Coleslaw is a timeless side dish that brings a refreshing crunch and creamy tang to any meal. This Classic Creamy Coleslaw is made with finely shredded green cabbage and fresh carrots, combined with a luscious dressing that blends mayonnaise, tangy buttermilk, and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a hint of sweetness. A sprinkle of celery seed and black pepper enhances the flavors, making this coleslaw a perfect companion to barbecue, fried chicken, sandwiches, and burgers. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this coleslaw recipe is ideal for picnics, family gatherings, and potlucks.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 small head green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 large carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps to Make Classic Creamy Coleslaw:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Finely shred the cabbage by slicing it as thinly as possible, using a sharp knife, mandoline slicer, or food processor. Grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. Place the cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
   • Add the celery seed, salt, and black pepper to the dressing, and whisk again until well combined.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and grated carrots in the large mixing bowl. Use tongs or a spatula to toss the vegetables and dressing together until all the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated.
4. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
   • Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the coleslaw cold as a side dish to complement your main meal. You can garnish with a few celery seeds or fresh parsley for added color and flavor, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approx. 1 cup):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 1 gram
• Carbohydrates: 10 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Sodium: 240 mg
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugars: 5 grams

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this coleslaw dairy-free?

Yes, if you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free milk alternative (like almond or soy milk) mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tanginess.

Q2: How do I prevent my coleslaw from becoming watery?

Salting the shredded cabbage lightly and letting it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing and draining can help reduce excess water in the coleslaw. However, this step is optional as it may slightly reduce the cabbage’s crunch.

Q3: Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Absolutely! Red cabbage can be used instead of, or in addition to, green cabbage. It adds a vibrant color and a slightly earthier flavor to the coleslaw.

Q4: Can I use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise?

Yes, substituting half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that still provides a creamy texture and slight tang.

Q5: How long will this coleslaw last in the fridge?

This coleslaw will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the texture may begin to soften, and the flavor might change slightly.

Tips for Making the Best Classic Creamy Coleslaw:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   • Fresh cabbage and carrots provide the best texture and flavor. Pre-packaged coleslaw mix can be used for convenience, but freshly shredded vegetables yield a crispier result.
2. Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess:
   • Adjust the amount of sugar and apple cider vinegar to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add an extra teaspoon of sugar. For a tangier flavor, increase the apple cider vinegar slightly.
3. Add Extra Crunch:
   • For more crunch, you can add thinly sliced bell peppers, green onions, or radishes to the coleslaw. These additions enhance both the flavor and texture.
4. Don’t Skip the Chill Time:
   • Allowing the coleslaw to chill for at least an hour before serving improves the flavor by letting the dressing seep into the cabbage and carrots. This step is key to achieving that classic coleslaw taste.
5. Experiment with Herbs and Spices:
   • Try adding fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for added flavor. A sprinkle of mustard powder, ground coriander, or smoked paprika can also give a unique twist.
6. Consider Your Pairings:
   • This coleslaw pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, fried chicken, BBQ dishes, and sandwiches. It also works well as a topping for pulled pork or brisket sliders.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it becomes too watery, simply drain the excess liquid and give it a stir before serving.
2. Make Ahead Tips:
   • If you’re making coleslaw in advance, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing it with the cabbage and carrots about an hour before serving. This helps maintain the crunchiness of the cabbage.
3. Freezing:
   • Coleslaw with a mayonnaise-based dressing doesn’t freeze well, as the texture changes upon thawing. If you need a freezer-friendly option, try using a vinegar-based coleslaw dressing instead.
4. Reinvigorating Leftovers:
   • If the coleslaw has been sitting for a day or two, adding a fresh sprinkle of celery seed, a drizzle of buttermilk, or a dash of vinegar can help refresh the flavors.

Conclusion:

This Classic Creamy Coleslaw recipe is the perfect blend of crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and a rich, tangy dressing that balances sweetness with acidity. Whether served as a cool side dish on a hot day or as a topping for sandwiches and burgers, coleslaw is a versatile addition to any meal. It’s easy to customize, suitable for meal prepping, and keeps well in the fridge for several days. This recipe brings a homemade touch to a classic dish that everyone can enjoy.

From summer picnics to family barbecues, coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to rich and hearty main dishes, making it a staple in any cook’s repertoire. Try this recipe and enjoy the freshness, flavor, and simplicity of a classic coleslaw that you can make over and over again.