Name: Classic coleslaw recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small head cabbage, finely shredded; 2 large carrots, grated; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon celery seed; to taste salt and pepper

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There’s something special about classic coleslaw that speaks to the heart and palate. Creamy, tangy, and just a hint of sweetness, this side dish brings a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements barbecued meats, sandwiches, and summer picnics. With its vibrant colors and textures, each bite of coleslaw is a delightful explosion of crunchiness balanced by a rich dressing. It’s a dish that reminds us of family gatherings, potlucks, and lazy summer days, where each forkful transports us back to those cherished moments around the table.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Classic coleslaw recipes
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Classic coleslaw recipes

When I first learned how to make coleslaw, it was a revelation. The simplicity of shredded cabbage tossed with fresh carrots and a creamy dressing created something that felt both homemade and nostalgic. Unlike store-bought versions saturated in preservatives, this classic coleslaw recipe is a breeze to whip up, taking just 15 minutes of your time, plus a little chill in the fridge to let the flavors meld. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll see why this classic coleslaw recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute BBQs or gatherings.
Irresistible Flavor: The balance of tangy apple cider vinegar and sweet sugar creates a dressing that makes every bite sing.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The beautiful colors from the cabbage and carrots make this salad a visual treat on any table.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a side dish, topping for tacos, or a crunchy addition to sandwiches.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for vegan lifestyles by replacing mayonnaise with vegan alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 small head cabbage, finely shredded: For a classic taste, opt for green cabbage. It’s the foundational vegetable that gives coleslaw its signature crunch.
2 large carrots, grated: Freshly grated carrots add sweetness and a bright color that enhances the salad’s appeal.
½ cup mayonnaise: A high-quality mayonnaise will ensure a creamy consistency and rich flavor. If you’re watching calories, try light mayonnaise.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This lends a zesty brightness; you can substitute it with white wine vinegar for a more robust flavor.
2 tablespoons sugar: Sweetness balances the tanginess of the vinegar; adjust to your taste for a more personalized flavor.
1 teaspoon celery seed: A must-have for authentic coleslaw flavor, it adds a subtle but distinctive warmth.
To taste salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor profile.

How to Make Classic coleslaw recipes

Prepare the Cabbage: Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage and finely shred the rest. Use a sharp knife or mandolin for even pieces, ensuring every bite has that delightful crunch.

Grate the Carrots: Peel and grate the carrots, then combine them with the cabbage in a large bowl. Their sweetness and vibrant color will instantly brighten your salad.

Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon celery seed, and salt and pepper until completely smooth. This creamy dressing is what makes your coleslaw rich and decadent.

Adjust to Taste: Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more sugar for sweetness or an extra teaspoon of vinegar for brightness. Tailoring it to your preference makes all the difference!

Combine Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, then toss everything thoroughly until lightly coated. Ensure each piece is evenly dressed for maximum flavor.

Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and enhances the coleslaw’s crunch—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover coleslaw, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to let it sit at room temperature, aim for no longer than 2 hours, especially in warm settings. For long-term storage, you can freeze coleslaw for up to 3 months, but be aware that the texture may change after thawing. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. Refresh the flavors by adding a bit more vinegar or sugar as needed.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid watery coleslaw by salting the shredded cabbage for 10 to 15 minutes before mixing. This process draws out excess moisture and keeps the final product crisp.
If you prefer a tangier flavor, don’t shy away from adding a touch of Dijon mustard to the dressing. It’ll add a delightful kick!
Make your coleslaw a few hours or even a day ahead of time to let the flavors develop even more.
Experiment with additional ingredients like diced apples, raisins, or even chopped nuts for added texture and flavor enhancements.

There’s nothing quite like serving up a dish of classic coleslaw that speaks to both the season and your growing family traditions. Each bite reminds us of beautiful summer days and cherished gatherings, making this an essential recipe to keep in your culinary repertoire. Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this classic, as there’s so much room for creativity! Enjoy every crunch and flavor, knowing that you’re savoring an authentic taste of Americana.

Recipe FAQs

How long does coleslaw last in the fridge?

Coleslaw can last in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. However, for optimal flavor and texture, it’s best enjoyed within the first one or two days after making it, as it may become soggy due to the dressing.

Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, allowing coleslaw to chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight enhances its flavor as the ingredients meld together beautifully. Just be sure to stir it well before serving.

Is coleslaw healthy?

Coleslaw can be a healthy option, especially when you control the ingredients. Using fresh veggies like cabbage and carrots is nutritious, and by adjusting the mayo and sugar, you can make it even lighter.

Can I customize my coleslaw?

Of course! Coleslaw is incredibly versatile. You can add fruits like apples or pineapples for sweetness, experiment with different types of vinegar, or even incorporate proteins like shredded chicken or bacon for a heartier meal.

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Classic coleslaw recipes

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Author: Dorothy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salads
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

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Description

This classic coleslaw recipe is a delightful mix of finely shredded cabbage and grated carrots, tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s quick to prepare and offers a crunchy, refreshing side dish perfect for any meal or summer barbecue. Enjoy the balanced flavors that make this coleslaw a favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

1 small head cabbage, finely shredded
2 large carrots, grated
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon celery seed
to taste salt and pepper

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Instructions

Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage and finely shred the remaining cabbage.
Peel and grate the carrots, then mix them together with the shredded cabbage in a large bowl.