In the world of salads, coleslaw often gets a bad rap. You know the one—sitting there in the corner of the picnic table, looking limp and lifeless, like it just lost a battle with a spoon. But let me tell you, an easy coleslaw recipe can turn that frown upside down! Picture crisp cabbage dancing with vibrant carrots, all tossed in a creamy dressing that’s tangy enough to make your taste buds do the cha-cha. ideal for summer BBQs It’s the kind of salad that not only complements barbecued ribs but also steals the show at any summer gathering.
Growing up, coleslaw was a staple at family picnics—my aunt’s secret recipe always made its way to our potlucks. I remember sneaking spoonfuls when no one was looking, convinced that if I could just get my hands on that tangy goodness every day, life would be perfect. Fast forward to now, and I’ve mastered this easy coleslaw recipe that will have you reminiscing about those sunny afternoons while adding your own twist to this classic dish. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s embark on this crunchy adventure together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy coleslaw recipe is incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- The flavor profile balances sweetness and tanginess for a refreshing bite that everyone will enjoy.
- Its colorful presentation adds visual appeal to any meal, making your plate pop with freshness.
- Versatile enough to pair with grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches, this coleslaw is a must-have!
Ingredients for easy coleslaw recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Green Cabbage: Choose a firm head of cabbage for crunch; shredded finely makes all the difference in texture.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; grate them for optimal distribution throughout the salad.
- Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayo for creaminess; it binds everything together beautifully.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds zing; opt for unfiltered varieties if possible for extra flavor depth.
- Sugar: A touch of sugar balances acidity; adjust based on your preference for sweetness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors—season to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make easy coleslaw recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies
Start by removing any outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut it into quarters and slice out the core. Then shred those beautiful greens until they resemble confetti—light and airy!
Step 2: Grate the Carrots
Grab your trusty grater (or food processor if you’re feeling fancy) and get those carrots grated! Aim for fine shreds so they blend seamlessly into your slaw.
Step 3: Mix Up the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until creamy perfection forms—taste test (a chef’s prerogative) and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, toss together shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Pour over your dressing and mix well until every shred is coated in that creamy goodness.
Step 5: Chill Out
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw into an airtight container. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour—this allows flavors to mingle like old friends catching up.
Step 6: Serve Fresh
When ready to serve, give it another gentle toss before transferring it onto plates or into serving bowls—you want it looking as fresh as possible!
This easy coleslaw recipe is perfect alongside grilled chicken or tucked into pulled pork sandwiches for added crunch! Enjoy every bite of this nostalgic favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen too!
You Must Know
- This easy coleslaw recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a crunchy, tangy delight that brightens up any meal.
- Whether you serve it at barbecues or family dinners, its fresh flavors and textures will steal the show.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by shredding your cabbage and carrots while mixing the dressing separately. Combine everything just before serving to keep that satisfying crunch intact.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz up your easy coleslaw recipe with additions like diced apples for sweetness, raisins for chewiness, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store your coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to three days. Avoid reheating as it’s meant to be served cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- 1.
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline for evenly shredded veggies, which makes for a prettier presentation.
2.
- Let the coleslaw sit for about 30 minutes after mixing to enhance flavors and soften the vegetables slightly.
3.
- Experiment with different vinegars; apple cider vinegar adds a nice touch of sweetness!
There was this one summer barbecue where my aunt decided to bring her famous coleslaw instead of dessert. I mean, who does that? But when I tasted it, I understood! It became the unexpected star of the show.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for an easy coleslaw recipe?
To make an easy coleslaw recipe, gather a head of green cabbage, a few carrots, and some fresh parsley. For the dressing, you will need mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Feel free to customize your coleslaw by adding ingredients like red cabbage for color or diced apples for sweetness. unique seafood option This combination creates a delicious and satisfying side dish that pairs well with various meals. For more inspiration, check out this Homemade Big Mac Sauce recipe.
How long can I store homemade coleslaw?
Homemade coleslaw can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. To maintain its freshness, keep it in an airtight container. However, the texture may change over time as the cabbage releases moisture into the dressing. If you plan to serve it later, consider adding the dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess and ensure maximum crunchiness.
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make coleslaw ahead of time. In fact, preparing your easy coleslaw recipe a few hours or even a day in advance enhances the flavors as they meld together. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables. Mix everything together shortly before serving for the best results.
What dishes pair well with coleslaw?
Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that complements many meals. It pairs excellently with barbecue dishes such as pulled pork sandwiches or grilled chicken. Additionally, it enhances fried foods like fish or chicken tenders and adds crunch to tacos and sandwiches. perfect summer side dish The refreshing nature of this easy coleslaw recipe makes it a perfect accompaniment for summer picnics and family gatherings.
Conclusion for easy coleslaw recipe:
In summary, this easy coleslaw recipe is quick to prepare and requires simple ingredients that enhance any meal. By combining fresh cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing, you create a delightful side dish that is both crunchy and flavorful. easy meal solutions Storing leftover coleslaw properly ensures you can enjoy it for several days. Whether served at barbecues or family dinners, this versatile recipe will surely impress your guests while being effortless to make. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Easy Coleslaw
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Revamp your salad game with this easy coleslaw recipe! Crisp green cabbage and vibrant carrots are tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a crunchy side at family dinners, this coleslaw is sure to impress and delight.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded (about 1/2 medium head)
- 1 cup carrots, grated (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Veggies: Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage, cut into quarters, and shred finely until it resembles confetti.
- Grate the Carrots: Using a grater or food processor, grate the carrots until finely shredded.
- Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine: In a large bowl, toss shredded cabbage and grated carrots together. Pour dressing over the mixture and stir until fully coated.
- Chill: Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Give it a gentle toss before serving chilled alongside your favorite dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
