Coleslaw is a go-to recipe when you need something quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing. It’s fresh, crunchy, and comes together in minutes using shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy mayo dressing or tangy vinaigrette. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, or even tacos.
This recipe works great for busy weeknights or summer cookouts. The ingredients are cheap and easy to find. Plus, it can be made ahead, which saves time. The flavors get better after sitting for a few hours, making it ideal for meal prep or parties.
Making coleslaw has been a staple in many quick dinners and potlucks. It always adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to spicy or fried dishes. Using fresh vegetables and balancing the right amount of sweetness and acidity is key to making it stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Coleslaw Recipe
This coleslaw recipe is quick, easy, and ready in minutes. You don’t need any fancy ingredients, just basic pantry staples. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute sides.
The taste is fresh and tangy with a creamy crunch. Each bite is full of flavor from the cabbage, carrots, and dressing. It balances well with grilled meats and sandwiches.
It’s budget-friendly and feeds a crowd. You can make a large bowl for family dinners, parties, or picnics—no need to spend a lot to enjoy a delicious homemade dish.
This coleslaw recipe is also easy to customize. Add a touch of vinegar for zing or a bit of sugar for sweetness. Make it your own with simple tweaks and enjoy every time.
Pre-preparation of Coleslaw Recipe
Before mixing anything, let’s talk pre-prep.
- Chill your ingredients: Cold cabbage and carrots stay crisp longer and keep the slaw fresh. If you’re prepping ahead, keep them in the fridge until ready to use.
- Salt and rest (optional): For an extra-crisp slaw, toss the shredded cabbage with a pinch of salt and let it sit in a colander for 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess water, preventing your coleslaw from getting soggy.
- Make the dressing separately: Always whisk the dressing before combining it with the vegetables. It ensures even distribution and better flavor.
How to Make Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect homemade coleslaw:
For the slaw:
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded (for color and extra crunch)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (optional for zing)
For the dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
- ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional but adds that classic coleslaw flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Shred the veggies: Use a sharp knife or food processor to shred the cabbage and carrots finely. Place them in a large bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, mustard, honey, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat every bit.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle.
- Serve: Give it a quick toss before serving. Enjoy chilled with your favorite dishes!
Nutrition and Health Benefits of Coleslaw Recipe
Coleslaw is more than just a side dish — it’s a nutritious, health-friendly option that can add crunch and color to your meals. Made mainly from cabbage and carrots, it offers several nutritional and health benefits when prepared with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Nutrition Benefits:
- Rich in Fiber: Cabbage is the star of coleslaw and is high in dietary fiber. This supports healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
- High in Vitamins C and K: Coleslaw made with raw cabbage provides a good dose of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and skin health. Vitamin K supports bone strength and helps with blood clotting.
- Low-Calorie, Nutrient-Dense Option: A basic coleslaw recipe without too much mayonnaise is low in calories but still packed with nutrients, making it great for weight control.
- Good Source of Antioxidants: Cabbage and carrots are rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and flavonoids, which help protect your cells from damage.
- Contains Healthy Fats (when made right): If you use olive oil or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat mayo, coleslaw becomes a source of heart-healthy fats and protein.
- Supports Hydration: Cabbage and carrots both contain high water content, helping your body stay hydrated naturally.
- Low in Carbs (if sugar is minimized): Homemade coleslaw without added sugar is a great low-carb side for those managing blood sugar levels.
Health Benefits:
- Boosts Immunity: The vitamin C and antioxidants in coleslaw help support your immune system and fight off illness.
- Aids in Weight Loss: High fiber and low calories make coleslaw filling without adding extra pounds. It’s perfect for healthy eating goals.
- Promotes Gut Health: Cabbage is a natural prebiotic. It feeds good bacteria in your gut, helping with digestion and better nutrient absorption.
- Improves Heart Health: Ingredients like cabbage and olive oil (if used) have anti-inflammatory effects and help manage cholesterol levels.
- May Reduce Cancer Risk: Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage have compounds such as sulforaphane, which studies show may reduce cancer risk.
- Enhances Eye Health: Carrots in the recipe are rich in beta-carotene, which helps maintain good vision and protects eye tissues.
- Supports Bone Strength: Thanks to vitamin K and calcium (if Greek yogurt is used), coleslaw helps maintain healthy bones and joints.
Coleslaw Recipe Variation
Want a twist on the classic coleslaw recipe? Try adding purple cabbage for color and extra crunch. You can also mix in chopped apples, raisins, or pineapple chunks for a hint of sweetness. Swap the mayo with Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette for a lighter, tangier version. Spicy lovers can mix in a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños.
How to Serve Coleslaw Recipe
Coleslaw makes a great side for grilled meats like ribs, chicken, or burgers. It’s incredible, crunch balances hot and smoky flavors. You can also serve it on top of pulled pork sandwiches, fish tacos, or BBQ sliders for a fresh, creamy bite that cuts through rich sauces.
It’s also perfect for potlucks or picnics. Serve it chilled in a large bowl, and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. The simple ingredients and easy prep make it a crowd favorite at any gathering, large or small.
Storage Options
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. Stir it before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Avoid freezing coleslaw, as the cabbage and dressing don’t thaw well. The texture becomes watery and unpleasant. Always refrigerate promptly after serving.
FAQs About Coleslaw Recipe
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance. Just keep it chilled to stay fresh and crisp.
How long does coleslaw last in the fridge?
Homemade coleslaw lasts about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Is coleslaw healthy?
Coleslaw can be a healthy option if made with a light dressing. Using yogurt or vinegar instead of mayo lowers fat and calories.
Can I use red cabbage in coleslaw?
Yes, red cabbage adds color and crunch. Mix it with green cabbage for a bright and tasty dish.
