As summer rolls in and the grill fires up, I find myself reminiscing about the gatherings filled with laughter, sunshine, and, of course, incredible food. It was at one of these potlucks that I stumbled upon a coleslaw that changed the way I viewed this classic side dish forever. This vibrant coleslaw, bursting with a delightful mix of purple and green cabbage, features a zesty dressing that strikes the ideal balance between sweet and tangy. The crunch of fresh veggies meets the lightness of apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard, making it a refreshing accompaniment that elevates burgers and BBQs to new heights.
Perfect for summer soirées or laid-back picnics, this coleslaw comes together in just 20 minutes, offering a homemade charm that fast food simply can’t match. Let’s dive into the simple steps that will transform your gatherings with this crowd-pleasing Classic Coleslaw!
Why is Classic Coleslaw a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect quick addition to your summer spread. Fresh ingredients like purple and green cabbage mix beautifully with a zesty dressing, creating a dish that bursts with flavor. Versatile in nature, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and can easily stand alone at picnics. Crowd-pleaser appeal ensures your guests will be reaching for seconds! For more ideas on enhancing your summer meal, check out our delicious BBQ side dish alternatives.
Classic Coleslaw Ingredients
Experience the magic of a fresh side dish!
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess; consider using light mayo for a healthier option.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy punch; can substitute with red wine vinegar in a pinch.
- Dijon Mustard – Offers a sharp, flavorful kick; feel free to swap in another mustard variety but expect a slight taste difference.
- Celery Seed – Introduces a subtle bitterness that deepens flavor; can be omitted if you don’t have any on hand.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances out the acidity of the dressing; you can reduce the amount or substitute with honey for a natural touch.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a warm, fragrant note; white pepper is a suitable alternative if desired.
For the Slaw
- Green Cabbage – The star of the show; freshly shredded provides the best crunch and volume.
- Red Cabbage – Adds vibrant color and a slightly peppery flavor for visual appeal.
- Carrots – Contributes natural sweetness and texture; freshly grated works best for optimal results.
How to Make Classic Coleslaw
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Prepare Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, sugar, salt, and pepper until fully blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for that zingy flavor.
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Shred Cabbage: Using a chef’s knife, carefully slice the green and red cabbage into thin strips, about 1/8″ to 1/4″ thick. For best results, avoid using pre-shredded cabbage to retain its crunchy texture.
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Grate Carrots: Take your box grater and grate the carrots until they’re finely shredded. Place a damp towel underneath the grater to keep it stable and prevent slipping while you work.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Pour the dressing over the mixture, tossing gently until every bit of veggie is coated in that zesty goodness.
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Chill: For maximum crunch, serve this delightful coleslaw immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to enhance the flavors while keeping that crisp bite.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Classic Coleslaw
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For the best crunch, consume within the first day; the veggies tend to soften over time.
- Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze classic coleslaw, as the texture of the cabbage will become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy fresh!
- Prepping Ahead: If making ahead, keep the dressing separate from the vegetables until ready to serve. This will preserve the freshness and crunch of your coleslaw.
- Reheating: Typically, classic coleslaw is served cold; however, if you do heat it, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid wilting the veggies.
Expert Tips for Classic Coleslaw
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Fresh Is Best: Always use freshly shredded cabbage to ensure that your coleslaw has the perfect crunchy texture. Avoid pre-shredded options, as they can lose their crispness.
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Balance the Dressing: To prevent an overly heavy mayonnaise flavor, strive for the right balance by incorporating enough apple cider vinegar. It helps keep the dressing light and tangy.
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Prep in Stages: If making ahead, store the dressing separately from the vegetables. This ensures that the ingredients remain fresh and crisp until serving time, enhancing the overall quality of your classic coleslaw.
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Customize to Taste: Feel free to experiment with your ingredients! Consider adding other veggies like sliced bell peppers or swapping some of the sugar for honey for a more natural sweetness in your dressing.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste your dressing before mixing it with the slaw. This allows you to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences for a truly delicious classic coleslaw.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Classic Coleslaw in advance is a fantastic way to save time and enjoy fresh flavors during busy summer days! You can chop the green and red cabbage, as well as grate the carrots, up to 24 hours before serving, storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. It’s best to keep the dressing separate, which can be whisked together and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your coleslaw, simply combine the prepped veggies and pour the dressing over, tossing to coat right before serving. This method ensures your coleslaw remains just as delicious and vibrant—making it a perfect choice for effortless entertaining!
Classic Coleslaw Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this coleslaw your own with delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise for a vegan alternative or avocado for a creamy texture without the dairy.
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Sweet and Crunchy: Toss in sliced apples or raisins for a burst of natural sweetness that complements the tangy dressing.
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Colorful Crunch: Add thinly sliced bell peppers for a crunchy texture and vibrant colors that brighten up your dish.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs such as dill, cilantro, or parsley for an aromatic twist that adds a burst of freshness.
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Nutty Finish: Sprinkle in toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds to bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor enhancing the overall dish.
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Creamy Twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy, lighter dressing that’s still wonderfully creamy.
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Citrus Pop: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to the dressing for a bright, zesty note that complements the coleslaw’s crunch.
What to Serve with Classic Coleslaw?
Creating a complete meal that will delight everyone around the table? Let’s elevate your dining experience together.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The tangy crunch of coleslaw complements smoky pulled pork perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve your coleslaw as a vibrant side that cuts through the juiciness of grilled chicken while balancing its savory notes.
- BBQ Ribs: With their rich, sticky glaze, BBQ ribs paired with crunchy coleslaw create a delightful battle of flavors and textures in every bite.
- Veggie Burgers: The fresh taste of coleslaw brightens up veggie burgers, giving them a satisfying crunch and enhancing their overall appeal.
- Baked Beans: A warm, hearty dish like baked beans pairs beautifully with the cold, crisp refreshing nature of coleslaw, creating a balanced meal.
- Potato Salad: For a classic summer spread, pair coleslaw with creamy potato salad—textural harmony that your guests will rave about!
- Refreshing Lemonade: Quench your thirst with a glass of lemonade—its citrusy brightness complements the tang of the coleslaw and enhances your meal experience.
- Apple Pie: For a sweet ending, serve a slice of apple pie alongside— the sweetness pairs nicely with the savory coleslaw, bringing balance to your meal.
Classic Coleslaw Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my coleslaw?
Absolutely! When choosing cabbage, look for heads that feel heavy for their size with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting. For carrots, pick firm ones with vibrant color and without cracks. Freshness is key to achieving that delightful crunch!
How should I store leftover coleslaw?
To maintain its freshness, store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two—this helps retain that signature crunch and flavor!
Can I freeze coleslaw?
It’s best not to freeze classic coleslaw, as the cabbage’s texture will turn mushy upon thawing. If you want to prepare ahead, store the dressing and vegetables separately in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This ensures your coleslaw remains fresh and crunchy!
What if my coleslaw dressing is too tangy?
No worries! If the dressing turns out too tangy for your preference, simply add a little more mayonnaise or a pinch more sugar to balance the flavors. Start with small adjustments, mixing well and tasting as you go until it reaches that delightful balance of sweet and tangy you adore.
Is this coleslaw suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! This classic coleslaw contains ingredients like mayonnaise, which can be an issue for some. For a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan mayonnaise. Always check labels for allergens such as eggs if you have sensitivities. Plus, feel free to customize ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences!
Can I customize this coleslaw recipe?
Very much so! You can incorporate various veggies for extra color and flavor, like sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even apples for sweetness. If you want a bit more crunch, consider adding nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds. The more, the merrier when it comes to personalizing your classic coleslaw!
Classic Coleslaw with Zesty Dressing for Perfect Summer BBQs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, sugar, salt, and pepper until fully blended.
- Using a chef's knife, slice the green and red cabbage into thin strips, about 1/8" to 1/4" thick.
- Grate the carrots until they’re finely shredded.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Pour the dressing over the mixture, tossing gently until coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to enhance flavors.