If you’re on the lookout for a fresh, satisfying side that pairs beautifully with everything from barbecue to sandwiches, you’ve got to try this Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe. It’s bright with crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and a luscious, creamy dressing that’s perfectly tangy from apple cider vinegar. This coleslaw is a quick fix that brings a delightful crunch and a smooth finish to your plate, making it one of those classic dishes you’ll keep coming back to, no matter the season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is what makes this Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe so fantastic. Each component plays its part, from providing texture and color to balancing flavors with just the right amount of creaminess and zing.
- 4 cups Finely shredded green cabbage: Fresh and crisp for best texture, it forms the hearty base of the slaw.
- 1 cup Grated carrots: These add a natural sweetness and vibrant color that lightens up the dish.
- 1 cup Mayonnaise: This is the creamy glue that holds everything together and adds lusciousness.
- 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy balance that cuts through the richness smoothly.
- 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar: Just enough to enhance the natural sweetness and complement the tartness.
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt: To taste, it amplifies all the other flavors without overwhelming.
- 1 pinch Black pepper: A subtle kick to finish the dressing perfectly.
How to Make Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Fresh Veggies
Start by gathering all your ingredients and making sure the cabbage is fresh and crisp—that crunch is everything for this dish!
Step 2: Shred the Cabbage
Finely shred the cabbage into thin strips, which not only makes it easier to eat but also helps each bite soak up the creamy dressing beautifully.
Step 3: Grate the Carrots
Grate the carrots until you reach about 1 cup. This adds sweetness and a lovely pop of color that makes the coleslaw irresistible.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Whisk until smooth, ensuring a luscious and balanced creamy dressing.
Step 5: Season the Dressing
Add salt and pepper to your dressing mixture, tasting as you go to get the seasoning just right—this step really pulls all the flavors together.
Step 6: Mix the Veggies and Dressing
In a large bowl, toss the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Pour your creamy dressing over, then toss gently to coat every crunchy bite.
Step 7: Chill for Flavor Harmony
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors mingle and intensify, making every forkful more delicious.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Give your coleslaw a quick stir before serving to fluff it up, then enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy texture and fresh crunch on your favorite dishes.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor that complements the creamy dressing wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw shines alongside grilled meats, crispy fried chicken, or as a crunchy layer on burgers and pulled pork sandwiches. It’s a perfect companion to raise any meal to the next level.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the coleslaw in little lettuce cups as a fun appetizer, or layer it in a trifle dish for a picnic-friendly presentation that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Give it a quick toss before serving to refresh the texture.
Freezing
Because of its creamy texture and fresh veggies, this coleslaw is not ideal for freezing. The cabbage and carrots will lose their crispness and the dressing can separate, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe is best served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, let it sit out for a bit if it’s been chilled too long and needs to warm up slightly before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this coleslaw vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the mayonnaise for a vegan or plant-based mayo, and the rest of the ingredients remain the same for delicious vegan-friendly coleslaw.
How long does this coleslaw last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it will keep for about 3 days. After that, the texture and fresh flavors may start to decline.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes! Red cabbage adds a beautiful color and slightly different flavor but works equally well in this recipe. Feel free to mix both cabbages too for extra visual appeal.
Is it possible to make this without sugar?
Definitely. If you prefer to skip sugar, you can leave it out or replace it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to keep some sweetness balanced with the vinegar.
Can I add other vegetables or fruits?
Of course! Thinly sliced bell peppers, green onions, or even grated apple can add interesting texture and flavors, making your Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe unique and exciting.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s fresh, simple, and bursting with flavor, all wrapped up in a creamy, tangy dressing that’s irresistible. Don’t hesitate to try this at your next gathering—you’ll love how it brings a bright, crunchy pop to any meal!
Print
Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Creamy Coleslaw recipe features finely shredded green cabbage and grated carrots tossed in a smooth, tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or a crunchy topping, it’s quick to prepare and deliciously creamy with a hint of sweetness and vinegar tang.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage (fresh and crisp for best texture)
- 1 cup grated carrots (adds sweetness and color)
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise (provides creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (balances the creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (enhances sweetness)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 pinch black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Collect all the ingredients ensuring the cabbage is fresh and crisp for the best texture in your coleslaw.
- Shred Cabbage: Finely shred the green cabbage into thin strips to create a delicate base for the slaw.
- Grate Carrots: Grate fresh carrots until you have approximately one cup; this will add sweetness and color.
- Make Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar; whisk them together until smooth and creamy.
- Season Dressing: Add salt and black pepper to the dressing, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed for balance.
- Combine Salad: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cabbage and grated carrots thoroughly. Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Stir the coleslaw before serving and enjoy it as a fresh side dish or as a crunchy topping on sandwiches and burgers.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the best texture.
- Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavor and texture.
- This coleslaw pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
