combine the grated carrots with the shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl for easy tossing later.
Mix the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of celery seed, and salt and pepper. Ensure it’s completely smooth; this luscious dressing will coat the veggies perfectly.
Taste the dressing: Sample the dressing and adjust its sweetness or acidity by adding more sugar or an extra teaspoon of vinegar. Getting this right is key to a well-balanced coleslaw.
Combine the veggies and dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage-carrot mixture. Toss everything thoroughly until every bit of the cabbage and carrots are lightly coated with that delicious dressing.
Chill before serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite even more satisfying.
Storing & Reheating
Coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. If left at room temperature, aim to consume it within two hours. For long-term storage, freeze the coleslaw in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. However, keep in mind that freezing may affect its texture — fresh coleslaw is always the best!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid watery coleslaw by squeezing excess moisture from the cabbage before mixing.
- Use a box grater or a food processor for quick grating of the carrots — it saves time and effort!
- Try letting your coleslaw sit overnight for even bolder flavors — it often tastes better the next day.
- If you prefer a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a tangy spin.
- Experiment with add-ins like diced bell peppers or fresh herbs for extra flavor and color.
Classic coleslaw really shines with its vibrant crunch and delightful dressing. It’s the kind of dish that just begs to be customized, whether it’s adding some fresh herbs or removing a bit of sugar if you prefer it less sweet. Be brave and experiment; after all, the joy of cooking often lies in personal touches. Gather friends and family to enjoy this salad that not only nourishes but also encourages connection around the table.
Recipe FAQs
How long can you keep coleslaw in the fridge?
Coleslaw can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar is traditional, white wine vinegar offers a sharper flavor. Experiment with rice vinegar for a milder taste!
Can I make coleslaw vegan?
Definitely! Simply substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free or plant-based mayonnaise to create a vegan-friendly version of this classic coleslaw.
What can I add to my coleslaw for extra flavor?
Add-ins like chopped apples, raisins, or sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch and an explosion of flavor that complements the coleslaw beautifully.
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📖 Recipe Card
Classic coleslaw recipes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic coleslaw recipe offers a flavorful twist on the traditional dish. With finely shredded cabbage, fresh carrots, and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for summer gatherings and adds a refreshing crunch to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 small head cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove tough outer leaves from the cabbage and finely shred the rest.
- Peel and grate the carrots, then mix them with the shredded cabbage in a large bowl.
Notes
For an added crunch, consider adding chopped apples or nuts.
Adjust the sugar to balance the acidity based on your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
