Creamy Coleslaw | Classic Homemade Slaw Recipe
1. Introduction
Few side dishes are as universally loved as coleslaw. Whether you’re at a backyard cookout, a picnic, or enjoying a plate of fried chicken, coleslaw adds the perfect crunch and creamy tang that balances heavier dishes beautifully.
This classic coleslaw recipe is everything you want it to be — refreshing, creamy, and full of flavor. The crisp cabbage and carrots are tossed in a homemade dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of mustard, creating that perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
You’ll also learn how to customize this recipe for a lighter version, make-ahead meal prep, and even dairy-free options — all while keeping that signature crunch everyone loves.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
For the Slaw
- Green Cabbage (4 cups, finely shredded) – The base of the salad; crunchy and mild.
- Red Cabbage (2 cups, shredded) – Adds color and a slightly peppery note.
- Carrots (1 cup, shredded) – Brings sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- Green Onions (optional, sliced) – Adds mild sharpness for more depth.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise (¾ cup) – The creamy foundation of the dressing. Use full-fat for best flavor.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp) – Gives the dressing a bright, tangy kick.
- Granulated Sugar (1 tbsp) – Balances out the acidity.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) – Adds a subtle savory heat.
- Celery Seed (½ tsp, optional) – A traditional coleslaw spice for extra flavor.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Enhances and balances the overall flavor.
Substitutions
- Light mayo or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat version.
- Honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for natural sweetness.
- Vegan mayo to make it dairy- and egg-free.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Finely shred the green and red cabbage using a knife, mandoline, or food processor. Grate the carrots and add all to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss thoroughly with tongs or a spoon until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to slightly soften without losing crunch.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Give it a quick toss before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — a little extra vinegar or pepper can brighten it up beautifully.
4. Tips and Variations
- Make it lighter: Use half mayo and half Greek yogurt.
- Add a crunch: Stir in sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or raisins.
- Make it tangier: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Try a vinegar-based slaw: Skip mayo and increase the vinegar for a Carolina-style version.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeño for heat.
5. Serving Suggestions
- BBQs and Picnics: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers.
- Sandwiches: Great inside pulled pork sandwiches or on top of fish tacos.
- Fried Foods: The tangy crunch pairs beautifully with fried chicken or fish.
- Buffet or Potluck: Holds up well on a table without wilting quickly.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing: The mayo-based dressing doesn’t freeze well and can separate.
- Re-mix before serving: The dressing tends to settle, so give it a stir before eating.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can be made 1 day ahead — in fact, it tastes even better after resting overnight.
- For extra crunch, add dressing just before serving.
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline for thin, even shreds.
- A mix of red and green cabbage gives both color and balance.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 2 cups red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp celery seed (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Shred cabbage and carrots; place in a large bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, sugar, mustard, and seasonings.
- Pour dressing over vegetables and toss to combine.
- Chill 30 minutes before serving.
- Stir and adjust seasoning before serving cold.
🏷️ Diet Tags:
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian
- Dairy-Free (if using vegan mayo)
- Low-Carb
🌿 Health Benefits:
- High in fiber for digestive health.
- Rich in vitamin C from cabbage and carrots.
- Supports gut health with natural plant compounds.
- Low in calories yet filling and satisfying.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better when made a few hours in advance. Just keep it chilled until ready to serve.
2. Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Absolutely. It’s a time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe.
3. How do I make coleslaw less watery?
Lightly salt the cabbage and let it sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess liquid before mixing.
4. What’s the best vinegar for coleslaw?
Apple cider vinegar gives a classic tang, but white or rice vinegar also work well.
5. Can I make it vegan?
Yes, simply use vegan mayonnaise or a cashew-based dressing.
11. Final Thoughts
A well-made coleslaw brings more than just crunch — it adds freshness and balance to every meal. Whether you’re piling it onto a BBQ sandwich, serving it next to grilled meat, or enjoying it on its own, this creamy slaw is always a hit.
It’s simple, quick, and endlessly customizable — everything a great homemade side dish should be. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to store-bought again.