Description
Classic Coleslaw is a simple, fresh, and creamy side salad featuring shredded green cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy, balanced dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Perfectly crisp and flavorful, it pairs well with barbecues, sandwiches, and grilled dishes, and can be customized easily for different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup finely shredded carrots
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- Toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds (for crunch)
- Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill (chopped)
- Cayenne pepper or hot sauce (for spicy variation)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by finely shredding the green cabbage and carrots using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to achieve thin, even strips that provide the perfect crunch and texture.
- Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every strand is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the coleslaw rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld and softens the cabbage slightly while keeping its crispness.
- Final Taste Adjustment: Before serving, taste the coleslaw and adjust seasoning as necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar.
Notes
- Dry the cabbage thoroughly after washing to prevent watery coleslaw.
- Shred the vegetables evenly for consistent texture and flavor absorption.
- Chill the salad well to allow the dressing to soak in and improve taste.
- Adjust sweetness carefully by tasting while adding honey or sugar.
- Classic Coleslaw tastes better if made a few hours ahead to let flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: Classic Coleslaw, Side Salad, Barbecue Side Dish, Creamy Coleslaw, Easy Coleslaw Recipe, Fresh Salad
