Easy Creamy Coleslaw

Here’s a refreshing take on Easy Creamy Coleslaw that will elevate your meals. This coleslaw is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish for family dinners. Its creamy dressing blends beautifully with the crunch of fresh cabbage and carrots, making it a delightful addition to any table. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your taste preferences!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious coleslaw in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and tangy vinegar adds a robust flavor without being overly sweet.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cabbage, carrots, and parsley ensures a crisp texture and vibrant color.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness easily by adding sugar or honey to suit your palate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Easy Creamy Coleslaw, gather the necessary tools. Having everything at hand will streamline the process and make cooking enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Grater or food processor (for shredding carrots)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients without mess.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting cabbage efficiently safe and easy.
• Grater or food processor: Speeds up the process of shredding carrots, saving you time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make my favorite Easy Creamy Coleslaw:

For the Slaw

• 1 medium cabbage, about 2 pounds, outer leaves removed
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and shredded
• 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh parsley leaves, coarsely chopped

For the Dressing

• 1 cup (225g) mayonnaise, see homemade mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or coarse ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar or honey, optional, add for a sweeter coleslaw

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Creamy Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Quarter the cabbage through the core and cut out the core. Then cut each quarter crosswise in half and finely shred. Place all shredded cabbage in a very large bowl (you will have 6 to 8 cups).

Step 2: Combine Veggies

Add the shredded carrot and chopped parsley to the bowl with cabbage. Toss gently to mix everything evenly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Taste for acidity and seasoning; adjust if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, stir in optional sugar or honey.

Step 4: Assemble the Coleslaw

Pour two-thirds of the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Mix well using clean hands or tongs for even distribution. If it appears dry, add more dressing until desired creaminess is achieved.

Step 5: Serve or Store

You can serve immediately for crunchier texture or let it sit in the refrigerator for about an hour. This resting time allows flavors to meld while softening the cabbage slightly. Homemade coleslaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; after that, it may lose its crunchiness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this Easy Creamy Coleslaw at your next meal!

How to Serve Easy Creamy Coleslaw

Easy Creamy Coleslaw is a versatile dish that complements a variety of meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

As a Sandwich Topping

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Add a generous scoop of coleslaw on top of your pulled pork for added crunch and flavor.
• Fish Tacos: Use coleslaw as a refreshing topping for fish tacos, balancing the flavors perfectly.

With Grilled Meats

• BBQ Chicken: Serve coleslaw alongside grilled BBQ chicken for a classic summer meal.
• Steak: Pair with grilled steak for a hearty meal that combines rich flavors with the creaminess of coleslaw.

On a Picnic Plate

• Burgers: Include coleslaw in your picnic spread next to juicy burgers for a satisfying crunch.
• Hot Dogs: Top hot dogs with coleslaw for an unexpected twist that adds texture and taste.

How to Perfect Easy Creamy Coleslaw

Creating the perfect Easy Creamy Coleslaw is all about balance and freshness. Here are some tips to ensure your coleslaw always stands out.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality mayonnaise and fresh ingredients to enhance the flavors of your dressing.
• Texture Matters: Shred the cabbage and carrots finely to create a uniform texture that combines well.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning while preparing the dressing to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the coleslaw to sit in the refrigerator for an hour enhances its flavor as the ingredients meld together.
• Add Crunch: Consider including nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds for an extra layer of crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Creamy Coleslaw

When planning your meal, pairing side dishes with Easy Creamy Coleslaw can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that work wonderfully together.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs perfectly with creamy coleslaw and adds delicious summer vibes.
2. Baked Beans: The sweetness and smokiness of baked beans complement the tangy flavors of coleslaw beautifully.
3. Potato Salad: A classic side that brings another creamy element to your plate, enhancing variety and texture.
4. Cola-Glazed Carrots: These sweet and savory carrots provide a unique twist, balancing out the crunch of coleslaw.
5. Macaroni Salad: A creamy mac salad works well alongside coleslaw, adding comfort food appeal to any gathering.
6. Grilled Veggies: Charred veggies bring smoky flavors that contrast nicely with the coolness of coleslaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Creamy Coleslaw, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Using too much dressing: Adding excessive dressing can make your coleslaw soggy. Start with two-thirds of the dressing and add more as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Not shredding the cabbage finely enough: Large pieces of cabbage can lead to an uneven texture. Make sure to finely shred the cabbage for a more cohesive mix.
• Skipping the chilling time: Eating coleslaw immediately is tempting, but letting it sit for about an hour allows flavors to meld. This enhances taste and softens the cabbage slightly.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your dressing before adding it to the veggies. The level of acidity may vary depending on your vinegar, so adjust salt and sugar accordingly for optimal flavor.
• Using pre-shredded vegetables: While convenient, pre-shredded veggies often lose freshness and crunch. For the best flavor, shred your own cabbage and carrots.
• Storing improperly: Coleslaw should be stored in an airtight container. Leaving it exposed can lead to wilting and loss of crispness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Homemade Easy Creamy Coleslaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Temperature: Ensure your fridge is set below 40°F (4°C) for optimal preservation.

Freezing Easy Creamy Coleslaw

• Duration: It’s not recommended to freeze coleslaw, as it can lose its crispness upon thawing.
• Containers: If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container or bag, but remember that texture may be compromised.
• Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Easy Creamy Coleslaw

• Oven: Avoid reheating coleslaw in the oven; it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: This method is not recommended as heat will wilt the vegetables and change their texture.
• Stovetop: Similar to the microwave, stovetop heating is not ideal since coleslaw is meant to be enjoyed cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Easy Creamy Coleslaw?

You can easily customize this coleslaw by adding ingredients like diced apples or raisins for sweetness, or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

What makes this coleslaw creamy?

The creaminess comes from mayonnaise mixed with vinegar and mustard, creating a rich dressing that coats the vegetables perfectly.

How do I make a vegan version of Easy Creamy Coleslaw?

To create a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative such as cashew cream or avocado puree.

Can I use different types of cabbage?

Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional, you can try red cabbage or Napa cabbage for different flavors and colors in your Easy Creamy Coleslaw.

How long does homemade coleslaw last?

Homemade Easy Creamy Coleslaw lasts up to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Easy Creamy Coleslaw is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it as a side dish at barbecues or picnics or customize it with various toppings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and explore different variations that suit your preferences!

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Easy Creamy Coleslaw

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Easy Creamy Coleslaw is a delightful and versatile side dish that adds a refreshing crunch to any meal. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, this coleslaw features a creamy dressing that beautifully complements the fresh flavors of crisp cabbage and carrots. With a preparation time of just 25 minutes, you can easily whip up this dish to serve alongside grilled meats, burgers, or as a topping for sandwiches. Customizable to your taste preferences, you can adjust the sweetness by adding sugar or honey, making it an enjoyable addition for everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 medium cabbage (about 2 pounds)
• 3 medium carrots
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• Celery seeds, salt, and pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage by quartering it and removing the core. Finely shred the quarters into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add shredded carrots and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Pour two-thirds of the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined. Add more dressing if necessary.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: -
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg