There’s something truly satisfying about crunching into a bowl of fresh coleslaw on a sunny day. When that vibrant mix of green and red cabbage, paired with sweet, grated carrots meets a creamy dressing, it’s like a celebration of flavors in every bite. I stumbled upon this Easy Homemade Coleslaw recipe while trying to jazz up my usual potluck contributions, and let me tell you, it quickly became a go-to.
Ready in just 10 minutes, this classic slaw not only brings a burst of color to your table but also offers the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to elevate a weeknight dinner, this dish is incredibly versatile and sure to delight everyone. Say goodbye to boring fast food sides and let’s whip up something that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Why will you love this Easy Homemade Coleslaw?
Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes, making it the ideal last-minute addition to any meal!
Vibrant Colors: The striking contrast of green and red cabbage adds a fresh look that’ll impress your guests.
Perfect Balance: With a creamy dressing that blends sweetness and tang, it’s a taste sensation you won’t forget.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at parties or family dinners, this coleslaw appeals to all ages—no one can resist!
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to make it your own, like crunchy nuts or sweet apples!
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this coleslaw won’t break the bank, offering great value for all its flavorful charm!
Easy Homemade Coleslaw Ingredients
• Create a vibrant, crunchy delight with these simple components!
For the Slaw
- Green Cabbage – Provides the essential crunch and structure; finely shred for the best texture.
- Red Cabbage – Introduces vibrant color and sweetness; can be substituted with more green cabbage if needed.
- Large Carrot – Adds natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color; grate or julienne for easy mixing.
- Chopped Green Onion – Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor; substitute with chives for a different twist.
For the Creamy Dressing
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base that holds everything together; swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Honey – Delivers a touch of natural sweetness; granulated sugar can be used for convenience.
- Fine Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of seasoning; freshly ground delivers maximum flavor impact.
- Lemon Juice – Provides a tangy kick to the dressing; feel free to use apple cider vinegar as a substitute.
How to Make Easy Homemade Coleslaw
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Prepare Vegetables: Finely shred the green and red cabbage, then grate or julienne the large carrot. Don’t rush this step; getting the textures right is key to a delightful crunch!
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Mix Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until it’s creamy and everything is well blended, creating a smooth dressing.
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Combine: Drizzle the creamy dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss gently until the coleslaw is evenly coated, adjusting seasoning to taste—every bite should be bursting with flavor!
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Serve or Store: Serve immediately for the best crunchy texture, or refrigerate and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to dig in if making it ahead of time.
Optional: Add some chopped apples or nuts for an extra burst of flavor and texture!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Homemade Coleslaw
Fridge: Store uncombined coleslaw and dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Mixed Coleslaw: Once combined, consume your easy homemade coleslaw within 1 day for the best texture and flavor, as the cabbage may become soggy over time.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze coleslaw, as freezing alters the texture of the vegetables and dressing, leading to a less enjoyable outcome when thawed.
Reheating: If you prepare coleslaw with added ingredients like nuts, simply mix in fresh vegetables upon serving to keep it crunchy, as reheating is not necessary.
What to Serve with Easy Homemade Coleslaw?
To create a delightful and satisfying meal, consider these perfect pairings for your freshly made coleslaw.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy and smoky, the flavors of grilled chicken complement the crunchy freshness of coleslaw beautifully. A light marinade can enhance this classic combination.
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Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing bite to the rich, savory pulled pork, making each mouthful a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
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Hot Dogs: Nothing says summer like a backyard barbecue with hot dogs, made even better with a scoop of zesty coleslaw piled on top for a crunchy contrast.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn brings the essence of summer, and when paired with coleslaw, the duo becomes a perfect picnic companion that celebrates seasonal produce.
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Potato Salad: The creaminess of potato salad melds nicely with the crunch of coleslaw, bringing together two beloved sides that will make any family gathering more memorable.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refresh your palate with a glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea, perfectly offsetting the richness of your meal and enhancing the light vibe of your picnic spread.
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Fruit Salad: A bowl of fresh fruit can balance your meal with its natural sweetness, creating a colorful and refreshing addition that complements the crunchiness of coleslaw.
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Chips and Salsa: For a casual gathering, serving crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa alongside coleslaw adds an exciting textural element to your spread.
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Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich piece of chocolate cake. The indulgence ties up your gathering nicely, offering a delightful contrast to your savory sides.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Homemade Coleslaw preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can finely shred the green and red cabbage and grate or julienne the carrot up to 24 hours in advance—just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. For best quality, keep the creamy dressing separate until you’re ready to serve; it can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in a jar in the fridge. When it’s time to enjoy your coleslaw, simply combine the dressed veggies and toss them gently for that vibrant crunch, ensuring every bite remains just as delicious!
Easy Homemade Coleslaw Variations
You can easily customize this delicious slaw to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Vegan: Replace mayonnaise with silken tofu blended until smooth for a creamy, plant-based option. This swap doesn’t sacrifice creaminess while keeping it wholesome.
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Spicy Kick: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a fiery twist that adds exciting heat to each bite. It’s a fantastic way to wake up your palate!
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate diced apples or dried cranberries for a sweet pop that beautifully contrasts the tangy dressing. Adding fruit gives it a refreshing taste perfect for summer gatherings.
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Crunchy Surprise: Toss in toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and a delightful richness that pairs wonderfully with the slaw’s creamy texture.
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Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise for a dairy-free yogurt alternative to keep that creamy consistency while making it suitable for dairy-sensitive eaters.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro into the mix for a fresh, aromatic layer of flavor that adds a garden-fresh touch to your coleslaw.
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Tangy Alternative: Swap lemon juice with apple cider vinegar for a sharper bite that brings a different flavor profile, enhancing the overall tanginess of the slaw.
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Coleslaw Remix: Try using different types of cabbage, like Napa or Savoy, or mix in shredded Brussels sprouts for a vibrant texture twist that fuels your creativity!
Expert Tips for Easy Homemade Coleslaw
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Fresh Ingredients: Use crisp, fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Don’t settle for wilted cabbage, as it can lead to a soggy coleslaw!
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Adjusting Sweetness: Taste your dressing before coating the vegetables. If it’s too tangy, add a bit more honey to achieve the perfect balance in your easy homemade coleslaw.
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Mixing Techniques: When combining the slaw and dressing, use gentle motions to prevent the cabbage from bruising, ensuring a satisfying crunch in every bite.
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Resting Time: Allow your coleslaw to rest for about 10-15 minutes after mixing. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience!
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Creative Add-ins: Feel free to experiment by adding shredded apples, raisins, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick! This will personalize your easy homemade coleslaw and keep things exciting.
Easy Homemade Coleslaw Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cabbage for coleslaw?
Absolutely! Look for crisp heads of green and red cabbage that feel heavy for their size. The leaves should be tightly packed, free from dark spots or wilting, ensuring you have the freshest ingredients for your Easy Homemade Coleslaw.
What is the best way to store leftover coleslaw?
You’ll want to store your uncombined coleslaw and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This method keeps the coleslaw fresh for up to 3 days. If you’ve already mixed everything together, it’s best to consume it within 1 day to enjoy that satisfying crunch!
Can I freeze coleslaw?
It’s not recommended to freeze coleslaw, as the freezing process alters the texture of the vegetables and can make them mushy once thawed. If you aim to prepare in advance, store the dressing separately and mix it with fresh cabbage and carrots just before serving for a delightful crunch!
What should I do if my coleslaw dressing turns out too tangy?
Very often, the balance can be adjusted! If your dressing is too tangy, simply mix in a little more honey or sugar until you’ve achieved the sweetness that works for your palate. Tasting as you go is key to perfecting your Easy Homemade Coleslaw!
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, with a few modifications! For a gluten-free version, the ingredients used are already gluten-free, but always double-check the labels on your mayonnaise or any add-ins. Adjust seasonings to accommodate for any other dietary restrictions, making it inclusive for your guests.
Can I add more ingredients to my coleslaw?
Absolutely! Feel free to explore by adding ingredients like shredded apples, raisins, or nuts for added texture and sweetness. These additions will give your Easy Homemade Coleslaw a personal touch and make it even more exciting at your next gathering!
Easy Homemade Coleslaw: Crunchy, Creamy, and Perfect for BBQs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely shred the green and red cabbage, then grate or julienne the large carrot. Getting the textures right is key to a delightful crunch!
- In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy and well blended.
- Drizzle the creamy dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss gently until evenly coated, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate and keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.