Best Homemade Coleslaw Recipe
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that brings a refreshing crunch and creamy flavor to any meal. Made with crisp cabbage, carrots, and a tangy, flavorful dressing, it is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with barbecues, sandwiches, burgers, and fried foods. Its bright colors and crisp texture make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
What makes homemade coleslaw so special is the freshness and control over flavors. Unlike store bought versions, you can adjust the seasoning, sweetness, and creaminess to suit your taste perfectly. Easy to prepare in minutes, this coleslaw recipe is a go to for family dinners, picnics, and gatherings, providing a light and crunchy complement to richer dishes.
Why You Need This Recipe
This homemade coleslaw recipe is a must try because it delivers fresh, crisp vegetables coated in a creamy, tangy dressing that is perfectly balanced. Unlike pre packaged coleslaw, making it at home allows you to control the flavours, sweetness, and texture, resulting in a fresher and more vibrant dish.
Another reason you need this recipe is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, tacos, or as a standalone salad. Quick to prepare and full of flavour, this coleslaw is perfect for family meals, barbecues, and picnics. Once you try this easy recipe, it will become your go to side dish for adding crunch and freshness to any meal.
Ingredients
This coleslaw recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together for a creamy, crunchy, and flavorful side dish. Here’s a breakdown with estimated calories per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Green cabbage | 4 cups, shredded | 88 |
| Carrots | 1 cup, shredded | 50 |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup (120 g) | 800 |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tbsp | 6 |
| Honey or sugar | 1 tbsp | 64 |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | 1 |
Estimated Total Calories for the whole recipe: ~1,014
Calories per serving (4 portions): ~254
How to Prepare
To make the best homemade coleslaw, start by shredding the green cabbage and carrots finely for a crisp, uniform texture. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a touch of honey for sweetness. For the best flavor, refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled alongside your favorite sandwiches, grilled meats, or as a refreshing addition to any meal.
Pro Tips
For the best coleslaw, use fresh, crisp cabbage and carrots, as they provide the ideal crunch and freshness. Shred the vegetables finely and evenly so the dressing coats them well and the texture is consistent. To enhance flavour, let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the dressing to meld with the vegetables.
If you prefer a lighter version, substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for creaminess without extra fat. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the dressing to your taste by adding more honey, sugar, or vinegar. For extra colour and texture, you can add shredded red cabbage, bell peppers, or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. These small tweaks elevate your coleslaw from ordinary to restaurant quality.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. It is a classic companion for grilled meats, burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches, providing a refreshing crunch that balances rich and savoury flavours. It also works well alongside fried foods like chicken or fish, adding a light and tangy contrast to heavier dishes.
For toppings, you can keep it simple with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a few fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Adding a handful of toasted nuts or seeds gives extra crunch and a nutty flavour. For a hint of sweetness, drizzle a little honey or add diced apple to the mix. These simple touches enhance both the taste and appearance of your coleslaw, making it a standout addition to any meal.
Conclusion
Homemade coleslaw is a fresh, crunchy, and creamy side dish that adds flavour and texture to any meal. With simple ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing, it is quick to prepare and much fresher than store bought versions. Its versatility makes it perfect for family dinners, barbecues, picnics, and casual gatherings.
By following this easy recipe and incorporating a few pro tips, you can create a coleslaw that is crisp, flavourful, and perfectly balanced every time. Serve it alongside sandwiches, grilled meats, or fried foods, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing salad. Once you make this homemade coleslaw, it will become a staple in your meal rotation, delighting everyone at the table.
