The Best Creamy Coleslaw Recipe: Easy Homemade Perfection

Welcome to your new favorite side dish! This classic, creamy coleslaw recipe brings fresh, crunchy appeal to any meal. It’s a perfect blend of crisp vegetables and a delightfully tangy dressing, offering a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. Whether you are hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for a simple, versatile side, this delicious homemade coleslaw always delivers. Get ready to make the best slaw you’ve ever tasted, right in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Coleslaw

This creamy coleslaw isn’t just a side dish; it’s a simple joy to prepare and enjoy. Busy parents and beginners will appreciate its straightforward nature and delicious results.

• Quick and easy preparation: You can have this ready in under 15 minutes.
• Ultimate crunch and freshness: Enjoy vibrant, crisp vegetables in every bite.
• Deliciously tangy, creamy dressing: The perfect balance of sweet and sour elevates the flavors.
• Perfect side for many dishes: It pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to sandwiches.
• Simple ingredient list: You likely have most items in your pantry already.
• Excellent make-ahead option: Prepare it in advance for hassle-free entertaining or weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh items to create your perfect creamy coleslaw. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that signature taste and texture.

• 1 medium cabbage, about 2 pounds, outer leaves removed
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and shredded
• 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh parsley leaves, coarsely chopped
• 1 cup (225g) mayonnaise, see homemade mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or coarse ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar or honey, optional, add for a sweeter coleslaw

Notes & Substitutions

You have flexibility with your ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

• Cabbage: While green cabbage is traditional, feel free to use red, savoy, or Napa cabbage for a different look and subtle flavor.
• Time-saver: Opt for a pre-shredded coleslaw mix from the grocery store. This significantly cuts down on prep time, making it even easier.
• Mayonnaise: We recommend a high-quality store-bought mayo or even trying your hand at homemade mayonnaise for an extra rich flavor.
• Sweetener: Adjust the amount of sugar or honey to your personal preference, or omit it entirely for a less sweet, more tangy slaw.
• Mayo-Free: If you prefer a lighter option, explore a vinegar-based slaw or a cilantro lime slaw for a different profile.
• Celery Seeds: If you don’t have celery seeds, you can substitute with celery salt. Just be sure to reduce the added fine sea salt accordingly to avoid over-salting your dish.

Equipment

You don’t need a lot of fancy tools to whip up this amazing side dish. These basic kitchen essentials will get the job done efficiently.

• Large mixing bowl (for combining vegetables and dressing)
• Small bowl (for whisking the dressing)
• Whisk (to ensure a smooth, well-mixed dressing)
• Sharp chef’s knife (for effortless cabbage shredding)
• Cutting board (a stable surface for prepping veggies)
• Box grater (for quickly shredding carrots)

Instructions

Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create your perfect creamy coleslaw. We break it down to make it easy for any beginner!

1. Prepare the cabbage: Start by quartering the cabbage through its core. Next, carefully cut out the tough core from each quarter. Then, cut each quarter crosswise in half and finely shred the cabbage into thin strips. Place all the shredded cabbage into a very large bowl; you should have approximately 6 to 8 cups of prepared cabbage.
2. Combine veggies: Add the shredded carrot and the coarsely chopped parsley to the shredded cabbage in the large bowl. Gently toss all the vegetables together to ensure they are well mixed. This combination creates a vibrant and fresh base for your coleslaw.
3. Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, fine sea salt, and fresh ground black pepper. Use a whisk to thoroughly stir these ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
4. Taste and Adjust: After mixing, taste the dressing. You might want to adjust its acidity and seasoning to your liking. If the dressing tastes too tart and you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, now is the time to stir in the optional sugar or honey, starting with one teaspoon and adding more if desired.
5. Make the coleslaw: Pour about two-thirds of the prepared dressing over the cabbage, carrot, and parsley mixture in the large bowl. Reserve the remaining dressing.
6. Toss Thoroughly: Use clean hands or a large set of tongs to mix the vegetables and dressing thoroughly. Ensure every shred of cabbage and carrot is coated. This active mixing helps to evenly distribute the dressing.
7. Add More Dressing: Once mixed, assess the consistency of your coleslaw. If it seems a little dry or you prefer an extra creamy texture, gradually add a little more of the reserved dressing until you reach your desired level of creaminess.
8. Rest (Optional): You can serve the coleslaw immediately for maximum crunch. For flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for about an hour before serving. This resting period truly enhances the taste.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Making great coleslaw is easy with a few insider tricks. These tips will help you achieve the best texture and flavor every time.

• Shredding: Slice your cabbage very thinly. This yields a delicate texture that readily absorbs the dressing and prevents your coleslaw from feeling too bulky.
• Dressing Control: Always add the dressing gradually. This prevents sogginess and allows you to customize the creaminess to your preference. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Resting: While you can eat it right away, allowing your coleslaw to rest for at least 30 minutes in the fridge lets the flavors deepen and the cabbage soften just enough.
• Too Watery: If your coleslaw becomes too watery, try salting the shredded cabbage lightly and letting it sit for 15-20 minutes before dressing. This draws out excess moisture; simply drain it well.
• Too Tart/Sweet: Easily adjust the taste. If it’s too tart, add a touch more sweetener (sugar or honey). If it’s too sweet, a splash more apple cider vinegar can balance it out.
• Texture too soft: Ensure you use the freshest cabbage available. Also, avoid over-resting your coleslaw, especially if you prefer a crispier texture; an hour is usually sufficient for melding flavors.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

This versatile creamy coleslaw is much more than just a side. Explore different ways to enjoy it and keep it fresh!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this classic side with BBQ pulled pork, smoky ribs, or tender grilled chicken for a perfect pairing.
• It’s a fantastic accompaniment to juicy hamburgers and turkey burgers at your next cookout.
• Enjoy it alongside seafood favorites like crispy crab cakes or indulgent lobster rolls.
• Use it as a fresh, crunchy topping for various sandwiches, wraps, or even fish tacos to add texture and flavor.

Storage

• Store any leftover homemade coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its freshness.
• For optimal crunch and flavor, enjoy the coleslaw within 2 days of preparation. Beyond this, the cabbage may soften too much.

According to USDA guidelines, safe food storage practices are crucial for perishable foods like coleslaw to prevent the growth of foodborne germs.

• Make Ahead: To prepare in advance, shred your vegetables and whisk the dressing separately. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, then combine just before serving.

Variations

• Additions: Elevate your slaw with chopped red onion, colorful bell peppers, crisp apples, or toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Different Cabbage: Don’t limit yourself to green cabbage. Experiment with a mix of red and green for a visually appealing and unique coleslaw.
• Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
• Herbs: Introduce fresh herbs like dill or chives for an aromatic twist.

Nutrition

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious creamy coleslaw. Please remember these are approximations.

Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities, particularly regarding salt and optional sugar/honey.

FAQ

Got questions about making the perfect coleslaw? We’ve got answers!

• How long does homemade coleslaw last? When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade coleslaw is best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days.
• Can I make coleslaw ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the shredded vegetables and the dressing separately, then store them refrigerated. Combine them just an hour or two before serving for the freshest taste.
• Why is my coleslaw watery? Cabbage naturally releases water, especially when salted or left dressed for too long. To prevent this, consider lightly salting and draining the cabbage before adding the dressing.
• What is the best way to shred cabbage for coleslaw? A sharp chef’s knife works wonderfully for very thin shreds. You can also use a mandoline for uniform slices or a food processor with a shredding disc for speed.
• Can I make this coleslaw without mayonnaise? Yes, you can. Explore a vinegar-based dressing using oil, vinegar, and spices for a lighter, mayo-free version of this classic side.

Conclusion

You now have everything you need to create the best creamy coleslaw right in your own kitchen! This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, promises fantastic flavor, and delivers that satisfying crunch every time. It’s the perfect crowd-pleasing side dish, whether for a backyard barbecue, a simple weeknight meal, or a special gathering. We encourage you to try this simple recipe and make your perfect homemade coleslaw. Share your adaptations and favorite serving ideas in the comments below!

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The Best Creamy Coleslaw Recipe: Easy Homemade Perfection

This easy homemade creamy coleslaw recipe delivers perfect flavor, combining crisp cabbage and carrots with a tangy, savory dressing. It’s an ideal side dish that can be enjoyed immediately or after chilling.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings 8 servings

Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

• Large bowl
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• knife

Ingredients

  

Coleslaw Ingredients

• 1 medium cabbage about 2 pounds, outer leaves removed
• 3 medium carrots peeled and shredded
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves loosely packed, coarsely chopped
• 1 cup mayonnaise (225g), see homemade mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or coarse ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar or honey optional, add for a sweeter coleslaw

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Quarter and core the cabbage, then shred it finely. Place the shredded cabbage in a very large bowl.
• Add the shredded carrot and chopped parsley to the cabbage and toss to mix.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning; add optional sugar for a sweeter dressing.
• Pour two-thirds of the dressing over the cabbage mixture and mix well. Add more dressing if needed, then serve immediately or chill for an hour to enhance flavors.

Notes

For best results, allow the coleslaw to chill in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving to let the flavors meld and the cabbage soften. Consider using homemade mayonnaise for an even richer flavor profile, as suggested in the ingredients.

Amelia Johnson

Amelia Johnson is a 28-year-old chef from New Orleans, Louisiana, known for her innovative take on traditional American cuisine. Growing up in a family that celebrated food, she developed a passion for cooking early on, experimenting with recipes from her grandmother. After graduating from culinary school, Amelia honed her skills in top restaurants, where her talent quickly gained acclaim for its creative dishes. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and bold flavors, she inspires others through cooking workshops, sharing her love for food and the rich diversity of American cuisine.