The crunch of fresh cabbage, the touch of creamy dressing, and a hint of sweetness—there’s something undeniably satisfying about homemade coleslaw. When I last hosted friends for a summertime cookout, I decided to elevate our standard side dishes with a vibrant bowl of this classic recipe. As soon as the first bite hit my palate, I was reminded of carefree days at family barbecues, where coleslaw reigned as a staple of celebration.
This Quick and Creamy Classic Coleslaw is not just easy and delicious; it’s also a versatile companion to any meal, from grilled meats to hearty sandwiches. Prepared in just 10 minutes with ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s the perfect solution for those seeking to add a fresh, homemade touch to their dining experience. So, let’s dive into this simple yet remarkable recipe that can transform your summer gatherings or weekday dinners into something special!
Why is Homemade Coleslaw a Must-Try?
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this coleslaw in a flash—ideal for busy schedules!
Crisp Texture: The blend of green and red cabbage gives a delightful crunch, making every bite satisfying.
Creamy & Tangy: The sweet and tangy dressing perfectly complements the vegetables, adding a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
Versatility: This coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats, barbecues, or as a topping for sandwiches, enhancing any meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a picnic or a dinner party, your guests will rave about this refreshing side dish!
Enjoy the effortless charm of homemade coleslaw, and take your meals to the next level!
Homemade Coleslaw Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to make your own delicious homemade coleslaw!
For the Vegetables
- Green Cabbage – offers crispness and structure; use half a head or around 6 cups thinly shredded.
- Red Cabbage – adds vibrant color and crunch; you can substitute it entirely with green cabbage if desired.
- Carrot – grated or julienned, it enhances sweetness and brings a lovely pop of color.
- Green Onion – provides a fresh flavor; chop it finely for better integration into the salad.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – serves as the creamy base of the dressing; swap it out for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Honey – adds a touch of natural sweetness; feel free to replace it with granulated sugar to taste.
- Fine Sea Salt – enhances the overall flavor profile; adjust according to your personal preference.
- Black Pepper – contributes a subtle hint of spice; freshly ground is recommended for the best taste.
- Lemon Juice – adds acidity to balance the sweetness; apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be good substitutes.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll have everything necessary to create a crowd-pleasing homemade coleslaw that’s perfect for any occasion!
How to Make Homemade Coleslaw
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Shred the Cabbage: Begin by finely shredding the green and red cabbage. You’ll want about 6 cups of a crunchy mixture. Add it to a large mixing bowl.
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Prepare the Carrot: Grate or julienne the carrot. This sweet addition not only enhances flavor but also adds a vibrant color to your coleslaw. Toss it in with the cabbage.
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Chop the Green Onion: Finely chop the green onion, releasing its fresh flavor. Mix it with the cabbage and carrot to ensure that every bite is bursting with goodness.
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Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy, creating that delightful dressing.
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Combine Everything: Drizzle the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss gently until everything is well-coated and the colors come together beautifully.
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Serve or Chill: Serve immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate the ingredients separately until you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain that satisfying crunch!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Quick and Creamy Classic Coleslaw?
Transform your dining experience with delightful pairing options that enhance the freshness of your coleslaw.
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Grilled BBQ Ribs: The smoky, savory flavor of ribs beautifully contrasts the creamy coleslaw, creating a perfect balance on your plate.
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Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Use coleslaw as a crunchy topping to add texture and a refreshing tanginess that complements the rich pork.
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Baked Chicken: Whether roasted or fried, tender chicken pairs well with the crisp salad, providing a lovely contrast of textures and flavors.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn adds a burst of sweetness that harmonizes wonderfully with the tangy dressing of the coleslaw.
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Potato Salad: A classic summer duo! The creamy potatoes and crunchy coleslaw together create a satisfying and delightful picnic spread.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet contrast that makes each bite of coleslaw shine even brighter.
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Lemonade: This tangy drink is a perfect match for the creamy elements, quenching thirst and enhancing the meal’s flavors.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, the warm, gooey cookies add an indulgent touch, rounding out the meal with sweetness after the crisp coleslaw.
Homemade Coleslaw Variations
There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen, so why not explore some fun twists on your homemade coleslaw?
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Tangy Twist: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra zing that brightens the flavor. The vibrant acidity complements the sweetness beautifully!
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Fruity Flair: Toss in diced apples, raisins, or even crushed pineapple for a sweet surprise. This addition brings additional sweetness and a delightful texture.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. This brings an earthy element that balances the creaminess nicely.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mix. Feel the heat build as it enhances the overall taste experience!
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill can elevate your coleslaw with vibrant flavors. Each herb brings its own unique character, adding layers to the dish.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the mayonnaise with your favorite plant-based yogurt or a vinaigrette for a refreshing dairy-free alternative. You’ll maintain the creamy texture while meeting dietary needs.
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Colorful Replacement: Swap out red and green cabbage entirely for a mix of other colorful vegetables like shredded carrots and beets. You’ll have an eye-catching salad bursting with goodness!
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Asian Infusion: Incorporate sesame oil, soy sauce, and add sliced bell peppers for an Asian-inspired coleslaw. The distinct flavors will transport you to a different culinary landscape!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Coleslaw preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings! You can easily shred the green and red cabbage, grate the carrot, and chop the green onion up to 24 hours in advance. Store the veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. For the dressing, combine mayo, honey, salt, pepper, and lemon juice, but keep it separate until you’re ready to serve; this will prevent the coleslaw from becoming soggy. When the time comes to enjoy your coleslaw, simply toss the prepared vegetables with the dressing, and voila! You have a delightful, fresh side dish in no time, made effortlessly ahead!
Expert Tips for Homemade Coleslaw
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Uniform Shredding: Shred your cabbage uniformly for consistent texture; larger chunks can lead to uneven bites.
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Dress Separately: Keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain crispiness and freshness in your homemade coleslaw.
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Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. It’s easy to add more salt or sweetness, but hard to fix an over-seasoned dish!
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Variation Options: Feel free to experiment! Add fruits like apples or pineapple for a sweet twist, or toss in nuts for added crunch.
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Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days if the dressing is separate; otherwise, enjoy it within a day for optimal freshness.
Storage Tips for Homemade Coleslaw
Fridge: Store your homemade coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the dressing separate until serving will maintain its crunch.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze coleslaw, as freezing can alter the texture of the vegetables, making them mushy upon thawing.
Reheating: If you need to refresh the flavors after storage, lightly toss in a bit of fresh lemon juice or additional dressing to enhance the taste before serving.
Freshness: For the best experience, enjoyed within one day if the dressing is mixed in, ensuring that every bite of coleslaw is crispy and delicious!
Homemade Coleslaw Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for homemade coleslaw?
Absolutely! For a classic crunchy texture, I recommend using a blend of green and red cabbage. If you prefer a milder flavor, all green cabbage works great, while red cabbage adds vibrant color and extra crunch.
How long can I store homemade coleslaw in the refrigerator?
You can keep your homemade coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you store the dressing separately, it may last longer and help maintain that delightful crunch.
Can I freeze homemade coleslaw?
I don’t recommend freezing coleslaw; the texture of the fresh vegetables can turn mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so make just what you need or keep it refrigerated for a few days.
What should I do if my coleslaw is too watery?
Very! If your coleslaw turns out watery, one solution is to drain excess liquid before serving. To prevent this, you can sprinkle salt over the cabbage before mixing, letting it sit for about 15-20 minutes to draw out moisture, and then rinse it and pat dry.
Is this coleslaw suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! This homemade coleslaw is a gluten-free delight. Just ensure your mayonnaise is gluten-free, and you’re good to go. Enjoy this fresh side without any worries!
Can I make coleslaw in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain that delightful texture. When ready to serve, simply toss the ingredients together and enjoy a fresh, crisp dish!
Homemade Coleslaw: Quick, Creamy Delight for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shred the cabbage and add it to a large mixing bowl.
- Grate or julienne the carrot and add it to the bowl.
- Chop the green onion finely and mix it with the cabbage and carrot.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
- Drizzle the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.