Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with barbecues, sandwiches, and picnics. This recipe features fresh shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Shred the cabbage into thin slices and grate the carrots. Thinly sliced cabbage helps keep the coleslaw crisp and crunchy.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Step 3: Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrots into the bowl with the dressing.
- Step 4: Gently toss the vegetables with the dressing until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Step 6: Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss to ensure it’s creamy and delicious.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add finely chopped celery or green onions to the mix.
- Swap apple cider vinegar with lemon juice for a brighter, fresher tang.
- Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a healthier, lighter version.
- Add a pinch of celery seed for a traditional flavor boost.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may separate slightly. This coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh but still holds up well for a couple of days.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, making coleslaw a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to develop more fully. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How can I keep coleslaw from becoming soggy?
Use fresh, crisp cabbage and slice it thinly. Toss the cabbage with a bit of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes before draining excess moisture. This helps reduce sogginess in the final dish.
PrintOld-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
This Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw is a classic side dish featuring fresh shredded green cabbage and grated carrots tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar and spices. Perfectly crunchy and flavorful, it’s a traditional favorite for barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing accompaniment to any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preparation: Shred the cabbage finely and grate the carrots using a grater, aiming for thin, uniform pieces to maximize the crunch and texture of your coleslaw.
- Mixing the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully combined to create a creamy, tangy dressing.
- Combining Ingredients: Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrots into the bowl containing the dressing, ensuring all the vegetables will be coated evenly.
- Tossing Together: Gently toss the cabbage and carrots with the dressing until every piece is well coated with the creamy mixture, making sure not to bruise the vegetables.
- Chill: For best flavor, cover the coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes allowing the ingredients to meld and the flavors to deepen.
- Serving: Before serving, give the coleslaw a final gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and enjoy a crisp, creamy, and flavorful salad.
Notes
- For crunchier coleslaw, use fresh, crisp cabbage and grate the carrots finely.
- You can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener variation.
- If you prefer a lighter dressing, reduce the mayonnaise and substitute part of it with Greek yogurt.
- Make sure not to overdress the coleslaw to keep the perfect balance of creaminess and crunch.
- Coleslaw is best served chilled but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
Keywords: Creamy coleslaw, old-fashioned coleslaw, classic coleslaw recipe, green cabbage salad, creamy cabbage salad, picnic side dish, barbecue side, tangy coleslaw
