The Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw a creamy, tangy, and refreshing classic coleslaw made with simple ingredients, perfect for any summer BBQ or family gathering. This coleslaw has the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess, with a slightly sweet and zesty dressing that makes it irresistible.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how easy this coleslaw is to prepare with just a handful of ingredients. The combination of green and red cabbage not only adds a beautiful color contrast but also provides a satisfying crunch. The dressing is rich and creamy, with a touch of sweetness from honey and a slight tang from apple cider vinegar. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos. Plus, letting it chill before serving enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 large carrot, grated
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrot.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well until the vegetables are evenly coated.
If desired, add celery seed and fresh parsley for extra flavor and color.
Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 210 kcal per serving
Variations
Sweeter Coleslaw: Increase the honey for a slightly sweeter taste.
Tangy Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra tanginess.
Creamier Version: Mix in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a richer texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or chopped almonds for added texture.
Storage and Reheating
I like to store this coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving, I give it a quick toss to redistribute the dressing. Since this is a mayonnaise-based coleslaw, I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture will become watery once thawed.
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FAQs
How can I keep coleslaw from getting watery?
To prevent watery coleslaw, I make sure to pat the shredded cabbage dry before mixing. Adding the dressing just before serving also helps maintain its crisp texture.
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! I actually prefer making it a few hours in advance because it allows the flavors to blend together. Just store it covered in the fridge until ready to serve.
What can I serve with coleslaw?
This coleslaw pairs well with BBQ dishes, pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or even as a side for burgers and hot dogs.
Can I use bagged coleslaw mix instead of fresh cabbage?
Absolutely! If I’m short on time, I use a pre-shredded coleslaw mix from the store for convenience. It works just as well.
Is there a dairy-free version of this coleslaw?
Yes! Simply swap out the mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative like vegan mayo to keep it dairy-free.
Conclusion
This old-fashioned creamy coleslaw is a simple yet flavorful side dish that works for any occasion. The combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet and tangy dressing, and optional add-ins makes it a versatile and delicious addition to meals. Whether I serve it at a summer cookout or as a refreshing side, it’s always a hit.
📖 Recipe:
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The Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This old-fashioned creamy coleslaw is the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy, featuring shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrot, and a rich, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Ideal for BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings, this classic coleslaw recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
1 large carrot, grated
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrot.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well until evenly coated.
- Add celery seed and fresh parsley if desired for extra flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For a sweeter coleslaw, increase the honey.
Add lemon juice for extra tang.
Mix in sour cream or Greek yogurt for a richer texture.
Toss in sunflower seeds or chopped almonds for added crunch.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 210 kcal
