Discover the Best Coleslaw Recipe that brings together the perfect balance of crunch, tang, and creaminess. This delicious coleslaw is made with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing, making it an ideal side dish for BBQs, picnics, or family gatherings. With its sweet and savory flavors, this coleslaw will become a staple in your recipe collection!
Ingredients:
1 small head of green cabbage, finely shredded
1 large carrot, grated
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp celery seed
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped red onion. This blend of vegetables will form the base of your coleslaw.
Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy dressing is what makes this coleslaw irresistible.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until all the vegetables are evenly coated. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Chill: Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Serve: Before serving, give the coleslaw another toss and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Your coleslaw is now ready to impress!
Serving Tips:
Presentation: Serve coleslaw in a large, colorful bowl to make it visually appealing. You can garnish with additional chopped parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, or even some sliced cherry tomatoes for added color.
Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, chill the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and gives the slaw a refreshing coolness.
Mix it Up: If you’re serving a large crowd, consider doubling the recipe or offering variations, such as adding sliced apples, raisins, or nuts for a different twist.
Perfect Pairings: Coleslaw pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or tacos for a balanced meal. It can also be used as a topping for burgers or pulled pork sandwiches.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-5 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier over time.
Avoid Over-Dressing: If you anticipate having leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate from the cabbage mixture until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the cabbage from becoming soggy and maintains its crispness.
Freezing: While it’s not ideal to freeze coleslaw due to the texture changes in cabbage, you can freeze the dressing separately for future use. Just be sure to mix it well after thawing.
Revive Leftovers: If the coleslaw becomes a bit soggy after sitting, you can add a bit of fresh cabbage or carrots to revive its crunchiness. A splash of vinegar or lemon juice can also help refresh the flavors.
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FAQs:
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture, consider adding the dressing just before serving, as this will help maintain the cabbage’s crunch.
What can I add to coleslaw for extra flavor?
You can customize your coleslaw by adding ingredients like diced apples, shredded broccoli, raisins, or nuts (such as walnuts or almonds) for extra flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar or add spices like cayenne pepper for a kick.
Is coleslaw healthy?
Coleslaw can be a healthy side dish, especially when made with fresh vegetables like cabbage and carrots. To make it healthier, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or reducing the amount of sugar in the dressing. Just be mindful of portion sizes and dressing amounts, as these can add extra calories.
How do I store leftover coleslaw?
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. If you have extra dressing, keep it separate from the coleslaw to prevent sogginess. If the coleslaw becomes a bit mushy, you can add some fresh cabbage or carrots to restore its crunch.
Conclusion:
This Best Coleslaw Recipe is a classic side dish that will elevate your meals and impress your guests. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a versatile choice for any occasion. Try making this coleslaw today, and enjoy the delightful crunch and refreshing taste that will have everyone asking for seconds!
📖 Recipe:
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The Best Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
When it comes to summer gatherings, picnics, or a backyard BBQ, nothing quite complements grilled meats and sandwiches like a bowl of fresh, crunchy coleslaw. Our Best Coleslaw Recipe is not just any slaw; it’s a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, combined with a creamy, tangy dressing that brings everything together. This coleslaw is easy to make and will be a hit at your next event!
Ingredients
1 small head of green cabbage, finely shredded
1 large carrot, grated
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp celery seed
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, toss again and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider including diced apples or raisins.
To maintain freshness, store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container and consume within 3-5 days.
If making ahead of time, store the dressing separately until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing and chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 servings
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Keywords: coleslaw recipe, best coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, easy coleslaw recipe, side dish for BBQ, tangy coleslaw, homemade coleslaw
