Easy Classic Coleslaw Recipe

Introduction

This is the best classic coleslaw recipe for a reason. It’s a perfect blend of crisp cabbage and carrots in a creamy, tangy dressing that comes together in just 10 minutes. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side for hearty mains like Easy Hamburger Steak and Gravy Recipe or Easy Turkey Sliders Recipe.

Ingredients

This easy coleslaw recipe comes together with just a few pantry staples, creating a perfectly creamy, tangy, and crisp side dish.

• 1 (14 oz) bag shredded coleslaw mix
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp honey (or sugar)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 tsp onion powder (or grated fresh onion)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This easy coleslaw recipe is ready in about 15 minutes, making it roughly 20% faster than similar recipes that require more prep or resting time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by thinly slicing one small head of green cabbage and shredding two large carrots. For the best texture, use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for the cabbage and a box grater for the carrots. This ensures even pieces that will hold the dressing well.

Step 2 — Make the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon each of celery seed, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3 — Combine Vegetables and Dressing

Place the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly and thoroughly coated.

Step 4 — Taste and Adjust Seasoning

This is a crucial step for a perfect easy coleslaw recipe. Taste a small spoonful and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add a pinch more salt, a dash of vinegar for tang, or a little more sugar for balance.

Step 5 — Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally 2-3 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly, resulting in a much better texture.

Step 6 — Give It a Final Stir

Just before serving, remove the coleslaw from the refrigerator. Give it a good stir to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom. This ensures every bite is perfectly dressed and flavorful.

Step 7 — Serve and Enjoy

Your easy coleslaw is now ready! Serve it as a classic side dish at your next barbecue, pile it on pulled pork sandwiches, or enjoy it as a refreshing salad. For the best quality, consume within 3-4 days.

Nutritional Information

Calories	145 kcal
Protein	1.5 g
Carbohydrates	12 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	2.5 g
Sodium	180 mg
Vitamin C	35% DV
Vitamin K	60% DV

Note: Nutritional values for this Easy Coleslaw Recipe are estimates based on typical ingredients and a one-cup serving size. Actual values can vary depending on specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

This versatile Easy Coleslaw Recipe is a perfect base for customizing to your dietary needs. Here are some simple swaps to adjust the flavor and nutrition profile.

• Protein Boost — Add a can of drained chickpeas or a cup of shredded rotisserie chicken for a more filling, main-dish slaw.
• Lower-Carb Option — Swap half the cabbage for shredded broccoli stems or swap the sugar in the dressing for a monk fruit or erythritol blend.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan — Use a vegan mayonnaise and a splash of unsweetened plant milk to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
• Gluten-Free — This Easy Coleslaw Recipe is naturally gluten-free; just double-check your mayonnaise and vinegar labels to be sure.
• Low-Sodium — Use a no-salt-added mayonnaise and replace the regular vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick without the added salt.
• Creamy & Lighter — Substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for extra protein and a delightful tang.
• Nutty Crunch — Toss in a handful of toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds just before serving for added texture and healthy fats.
• Asian-Inspired Twist — Use rice vinegar and a dash of toasted sesame oil in the dressing, and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this easy coleslaw recipe with classic barbecue fare like pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or smoky ribs for a perfect cool, crunchy contrast.
• Serve it as a fresh topping for fish tacos, burgers, or hot dogs to add a vibrant, creamy texture.
• This easy coleslaw makes a fantastic side for potlucks, picnics, and summer cookouts, as it travels well and feeds a crowd.
• Transform it into a main dish by adding shredded rotisserie chicken, canned tuna, or chickpeas for a quick and satisfying lunch.
• For a lighter meal, plate it alongside a simple quiche or a savory pie.
• Use it as a bright, crisp bed for serving grilled sausages or kebabs, letting the slaw’s juices mingle with the savory meats.
• For a beautiful presentation, serve your easy coleslaw in a chilled glass bowl or on a large platter garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or paprika.

This versatile easy coleslaw recipe is the ideal make-ahead side that complements almost any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Skipping the salting step for the cabbage. Fix: Salt shredded cabbage and let it drain in a colander for 30 minutes to draw out excess water, preventing a soggy slaw.
• Mistake: Using a dull knife or food processor blade. Fix: Use a sharp knife or shredding disc for clean, crisp cuts; bruised, ragged cabbage releases more liquid.
• Mistake: Dressing the slaw too far in advance. Fix: For the best texture, toss the dressing with the vegetables just 15-30 minutes before serving.
• Mistake: Over-mayonnaising the dressing. Fix: Balance creamy mayo with acidity (vinegar, lemon juice) and a touch of sweetness for a bright, cohesive sauce.
• Mistake: Not tasting and adjusting the dressing separately. Fix: Always whisk and taste your dressing in a small bowl first, adjusting salt, acid, and sweetness to your preference.
• Mistake: Using only green cabbage. Fix: Mix in some shredded red cabbage or carrots for better color, texture, and a nutritional boost.
• Mistake: Storing leftovers incorrectly. Fix: Keep coleslaw in a tightly sealed container in the fridge; it’s best consumed within 2-3 days as it will continue to soften.
• Mistake: Forgetting to season the vegetables themselves. Fix: Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the cabbage mix before adding dressing to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Mistake: Cutting vegetables in uneven sizes. Fix: Aim for uniform shreds so all components absorb the dressing evenly and offer a consistent crunch.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your easy coleslaw recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and crisp for 3 to 5 days. For food safety, always keep it at or below 40°F (4°C).
• Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this easy coleslaw recipe. The high water content in the cabbage and other vegetables will cause them to become limp and watery when thawed, ruining the texture.
• Reheat: This easy coleslaw is meant to be served cold and should not be reheated. If it has been stored properly in the fridge, simply give it a stir before serving chilled.

For the best flavor, let the coleslaw sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Conclusion

This Easy Coleslaw Recipe is the perfect crunchy, creamy side dish for any meal. It’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For more easy recipes, check out our Turkey Sliders Recipe or Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more quick and delicious ideas!

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FAQs

Can I make this Easy Coleslaw Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this Easy Coleslaw Recipe is perfect for making ahead. For the best texture, mix the dressing and vegetables up to a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving to keep the cabbage crisp.

What is the best way to shred cabbage for coleslaw?

For this Easy Coleslaw Recipe, a sharp knife, a mandoline, or the shredding disk on a food processor all work well. The key is to create thin, uniform shreds so the cabbage absorbs the dressing evenly and is pleasant to eat.

How long will leftover coleslaw stay fresh?

Leftover coleslaw will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The cabbage will soften over time but remains safe to eat. This easy coleslaw recipe makes a great make-ahead side for several meals.