Classic coleslaw might just be the perfect salad, balancing the crunch of fresh vegetables with a creamy dressing that ties everything together. This dish is a staple at barbecues, potlucks, and picnics, thanks to its refreshing flavor and satisfying texture. Whether piled high on a plate or accompanying your favorite grilled meats, classic coleslaw is a celebrated favorite year-round.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Classic coleslaw recipes
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Classic coleslaw recipes

I remember the first time I made classic coleslaw; it was a hot summer day, and friends came over for a backyard barbecue. As I mixed together the shredded cabbage and carrots, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. This recipe has been a go-to in my family for generations, and there’s something so comforting about knowing that even the simplest dishes can evoke such warm memories. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you too can whip up a batch of this classic coleslaw. Trust me—once you serve it alongside your meal, your friends and family will be begging for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With only 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious coleslaw ready in no time.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and tangy dressing creates a delightful harmony of taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of the fresh veggies make for a stunning and fun side dish.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for summer barbecues, holiday dinners, or as a crispy topping for tacos or sandwiches.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily customizable for dietary preferences—try swapping the dressing for a lighter yogurt base!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 small head cabbage, finely shredded: Green cabbage works best for that classic taste. You can swap it out with purple cabbage for a pop of color and slightly sweet flavor.
2 large carrots, grated: Freshly grated carrots not only add sweetness but also texture. Buy whole carrots instead of pre-grated for the best flavor.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: A high-quality mayonnaise makes all the difference in flavor and creaminess. You could try homemade or even a vegan alternative.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to the dressing. White wine vinegar works too if you prefer a sharper taste.
2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the flavors; adjust to your preference for sweetness.
1 teaspoon celery seed: This spice brings earthiness and is essential for that classic flavor. If unavailable, you can leave it out for a lighter profile.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, don’t skip this part; it enhances all the other flavors!

How to Make Classic coleslaw recipes

Shred the Cabbage: Remove any tough outer leaves from the small head of cabbage and finely shred the remaining leaves, creating a soft base for your coleslaw. This ensures that the cabbage, the star of the dish, is tender but still retains a bit of crunch.

Grate the Carrots: Peel and grate the 2 large carrots, and then combine them with the cabbage in a large bowl. The bright orange color of the carrots adds a lovely contrast and sweetness to your salad.

Whisk the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon celery seed, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix these ingredients until completely smooth. The creaminess of the mayonnaise is crucial for that rich flavor!

Taste and Adjust: Now’s the time to be the judge of your palate! Take a little taste, and if you desire more sweetness, add a tad more sugar. For extra brightness, consider adding another teaspoon of vinegar. Adjusting these elements is key to personalizing your coleslaw.

Combine Ingredients: Pour that luscious dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing thoroughly until everything is lightly coated. Each bite should carry that creamy tanginess that makes classic coleslaw so beloved across the country.

Chill and Meld Flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This time allows those flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your classic coleslaw. The texture will also improve, making each bite more enjoyable.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your coleslaw fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last about 3-5 days, but the vegetables will become softer over time. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Refresh the texture by stirring in a little more mayo if necessary, but remember that the crunchy nature might diminish after freezing.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid watery coleslaw by ensuring your cabbage and carrots are well-drained, especially if you wash them before cutting.
For extra crunch, incorporate some chopped green apples or radishes for a fresh twist.
Making coleslaw ahead of time? Aim for 2-3 hours of chilling to ensure it’s flavorful and ready to impress your guests.
If you want to lighten up the dressing, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with mayo for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Classic coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s an experience that reminds us of gatherings and brings a sense of joy to our tables. This simple yet delightful recipe opens up a world of possibilities, offering a refreshing contrast to main dishes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different add-ins like diced bell peppers or herbs for a unique twist—after all, cooking is about making it your own.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make classic coleslaw gluten-free?

Absolutely! The ingredients used in classic coleslaw are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any mayonnaise you choose is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may include glutenous additives.

How early can I prepare classic coleslaw?

It’s recommended to prepare your coleslaw at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld. However, you can make it a day ahead—just be aware that the vegetables may soften more than desired.

Can I use a different dressing for coleslaw?

Definitely! While the classic mayo-based dressing is a favorite, you can try a vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of mustard. This provides a lighter alternative without losing the essence of coleslaw.

Any tips for customizing classic coleslaw?

Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients! Pineapple chunks, raisins, or even nuts can add a wonderful twist. Experiment with different vinegars or flavored oils for extra zest too!

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Classic coleslaw recipes

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Author: Anna
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salads
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

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Description

This Classic coleslaw delivers irresistible flavor with simple preparation. Made with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing, it’s a perfect side for any meal and a staple at gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

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
to taste salt and pepper

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Instructions

Remove tough outer leaves from the cabbage and finely shred the inside.
Peel and grate the carrots, then mix them with the shredded cabbage in a large bowl.