Classic coleslaw has a special place in my heart, and I think it’s because of the memories I associate with it. I can almost hear the laughter and chatter from family gatherings, where this crunchy salad made its grand entrance on the table. The vibrant green cabbage mixed with those bright orange grated carrots creates a feast for the eyes, but it’s that tangy flavor that truly steals the show! I love the way the creamy dressing clings to every shred, making each bite a perfect balance of crunch and zest. Whether it’s served alongside barbecued ribs or just as a refreshing side on a hot summer day, classic coleslaw is always a hit. Trust me, once you whip this up, you’ll be hooked on its delightful crunch and flavor!
Ingredients for Classic Coleslaw
- 1 medium green cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Classic Coleslaw
Making classic coleslaw is as easy as pie and oh-so-rewarding! You’ll love how simple it is to whip together this crunchy salad. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, grab a large bowl and combine your shredded cabbage and grated carrots. It’s like a colorful party in there!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard. This creamy dressing is what brings everything together, so make sure it’s well blended.
- Now, pour that luscious dressing over your cabbage and carrots. You want to coat all those veggies, so get in there and toss well! I like to use tongs for this—it makes it easier.
- Once everything is mixed, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy, taste as you go!
- For the best flavor, cover your coleslaw and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together, making every bite irresistible.
And voilà! You’re just moments away from enjoying a bowl of classic coleslaw that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can have this classic coleslaw ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
- Fresh Ingredients: The crunchy cabbage and vibrant carrots bring freshness that’s hard to beat. You’ll feel good about serving this salad.
- Customizable Sweetness: You can easily adjust the sugar to your taste, making it as sweet or tangy as you like!
- Versatile Side Dish: It pairs wonderfully with so many meals, from grilled meats to sandwiches, making it a staple at any gathering.
Tips for Success with Classic Coleslaw
When it comes to making classic coleslaw, a few little tips can take your salad from good to absolutely fantastic! First, feel free to adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the dressing. If you prefer a bit more zing, add a splash more apple cider vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance it out. Don’t forget to taste as you go—it’s the best way to ensure you’ve hit that perfect flavor!
Also, if you can, make your coleslaw a day in advance. The flavors deepen and meld together overnight, creating a more delicious salad. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving. Finally, add some chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh twist if you’re feeling adventurous! These little touches can elevate your classic coleslaw and impress your family and friends.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for classic coleslaw per serving (about 1 cup). Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
It’s a delightful blend of crunchy veggies and creamy dressing, making it a satisfying side dish that you can feel good about enjoying!
FAQ Section
Can I make classic coleslaw in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making classic coleslaw a day ahead of time. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving, and you’ll be all set!
What can I add to classic coleslaw?
If you want to get a little creative, there are plenty of tasty additions you can make to classic coleslaw! Chopped green onions or fresh parsley add a delightful pop of color and flavor. You could also experiment with shredded apples or raisins for a touch of sweetness, or even some diced jalapeños if you’re in the mood for a kick!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Just transfer any remaining coleslaw into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 days, but keep in mind that the cabbage may soften a bit over time. Just give it a good stir before enjoying it again!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your classic coleslaw is super simple! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, though I recommend enjoying it sooner for the best crunch. If you notice the cabbage has softened a bit, don’t worry—just give it a good stir before serving. Now, coleslaw is best served cold and fresh, so I wouldn’t recommend reheating it. Trust me, it’s perfect right out of the fridge, ready to complement your next meal!
Serving Suggestions
Classic coleslaw is such a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with so many meals! It’s the perfect companion to grilled meats like barbecue chicken or ribs, adding a refreshing crunch to balance the smoky flavors. I also love serving it alongside pulled pork sandwiches—there’s just something about that tangy coleslaw that complements the savory meat so well. And let’s not forget about picnics! It makes a fantastic side for burgers or hot dogs, bringing a burst of freshness to your summer spread. Trust me, once you try it with these dishes, you’ll always want coleslaw at your table!
For more delicious recipes, check out this coleslaw recipe for a twist on the classic, or explore creative uses for leftover cabbage!
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Classic coleslaw: 5 Reasons You’ll Crave This Crunchy Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic coleslaw is a crunchy and tangy salad made from finely shredded raw cabbage and dressed most commonly with a vinaigrette or mayonnaise.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots.
- Toss well to coat all the vegetables.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing according to your preference.
- For added flavor, include chopped green onions or parsley.
- Coleslaw can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: coleslaw, classic coleslaw, salad, side dish
