Creamy Coleslaw – The Perfect Side Dish for Every Meal

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a good creamy coleslaw recipe? Whether you’re preparing for a summer BBQ, looking for a fresh side dish for your family dinner, or simply craving a delicious and creamy treat, this creamy coleslaw recipe is the answer. In this post, we’ll guide you through making this classic dish, offer tips for customization, and explain why this coleslaw is a must-have in your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy coleslaw is:

Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep work.
Delicious: The perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet.
Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients that you might already have at home.

Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Coleslaw

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
2 large carrots, grated
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
Salt and pepper to taste

How Kids Can Help with This Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

Cooking with kids can be a fun and educational experience. Here are some ways your little ones can help:

Shredding and Grating: Kids can help shred the cabbage and grate the carrots (with supervision).
Mixing: Let them whisk together the dressing ingredients.
Tossing: Kids will enjoy combining the vegetables with the dressing.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to stir it well before serving again to redistribute the dressing.

Substitutions and Additions

Feel free to get creative with your coleslaw! Here are some ideas:

Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Add shredded red cabbage or radishes for extra color and crunch.
Incorporate diced apples or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time? A: Yes, coleslaw actually tastes better when it sits for a while, so feel free to make it a day in advance.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots? A: Absolutely! Using pre-shredded vegetables can save you time and make the process even easier.

Q: How can I make this coleslaw vegan? A: Simply substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative.

Nutritional Value

This creamy coleslaw is not only tasty but also provides some nutritional benefits:

Cabbage is a great source of vitamins C and K.
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and fiber.
Mayonnaise adds healthy fats when used in moderation.

Shortcuts or Alternative Versions

Quick Version: Use pre-shredded coleslaw mix from the store.
Lighter Version: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter option.
Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapenos for a kick.

History and Cultural Aspects of Coleslaw

Coleslaw has a rich history that dates back to ancient Rome, where cabbage was often combined with vinegar and eggs. The term “coleslaw” comes from the Dutch word “koolsla,” meaning “cabbage salad.” Over time, this dish has evolved and adapted to various cuisines around the world, becoming a beloved staple in many cultures.

Busting Myths About Coleslaw

Myth: Coleslaw is always unhealthy because of the mayonnaise. Fact: While mayonnaise is high in fat, you can control the amount used or opt for lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt. Additionally, the vegetables in coleslaw are packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meal in moderation.

Experimenting with Ingredients

Kids love to experiment, and coleslaw is a great dish for creativity. Encourage them to:

Add their favorite veggies: Such as bell peppers, onions, or radishes.
Mix in fruits: Like apples, raisins, or pineapple chunks.
Try different dressings: Such as ranch, blue cheese, or a vinaigrette.

Foods That Pair Well with Creamy Coleslaw

BBQ ribs or chicken
Pulled pork sandwiches
Burgers and hot dogs
Grilled fish
Fried chicken

Conclusion

Creamy coleslaw is a versatile and delicious side dish that’s easy to make and loved by many. With its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a BBQ, or a picnic, this coleslaw recipe will not disappoint. Try it out, experiment with different ingredients, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of homemade creamy coleslaw!

Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

Creamy coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals, from BBQ to sandwiches. This easy-to-make coleslaw is creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

5 from 1 vote

Total Time: 15

Servings:

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Equipment

Equipment and Ingredient sections may contain affiliate links to items we use and love.

Ingredients

▢ 1 This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
▢ 2 This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Carrot, grated
▢ 1 cup This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Mayonnaise
▢ 1/4 cup This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.white vinegar
▢ 2 tablespoons This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Sugar
▢ 1 tablespoon This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Dijon Mustard
▢ 1/2 teaspoon This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.celery seed
▢ This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Salt and Pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:

Shred the cabbage and grate the carrots. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Combine Ingredients:

Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Toss until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

Chill:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve:

Give the coleslaw a final toss before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

For a tangier flavor, increase the amount of vinegar slightly.
If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add a bit more sugar to taste.
This coleslaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

Serving Size

1 g

Amount per Serving

Calories

120

% Daily Value*

Fat

Saturated Fat

1.5

Cholesterol

Sodium

180

Carbohydrates

Fiber

Sugar

Protein

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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