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Creamy Classic Coleslaw Recipe Easy Homemade Tangy Freshness

creamy classic coleslaw - featured image

A quick and easy creamy classic coleslaw with tangy freshness, perfect for family gatherings, BBQs, and as a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups (450g) green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup (120g) carrots, peeled and shredded
  • ¼ cup (40g) red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables (10 minutes): Remove outer leaves from cabbage, cut into quarters, and finely shred using a sharp knife or mandoline until you have about 6 cups (450g). Peel and shred carrots (1 cup / 120g). Thinly slice red onion if using (¼ cup / 40g). Transfer all to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the Dressing (5 minutes): In a separate small bowl, whisk together ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons (30ml) apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon celery seed, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sugar or salt as needed.
  3. Combine and Toss (3 minutes): Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss until cabbage and carrots are evenly coated. Avoid overmixing to keep crunch.
  4. Chill and Rest (at least 30 minutes): Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cabbage to soften slightly without losing crispness. For best results, chill a few hours or overnight.
  5. Final Taste and Serve: Before serving, gently stir coleslaw and taste for seasoning. Add more salt or vinegar if needed. Serve chilled.

Notes

For best texture, finely shred cabbage and carrots. Avoid overmixing to prevent sogginess. Chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor. Drain excess liquid if coleslaw becomes watery. Vegan mayo or Greek yogurt can substitute mayonnaise for dietary preferences.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, classic coleslaw, tangy coleslaw, easy coleslaw recipe, homemade coleslaw, BBQ side dish, summer salad