Creamy and Crunchy Coleslaw Recipe

Coleslaw is the ultimate side dish that perfectly complements summer barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. This creamy coleslaw is not just your average cabbage salad; it’s a delightful mix of crunchy vegetables and a smooth dressing that brings everything together. Whether you’re grilling burgers or serving fried chicken, this coleslaw will elevate your meal.

Let’s face it, a good coleslaw can make or break a barbecue. With its crisp texture and tangy flavor, this recipe is designed to impress. It’s quick to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an easy choice for entertaining guests.

Understanding Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that enhances a variety of meals, especially during the warmer months.

This colorful salad primarily consists of finely shredded green cabbage and vibrant orange carrots.

It’s not just about the crunch; the smooth and glossy mayonnaise dressing ties the ingredients together, making every bite delightful.

Key Ingredients for a Great Coleslaw

The essence of a fantastic coleslaw lies in its ingredients.

Start with fresh, crisp green cabbage, finely shredded for the right texture.

Bright orange carrots, grated to provide a sweet counterbalance, add color and taste, creating a visually appealing dish that’s hard to resist.

Preparing the Creamy Dressing

The dressing is crucial for the coleslaw’s flavor profile.

A simple blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard creates a balance of creaminess and tanginess.

This smooth dressing complements the crunchy vegetables, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Texture and Flavor Balance

Achieving the perfect coleslaw means balancing textures—crunchy cabbage and carrots with a smooth, creamy dressing.

Seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper elevates the dish, providing a burst of flavor with each bite.

This harmony of textures and tastes ensures your coleslaw is not just a side, but a standout dish.

Chilling for Maximum Flavor

One of the best practices for preparing coleslaw is to let it chill in the refrigerator.

Cover your bowl and allow the flavors to meld together for at least 30 minutes before serving.

This step enhances the taste and ensures a refreshing side that is perfect for any summer gathering.

Serving Suggestions

Coleslaw is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, picnic spreads, or even as a topping for sandwiches.

Its refreshing crunch and creamy dressing complement rich dishes, making it a popular choice for barbecues and gatherings.

Serve it alongside burgers, fried chicken, or even as a standalone dish on a warm day to enjoy its crispness.

The Best Coleslaw Recipe

This coleslaw recipe features finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing that strikes a balance between sweet and tangy, offering a refreshing taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Toss them together to ensure even distribution.
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
4. Chill: Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve: Give the coleslaw a quick toss before serving and enjoy this crunchy, creamy delight!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 150kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 14g