Making coleslaw is one of the easiest things you can whip up in your kitchen, and trust me, once you try this easy coleslaw recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought versions! It’s the ultimate side dish that complements just about any meal, from barbecues to weeknight dinners. I remember the first time I made coleslaw for a family gathering; I thought it would be complicated, but it turned out to be a breeze. The crunch of the cabbage, the sweetness of the carrots, and that creamy dressing just bring everything together so beautifully.
This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly adaptable to your taste. You can easily tweak the flavors to match your preferences, whether you want it a bit sweeter, tangier, or even spicier! Plus, it’s a great way to use up veggies in your fridge. I love how versatile coleslaw can be—serve it alongside pulled pork, on top of tacos, or even as a refreshing topping for sandwiches. So, let’s dive into this easy coleslaw recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Easy Coleslaw Recipe
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
These ingredients come together to create a coleslaw that’s crunchy, creamy, and oh-so-delicious! I always reach for fresh, crisp cabbage—it’s the heart of this dish! The carrots add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color. When it comes to the dressing, don’t skimp on the mayonnaise; it binds everything beautifully and gives that creamy texture we all love. I like to use apple cider vinegar for a nice tang, and sugar balances it all out perfectly. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste—after all, this is your coleslaw masterpiece!
How to Prepare Easy Coleslaw Recipe
Combine Cabbage and Carrots
First things first, grab a large bowl—this is where all the magic happens! Start by adding your 4 cups of shredded green cabbage and 1 cup of shredded carrots. I always make sure to distribute them evenly, so each bite has a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. Just gently toss them together with your hands or a big spoon. Trust me, it’s important to mix them well; you want the colors and textures to shine through in every scoop!
Make the Dressing
Now, let’s whip up the dressing! In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. This is where the flavors really come together! I like to use a whisk for this part; it helps to blend everything smoothly. Make sure you whisk it really well until the mixture is nice and creamy without any lumps. You want that creamy goodness to envelop every shred of cabbage and carrot!
Combine the Salad and Dressing
Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Here’s where the fun begins! Toss everything together until all the veggies are beautifully coated with that creamy dressing. I like to use two large spoons or even my hands (clean, of course!) for this step—just be gentle so you don’t mush the veggies. It’s all about getting that dressing into every nook and cranny of the cabbage and carrots. You’ll see the colors come alive and it’ll look so inviting!
Chill and Serve
Now, here’s the secret to making your coleslaw even tastier: let it chill! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and it gives the cabbage a chance to soften just a bit while still keeping that satisfying crunch. When you’re ready to serve, give it another quick toss, and you’re all set! I love serving it alongside grilled meats, or even on top of tacos for that extra crunch. Enjoy your coleslaw adventure—it’s going to be delicious!
Tips for Success
To make your easy coleslaw recipe truly shine, here are some expert tips that I swear by! First off, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, simply add a bit more sugar. On the flip side, if you like a more tangy kick, a splash more of apple cider vinegar can work wonders. It’s all about finding that perfect balance that tickles your taste buds!
Another great tip is to prepare your coleslaw in advance. It’s actually even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This allows those flavors to mingle and deepen, which is just heavenly! Just remember to give it a good toss before serving to refresh everything.
Oh, and don’t forget about the veggies! For a crunchier texture, you can use a food processor to shred your cabbage and carrots, but I love the rustic feel of hand-shredded veggies. It adds character! Lastly, if you have leftover coleslaw, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should keep well for a couple of days. Just be mindful that the cabbage will soften more over time, but it’s still delicious! Happy coleslaw-making!
Variations of Easy Coleslaw Recipe
Now, let’s talk about some fun ways to mix up this easy coleslaw recipe! One of my favorite twists is adding diced apples for a hint of sweetness and crunch. Just chop up a crisp apple—like a Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—and toss it in with the cabbage and carrots. It brings a refreshing zing that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing!
If you’re looking to add some texture, consider folding in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans. They not only add a delightful crunch but also a nutty flavor that complements the coleslaw beautifully. Just be sure to chop them finely so they distribute evenly throughout the salad.
For a lighter version, you can swap out the mayonnaise for plain yogurt. Greek yogurt works particularly well because it’s thick and creamy, plus it adds a little tang. I promise you won’t miss the mayo! You could even throw in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an herby twist. The beauty of coleslaw is its versatility—so get creative and let your taste buds guide you! Enjoy experimenting!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying this easy coleslaw recipe, it’s good to have a rough idea of the nutritional content, but keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The following estimates are based on a standard serving size of 1 cup:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 2g
These numbers give you a helpful guideline for your meal planning. So whether you’re enjoying coleslaw as a side dish or a topping, you’ll know you’re getting a deliciously crunchy option that brings flavor to your plate without too much guilt. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
I know you might have a few questions about this easy coleslaw recipe, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones! First off, how do you store leftovers? It’s super simple! Just transfer any leftover coleslaw into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should last about 2 to 3 days, but keep in mind that the cabbage will continue to soften over time. It’s still tasty, just a little less crunchy!
Next, can you make it in advance? Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a few hours ahead of time or even the night before. The flavors really have a chance to meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious! Just remember to give it a good toss just before serving to refresh those flavors.
Oh, and if you’re wondering about serving it warm, coleslaw is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but I wouldn’t recommend heating it up. The creamy dressing just doesn’t hold up well with heat. So, keep it chilled and enjoy the refreshing crunch alongside your favorite dishes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Perfect balance of flavors with creamy, tangy, and sweet notes.
- Versatile for various meals, whether it’s barbecues or weeknight dinners.
- Healthy and refreshing side dish packed with crunchy veggies.
Trust me, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again! It’s not just easy to make, but it also pairs perfectly with so many dishes, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavors that everyone will love!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear from you! If you give this easy coleslaw recipe a try, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Did you add your own twist to it? Share your experiences, tips, or any variations you came up with—I’m always looking for new ideas! And if you enjoyed it, don’t forget to rate the recipe. Your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover this delicious dish. So go ahead, dive into the flavors of coleslaw, and let’s create a community of home cooks who love to share their culinary adventures!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog or try our protein cookie recipe for a tasty treat!
For more information on the health benefits of cabbage, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Easy Coleslaw Recipe: 5 Comforting Steps to Deliciousness
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and quick coleslaw recipe that is perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
- Toss until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar.
- For a tangier flavor, add more vinegar.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: easy coleslaw recipe