A classic coleslaw recipe combines finely shredded green cabbage and carrots with a creamy dressing. The dressing is typically made from a base of mayonnaise, a splash of vinegar for tang, and a small amount of sugar for sweetness, resulting in a perfectly balanced, crunchy, and refreshing side dish.
Are you looking for a perfect side dish that complements any meal, adds a delightful crunch, and has everyone asking for the recipe? If you’re tired of complex instructions and want to make healthy, tasty food for your family, you’ve come to the right place. We specialize in simple, flavorful meals, and our Easiest Creamy Coleslaw is here to transform your dinner table. This classic recipe is incredibly easy to follow and guarantees a delicious result that will quickly become a family favorite.
Our goal is to make Approachable home cooking a reality for everyone. We offer clear, step-by-step guidance without intimidating jargon. Whether you’re a beginner building confidence or a busy home cook who needs quick, family-friendly meals, this easy slaw is the perfect solution. We’ll show you how to make the perfect creamy dressing using everyday ingredients, complete with practical tips, substitutions, and even a KFC-style variation. Get ready to enjoy stress-free cooking and discover how simple homemade coleslaw can be!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Coleslaw Recipe
Searching for a side dish that’s both delicious and simple? This easy coleslaw recipe is your new go-to, delivering a creamy, refreshing crunch with minimal effort.
We know that complex recipes and long ingredient lists can be overwhelming. That’s why this creamy coleslaw is so beginner-friendly. It’s designed to help you build confidence in the kitchen, one simple step at a time.
- Super Simple & Quick: Ready in minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. It’s a delicious solution that’s even faster than ordering takeout.
- Flavorful & Satisfying: Our homemade dressing strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, while the crisp cabbage adds a delightful texture for a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Family-Friendly Favorite: As a classic side dish loved by all ages, coleslaw is an ideal addition to any family meal. Even picky eaters often enjoy its mild, refreshing taste.
- Approachable Home Cooking: No fancy culinary skills required! Our step-by-step guidance makes this recipe foolproof, helping you master a classic dish with confidence.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: From picnics and potlucks to weeknight dinners, this slaw complements countless dishes. Serve it alongside barbecue, fried chicken, or even fish tacos.
- Enjoy Cooking Without Stress: Forget complicated steps and long prep times. This simple recipe lets you relax and create something delicious with ease.
At Recipesmondial, we believe cooking should be enjoyable, not daunting. This easy coleslaw recipe perfectly embodies our mission by offering reliable results and incredible flavor. Get ready to discover your new favorite side dish!
What Ingredients Do You Need for Coleslaw?
For the Cabbage Slaw
The secret to a perfect creamy coleslaw is using fresh, vibrant vegetables. You don’t need fancy ingredients—just everyday staples that combine to create that classic crunch and fresh taste. It makes an amazing component for any simple dinner recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need for the slaw base:
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 pounds): This is the heart of your coleslaw. Look for a firm head that feels heavy for its size. You’ll want to finely shred it.
- 2 medium carrots: Carrots add a lovely sweetness and a pop of color. Shred them finely too.
Quick Tip for the Slaw: To save time, buy a pre-shredded coleslaw mix—it’s perfect for quick meals. For extra visual appeal and texture, add a bit of shredded red cabbage to the mix.
For the Creamy Coleslaw Dressing
The magic of great coleslaw is in the dressing. This simple recipe creates a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy creaminess that coats the vegetables beautifully. Best of all, the ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it incredibly easy to whip up.
Here are the simple ingredients for our delicious dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise: This forms the rich, creamy base of your coleslaw dressing. Use your favorite brand for the best results.
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Vinegar adds that essential tang that brightens up the flavors. You can also use apple cider vinegar for a slightly different note.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: A touch of sugar balances the tanginess of the vinegar and enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle depth and a hint of zest, and it also helps to emulsify the dressing.
- ½ teaspoon celery salt: This is the secret to a classic, deli-style coleslaw flavor. If you don’t have any, substitute with ¼ teaspoon regular salt and ¼ teaspoon celery seed.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of fresh black pepper helps round out all the flavors.
Substitution Ideas for Your Dressing: This recipe is very flexible. For a lighter dressing, replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. To reduce the sweetness, simply use less sugar or your favorite sugar substitute.
How to Make Coleslaw: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to whip up the perfect creamy coleslaw? This step-by-step guide makes it a breeze. You don’t need to be a chef to create this delightful side dish, as our easy-to-follow recipe is designed for home cooks building confidence. Get ready to enjoy a stress-free cooking experience.
Making delicious slaw is incredibly simple. With this guide, you will quickly master the classic recipe and achieve reliable, flavorful results every time. Follow these clear steps to create a vibrant dish that is sure to become a family favorite.
- Prepare Your Veggies: Begin with fresh cabbage and carrots. If using a whole head of cabbage, shred it finely with a sharp knife or a food processor. Next, grate the carrots. For a convenient shortcut, a pre-shredded coleslaw mix is a fantastic option that saves time without sacrificing flavor. This is a great tip for quick meals.
- Whisk the Creamy Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Be sure there are no lumps. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking, as a little extra sugar or vinegar can make a big difference.
- Combine and Toss: Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss until the vegetables are fully and evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the cabbage watery. Simply mix until everything looks uniformly dressed.
- Chill for Flavor Development: This step is crucial for the best taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes, though an hour is even better. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dressing to slightly soften the cabbage, creating that perfect coleslaw texture. This dish tastes even better if made a few hours ahead, making it great for meal prep.
- Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the coleslaw another gentle stir to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed. Serve this fresh, creamy side dish alongside your favorite meals. It’s a versatile accompaniment that pairs well with almost anything.
Tips for the Best Traditional Coleslaw
Crafting the perfect coleslaw is simple with a few helpful pointers. These tips will ensure your dish is always a hit, helping you cook with confidence.
- Freshness Matters: Always use the freshest cabbage and carrots you can find. Crisp ingredients make a huge difference in the final taste and crunch.
- Don’t Overdress: It’s easier to add more dressing than it is to remove it. Start with a little less than you think you need to avoid a soggy result.
- Season to Taste: Taste your dressing before you combine it with the vegetables. Adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar levels to suit your personal preference.
- Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step. This essential time allows the flavors to deepen and ensures the cabbage softens to the ideal texture.
- Shredding Size: For a consistent texture, aim to shred your vegetables uniformly. This ensures every bite is perfect.
- Make Ahead: Coleslaw is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Preparing it a few hours in advance makes mealtime stress-free and can even enhance the flavor, making it a great family-friendly meal component.
- Spice it Up (Optional): For a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Tips for Making the Best Traditional Coleslaw
Making the best traditional coleslaw is simpler than you think. With a few key tips, you can transform simple ingredients into a creamy, crunchy side dish that everyone will love. These pointers will help you avoid common pitfalls and master this classic recipe.
Choose Your Cabbage Wisely
The foundation of any great coleslaw is fresh cabbage. The quality of your cabbage directly impacts the final taste and texture of the slaw.
- Freshness First: Pick a head of cabbage that feels heavy for its size. The leaves should be crisp and vibrant, with no signs of wilting or discoloration.
- Green or Red Cabbage: While green cabbage is traditional, red cabbage adds a pop of color and a slightly earthier flavor. For the best visual appeal and depth, try using a mix of both.
- Shredding Methods: You can shred cabbage by hand with a sharp knife, but a food processor with a shredding disc makes the job much faster. A mandoline also works well for creating uniform pieces.
Perfecting the Dressing Balance
The dressing is where the magic happens. A well-balanced creamy dressing is the key to a memorable coleslaw.
- Sweetness is Essential: Don’t skip the sugar, as it balances the tang from the vinegar. Granulated sugar, honey, or a touch of maple syrup all work well.
- Tang for Brightness: Apple cider vinegar is a classic choice. For an extra zesty note, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Creaminess Counts: Mayonnaise provides the creamy base. Use full-fat mayo for maximum richness or a lighter version if you prefer. For added depth, try mixing in a spoonful of buttermilk.
- Season Generously: Always taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings. Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the flavors, and a pinch of celery seed is a classic secret ingredient in many a coleslaw recipe.
Preventing Watery Coleslaw
Nobody enjoys a soggy slaw. Follow these steps to keep your coleslaw crisp and delicious.
- Salt the Cabbage: After shredding, place the cabbage in a colander and toss it with about 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes. This simple step draws out excess moisture.
- Squeeze and Drain: Next, rinse the cabbage thoroughly under cold water to remove the salt. Squeeze out as much water as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for a crunchy texture.
The Magic of Chilling Time
Patience is key when making coleslaw. Allowing the slaw to rest before serving makes a significant difference.
- Mellow Flavors: For the best taste, let your coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for 2-4 hours. This resting period allows the flavors of the dressing to meld with the cabbage [1].
- Softer Texture: Chilling also helps the cabbage soften just enough to absorb the dressing, resulting in a more cohesive and enjoyable texture.
Adding Extra Flair to Your Slaw
While classic coleslaw is fantastic on its own, you can easily add extra crunch and flavor with a few simple ingredients.
- Carrot and Onion: Shredded carrots provide natural sweetness and vibrant color, while finely minced red or green onion offers a mild, zesty bite.
- Crispy Add-ins: For a welcome textural contrast, try adding toasted sunflower seeds, chopped nuts, or bacon bits just before serving.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill brightens the flavor of your coleslaw and adds an aromatic finish.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a consistently delicious traditional coleslaw. It’s the perfect side dish for cookouts, potlucks, and family-friendly meals.
What Are Some Different Coleslaw Recipes and Variations?
KFC Style Coleslaw Recipe
Craving that iconic, creamy, and slightly sweet coleslaw from KFC? You’re in luck! Recreating this family favorite at home is much simpler than you might think.
The secret to its signature taste is an extra-fine chop of the vegetables and a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy dressing.
How to Achieve That Signature Taste and Texture:
- Finely Chop Your Veggies: For the creamiest texture, use a food processor to get a quick and consistent chop. You want the cabbage and carrots to be almost minced, not thickly shredded.
- Sweet and Tangy Dressing: The dressing is a smooth blend of mayonnaise, milk, a touch of buttermilk (or lemon juice for tang), sugar, white vinegar, and a pinch of onion powder.
- Let it Chill: Like the original, this slaw tastes best after chilling for at least an hour or two. This gives the flavors time to meld together.
This beginner-friendly recipe is a quick and reliable way to bring a classic comfort food to any gathering.
Coleslaw Recipe Without Mayo (Vinegar Slaw)
For a lighter, brighter take on coleslaw, a vinegar-based slaw is the perfect answer. This version is naturally dairy-free and offers a refreshing tang instead of creamy richness.
This slaw is perfect for warmer weather, for cutting through rich main dishes, or simply for when you’re out of mayonnaise.
Simple Vinegar Dressing Ingredients:
- Oil: A neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil works well. Olive oil can also be used for a robust flavor.
- Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a popular choice for its mild, fruity tang. White wine vinegar or even rice vinegar can also be used.
- Sweetener: A little sugar, honey, or maple syrup balances the tartness.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and perhaps a touch of celery seed or dried dill add depth.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: A finely minced shallot or a spoonful of Dijon mustard can elevate the taste.
Simply whisk these ingredients together and toss with your shredded cabbage and carrots for a delicious result every time.
Fun Add-ins for Extra Flavor and Crunch
One of the best parts of making coleslaw from scratch is how easily you can customize it. Simple additions can transform a basic recipe into something uniquely yours.
Here are some of our favorite additions to boost flavor, texture, and visual appeal:
- For Extra Crunch:
- Toasted Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds add a lovely nutty depth.
- Seeds: Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds provide a delicate crunch.
- Crispy Noodles: Fried wonton strips or ramen noodles (untoasted) can be a fun addition.
- Bell Peppers: Finely diced red, yellow, or orange bell peppers add a fresh snap.
- For Sweetness and Fruitiness:
- Dried Cranberries or Raisins: These add a chewy sweetness.
- Apple: Diced Granny Smith or Fuji apples offer a crisp, juicy bite.
- Pineapple: Crushed or tidbit pineapple can bring a tropical flair (drain well!).
- For Bold Flavors:
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, cilantro, dill, or chives brighten the flavor.
- Jalapeño: A finely minced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) adds a gentle kick.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a sharper, more pungent flavor.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles: For a gourmet touch, especially with a creamy dressing.
Experiment with these ideas to find your favorite combinations and create a signature slaw.
What Can You Serve With Coleslaw?
With its cool crunch and tangy flavor, creamy homemade coleslaw is an incredibly versatile side dish. This easy coleslaw recipe is the perfect companion for countless family-friendly meals.
Classic BBQ and Comfort Food Pairings
As a staple at any barbecue or picnic, coleslaw is also the go-to side for many beloved comfort foods.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The crisp, cool slaw perfectly balances the rich, smoky flavor of pulled pork, creating an easy and delicious meal.
- BBQ Ribs: A tangy dressing adds a refreshing contrast that beautifully complements both sweet and savory BBQ ribs.
- Grilled Chicken: A generous scoop alongside grilled chicken breasts or thighs creates a fresh and satisfying plate.
- Fried Chicken: Our creamy recipe tastes just like the classic KFC coleslaw, making it the ideal companion for a crispy fried chicken dinner.
- Fish and Chips: Coleslaw offers a zesty, crisp counterpoint to rich, battered fish and hot fries.
Elevating Everyday Meals
This simple coleslaw isn’t just for special occasions. It’s a fantastic way to elevate everyday meals, from quick lunches to simple dinners, making your cooking more enjoyable and stress-free.
- Tacos and Wraps:
- Fish Tacos: Use coleslaw as a crunchy, flavorful topping to add amazing texture and zest.
- Chicken or Pork Wraps: For a fast and delicious lunch, fill wraps with leftover cooked meat and a spoonful of slaw. This is also a great meal prep idea.
- Sandwiches and Burgers:
- Hamburgers and Hot Dogs: Add a dollop to your burger or hot dog for an extra burst of crunch and flavor.
- Veggie Burgers: Transform a basic veggie burger into a special meal by adding a scoop of fresh coleslaw.
- Baked and Roasted Mains:
- Roasted Chicken or Pork: A side of fresh slaw brightens up any comforting roasted meat dinner.
- Baked Salmon: The creamy texture and tang of the slaw pair wonderfully with flaky baked salmon.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Slaw
Don’t limit this delicious recipe to a traditional side dish. Get creative with your flavorful coleslaw!
- Salad Topper: Add a spoonful to a green salad for extra crunch and a creamy, zesty element.
- Picnic Staple: As a refreshing addition to any outdoor gathering, coleslaw is a lighter alternative to heavier pasta or potato salads.
As you can see, homemade coleslaw is remarkably versatile, pairing well with everything from quick weeknight lunches to impressive weekend dinners. Enjoy discovering all the delightful ways to serve this simple, flavorful side! You are now equipped to make cooking enjoyable and stress-free with Recipesmondial’s easy recipes.
How to Store Leftover Coleslaw
You’ve whipped up a fantastic batch of our easy creamy coleslaw recipe! It’s so fresh and flavorful, you might not have leftovers. However, if you do, storing them correctly is key. Proper storage helps you enjoy every last bite, minimize food waste, and simplify future meal prep.
How to Keep Your Coleslaw Fresh
To ensure your leftover coleslaw stays delicious and safe to eat, follow these simple steps for the best results:
- Use an Airtight Container: Transfer any remaining coleslaw into a clean, airtight container. This prevents air from drying out the cabbage and degrading the dressing. It also seals out other refrigerator odors.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Always store coleslaw in the refrigerator, as the cool temperature slows bacterial growth. This step is especially important for dressings that contain mayonnaise.
- Check the Shelf Life: When stored properly in the fridge, homemade creamy coleslaw usually stays fresh for 3 to 4 days [2]. After this period, the texture and flavor may start to decline.
Dealing with Watery Coleslaw
One common issue with leftover coleslaw is that it can become watery over time. This happens because salt in the dressing draws moisture out of the cabbage. Don’t worry—this is simple to manage.
- Drain Excess Liquid: Before serving your leftovers, give the coleslaw a gentle stir. If you see a pool of liquid at the bottom of the container, carefully drain it off to improve the texture.
- Consider Separate Storage (Pro Tip): If you’re making a large batch for meal prep, store the shredded cabbage mix and the creamy dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the slaw extra crunchy for longer.
- Stir Before Serving: Always give your stored coleslaw a good stir right before you eat it. This will help reincorporate the dressing and distribute any separated liquid evenly.
Even if it’s a little softer the next day, leftover coleslaw is still wonderful as a quick side dish or a topping for sandwiches. Learning how to store food correctly builds confidence in the kitchen and makes approachable home cooking even more rewarding. Enjoy your delicious recipes to the last bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ingredients in a traditional coleslaw?
A traditional coleslaw recipe is simple, focusing on fresh, crisp vegetables and a creamy dressing. The main ingredient is cabbage, often a mix of green and red varieties for color.
Here are the key components:
- Shredded Cabbage: Typically green cabbage, often mixed with a bit of red cabbage.
- Shredded Carrots: These add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Creamy Dressing: This usually features mayonnaise as its base.
This classic combination creates a refreshing side dish and is a fantastic, beginner-friendly recipe for any home cook.
How do you make a simple coleslaw dressing?
Making a simple, creamy coleslaw dressing is quick and easy. This recipe comes together in just a few minutes and adds fantastic flavor to shredded vegetables.
Here’s what you need for a basic yet flavorful dressing:
- Mayonnaise
- White vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Sugar or a natural sweetener
- A touch of Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
To make the dressing:
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard.
- Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust as needed.
- Pour the dressing over your shredded cabbage and carrots, then toss gently to coat.
This dressing transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful side dish, perfect for a quick family meal.
Can you make coleslaw dressing without mayo?
Yes, you can easily make a delicious coleslaw dressing without mayonnaise. For a lighter option or if you prefer to avoid mayo, this variation—often called a vinegar slaw—is a great alternative.
A vinegar-based dressing provides a tangy, bright flavor and holds up well in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep.
Common ingredients for a mayo-free dressing include:
- Olive oil or another neutral oil
- Vinegar (apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, or rice vinegar work well)
- Sugar or honey, to balance the tang
- Dijon mustard for a little kick
- Salt and pepper
- Optional additions: celery seeds, poppy seeds, or a pinch of red pepper flakes
To prepare it, simply whisk all the ingredients together and pour the dressing over your shredded vegetables. This fresh take on slaw is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic side dish with a different twist, creating a healthy option for family meals.
Get the Easiest Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Ready for a perfect, creamy, and undeniably delicious coleslaw recipe? Forget complicated instructions and bland, watery results. This simple guide guarantees a crowd-pleasing side dish every single time.
At Recipesmondial, we believe cooking should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore. This easy coleslaw recipe was designed with that in mind. It’s perfect for home cooks, busy families, and anyone who wants a great meal without the stress.
Here’s why this is the easiest and best creamy coleslaw you’ll ever make:
- Beginner-Friendly: Our step-by-step guidance makes it nearly impossible to go wrong. You’ll build kitchen confidence with every simple chop and stir.
- Quick to Make: This coleslaw comes together in minutes, making it the ideal side for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.
- Family-Friendly: The classic, creamy flavor is a hit with everyone, even picky eaters. It’s a versatile side that complements almost any meal.
- Simply Flavorful: We use fresh, everyday ingredients to deliver maximum taste without any fuss. The homemade coleslaw dressing recipe is the true star.
- Approachable Cooking: Say goodbye to overwhelming instructions. We keep our recipes clear, practical, and focused on incredible flavor.
This classic, homemade slaw is more than just a side dish—it’s proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re craving the iconic taste of a KFC coleslaw recipe or just want a fresh, crunchy addition to your dinner, this recipe delivers.
So, go ahead and give it a try! You’re moments away from serving the freshest, most delicious homemade creamy coleslaw. Let Recipesmondial help you discover new flavors and make mealtime stress-free. Happy cooking!