The Best Homemade Cole Slaw Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade cole slaw is a fresh, crunchy side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a quick snack. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Crisp and creamy – The cabbage stays crunchy, while the dressing adds just the right amount of tangy creaminess.
- Quick to prepare – Just chop, mix, and chill—no cooking required, so it’s ready in minutes.
- Versatile and crowd-pleasing – Great on its own, piled on sandwiches, or paired with grilled favorites.
Recipe
Cole slaw is a classic side dish that’s invigorating, crunchy, and perfect for pairing with barbecues, sandwiches, or fried dishes. This homemade version is simple to prepare and delivers a perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess.
Ingredients:
1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
1 large carrot, grated
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrot.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.
- Toss thoroughly to guarantee all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes:
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. Adjust the sugar and vinegar to taste for your preferred level of sweetness and tanginess.
Equipment:
Large mixing bowl
Small mixing bowl
Whisk
Sharp knife or food processor for shredding
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6-8 as a side dish.
Nutrition
Cole slaw is a healthy, low-calorie side dish packed with nutrients. Here’s the nutrition breakdown per serving:
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110 | 8g | 9g | 1g | 2g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade coleslaw with grilled meats, like juicy burgers or smoky ribs, because the crisp, tangy slaw cuts through the richness perfectly. It’s also fantastic alongside potato side dishes, whether it’s creamy mashed potatoes or crispy fries, for a balanced bite. Trust me, these combos make any meal feel like a backyard barbecue, even if you’re just at the kitchen table.
Grilled Meats
Pairing grilled meats with the right sides can turn a simple meal into something truly special. I love how the smoky flavors of grilled chicken, ribs, or brisket shine when balanced with fresh, crisp coleslaw. It’s one of my go-to barbecue pairings because the cool, tangy slaw cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a perfect harmony of tastes. Whether it’s a backyard cookout or a weeknight dinner, this combo feels like a celebration. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why this classic pairing never goes out of style. It’s all about balance and flavor!
Potato Side Dishes
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and versatile, you can’t go wrong with potatoes. I love pairing my homemade coleslaw with creamy mashed potatoes—they’re soft, buttery, and perfect for balancing the slaw’s crunch. For something heartier, I’ll toss some diced potatoes in olive oil, season them with salt, pepper, and herbs, then roast them until crispy. Roasted potatoes add a satisfying texture contrast that makes every bite exciting. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a summer barbecue, these potato sides always steal the show. Trust me, your plate won’t feel complete without them!
