Thanksgiving Coleslaw: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

October 23, 2025

By:

Julia marin

When it comes to Thanksgiving gatherings, I truly believe that having a fresh and crunchy side is a must, and that’s where my *thanksgiving coleslaw* shines! Imagine the vibrant colors of green and red cabbage, the bright orange of grated carrots, all coming together in a bowl of crunchy goodness. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors that perfectly complements the rich and hearty dishes on the table.

Let me tell you, I have fond memories of making this coleslaw with my family. My grandma would always whip up a batch, and the moment we tossed the crispy veggies with the creamy dressing, the whole kitchen would fill with this delightful aroma. Wow! It was like the perfect harmony of flavors waiting to happen. And trust me, it always stole the show next to the turkey and stuffing!

This recipe adds a vibrant touch not just to your table but also to your palate. The crunch, the creaminess, and that slight tang from the apple cider vinegar—it’s a party in your mouth! So, whether you’re hosting a big family feast or just bringing a dish to share, this coleslaw is bound to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this festive favorite!

Ingredients

Now, let’s talk about the ingredients that come together to make this fabulous *thanksgiving coleslaw*! It’s super simple, and you probably have most of these in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 cups green cabbage, shredded – This is the base of your coleslaw. Make sure to shred it finely for that perfect crunch!
1 cup red cabbage, shredded – Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also brings a slightly sweeter flavor to the mix.
2 carrots, grated – These add sweetness and a lovely orange hue. Grating them finely helps them blend beautifully with the cabbages.
1 cup mayonnaise – This is what gives our coleslaw that creamy richness. You can use regular or light, depending on your preference!
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – This adds a tangy punch that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess of the mayo.
2 tablespoons sugar – Just a touch to balance the flavors. You can adjust this based on your taste; I sometimes add a bit more if I want it sweeter!
1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all those vibrant flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick to elevate your coleslaw!

With these fresh ingredients, you’re set to create a coleslaw that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning! Let’s get ready to mix it all up!

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Coleslaw

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making this delightful *thanksgiving coleslaw*! It’s such a straightforward process, and the best part? You get to witness all those vibrant colors come to life as you mix everything together. Are you ready? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables

First up, grab a large bowl and toss in the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrots. I can’t stress enough how important this step is! The combination of the crisp green and purple cabbages, along with the bright orange of the carrots, makes for a stunning visual feast. Plus, the textures are just incredible—crunchy, fresh, and oh-so-satisfying! Give it a good mix with your hands or a spoon to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Now, let’s whip up that creamy dressing! In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens! You want to whisk it until it’s nice and smooth—no lumps allowed! The tang from the vinegar paired with the creaminess of the mayo is going to elevate our coleslaw to another level. Trust me, you’ll want to taste it and adjust the flavors if necessary; it should be a perfect balance of creamy and tangy.

Step 3: Mix and Toss

Once your dressing is ready, it’s time to pour it over the cabbage mixture. Don’t be shy! Drizzle it all on top and then, using your hands (or a big spoon if you prefer), toss everything together. This is the fun part! Make sure every little piece of cabbage and carrot gets coated in that luscious dressing. You want to see those vibrant colors shine through! Don’t forget to taste again—maybe a pinch more salt or a dash more vinegar may do the trick!

Step 4: Refrigerate

Finally, cover your coleslaw and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. I know, the waiting can be tough, but trust me on this one! Chilling the coleslaw allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it enhances the crunchiness of the vegetables, making each bite irresistibly fresh. When you’re ready to serve, give it another quick toss, and you’ll see just how vibrant and inviting it looks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare – You can whip this up in just 15 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to focus on the main event!
No cooking required – Just mix and chill—no pots or pans needed, which means less cleanup for you!
Fresh and crunchy texture – The combination of cabbages and carrots adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with hearty Thanksgiving dishes.
Perfectly complements Thanksgiving dishes – This coleslaw is the ideal sidekick to turkey, stuffing, and all your favorite holiday foods!
Vegetarian-friendly – A delicious option for everyone at the table, making sure no one misses out on the festive flavors!

Tips for Success

To make sure your *thanksgiving coleslaw* turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some handy tips that I swear by! These little tricks will elevate your dish and impress your guests!

Adjust the sugar – Everyone’s taste buds are different, so feel free to tweak the sugar levels to suit your preference. I sometimes add a little more when I want that extra sweetness to balance the tang from the vinegar. Just give it a quick taste test!
Add some crunch – For an added layer of texture, consider tossing in some chopped apples or nuts! Crunchy apples bring a delightful sweetness, while nuts like walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.
Freshness is key – Make sure your vegetables are as fresh as they can be! Crisp cabbage and vibrant carrots make all the difference in flavor and texture. If possible, shred and grate them just before mixing for the best results.
Let it rest – Don’t rush the chilling process! Allowing the coleslaw to rest in the fridge not only melds the flavors but also enhances the overall crunch. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Mix gently – When combining the ingredients and dressing, be gentle! You want to keep that crunch intact, so fold everything together instead of stirring aggressively.

With these tips, your *thanksgiving coleslaw* will be a hit at your gathering. Enjoy the process, have fun with it, and let your creativity shine through! Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about my *thanksgiving coleslaw* is how versatile it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or to use up whatever veggies you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Crunchy Veggie Boost – Want to switch things up? Try adding shredded broccoli, bell peppers, or even some thinly sliced Brussels sprouts for extra crunch and flavor! Each of these veggies brings a unique taste that complements the coleslaw beautifully.
Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise – If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap out the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt. It still gives you that creamy texture but with a tangy twist and fewer calories! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein.
Dried Fruit Delight – For a sweet touch, toss in some dried cranberries, raisins, or even chopped dried apricots. They add a lovely sweetness that balances the tangy dressing and makes each bite more exciting!
Herbed Coleslaw – Mix in some fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro to elevate the flavor profile. Fresh herbs bring a brightness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing and crunchy veggies.
Spicy Kick – If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the dressing. It’s a fun way to spice up the classic recipe and add a bit of a kick!
Asian-Inspired Twist – Change up the dressing by using sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a splash of soy sauce. Toss in some chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired coleslaw that adds a unique flair to your Thanksgiving spread.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this *thanksgiving coleslaw* your own! Each variation brings something special to the table, and your guests will love the personal touch. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite combo!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s take a quick look at the nutritional information for my *thanksgiving coleslaw*. While I always say it’s important to enjoy your food without stressing too much about the numbers, it’s nice to have an idea of what you’re serving up, especially during those festive gatherings. Here’s an estimated breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 150
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that this information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. If you make any substitutions or add extra ingredients, just adjust the numbers accordingly. Enjoy this fresh and crunchy goodness without any guilt—after all, it’s all about balance and savoring the flavors of the season!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a delicious batch of *thanksgiving coleslaw*, and now you’re wondering how to store those tasty leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage is key to keeping that crunchiness and freshness intact. Here’s how to make sure your coleslaw stays fabulous:

First off, you’ll want to transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps keep out any air and moisture that could make your coleslaw soggy. Just scoop it in, seal it up tight, and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days, which is perfect for those post-Thanksgiving snacking sessions or if you want to serve it at another gathering!

Now, if you’re thinking about reheating, hold on a sec! I actually recommend serving this coleslaw cold. The beauty of coleslaw is in its crisp texture and refreshing flavors, and reheating it can lead to a mushy mess—yikes! Instead, just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and revive that crunch.

If you do find yourself with a larger batch that you can’t finish right away, you can freeze it, but I would suggest doing this only if absolutely necessary. Just know that the texture may change once thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you go this route, make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should be good for about 1 to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and give it a good stir before serving!

With these storage tips, your *thanksgiving coleslaw* will remain a delightful treat even after the big feast. Enjoy those leftovers, and don’t forget to share the joy with your loved ones!

FAQ Section

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a day in advance. Letting it chill overnight in the fridge allows all those flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when you serve it!

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt. It still gives you that creamy texture but adds a nice tang. You could also try using avocado for a different twist!

How long does *thanksgiving coleslaw* last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your coleslaw will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the softer the veggies may become, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later!

Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your coleslaw. Adding vegetables like shredded broccoli, bell peppers, or even some grated radishes can enhance the crunch and flavor. Just make sure to keep the balance of textures and flavors in mind!