Coleslaw is a classic side dish that perfectly complements a wide range of main courses, from barbecue and fried chicken to sandwiches and burgers. This creamy homemade coleslaw recipe is a favorite for its balance of crunchy vegetables and tangy, creamy dressing. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, and family dinners. Whether you prefer your coleslaw a little on the sweet side or more tangy, this versatile recipe can be adjusted to suit your taste. Let’s dive into making this delicious and refreshing side dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Creamy Homemade Coleslaw:
- For the coleslaw:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- For the dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey (or granulated sugar)
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (optional, for extra creaminess)
How to Make Creamy Homemade Coleslaw:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by preparing the vegetables. Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor. You should have about 8 cups of shredded cabbage. Peel and grate the carrot, thinly slice the red onion, and if using, thinly slice the red bell pepper. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl. If you like a bit of color and freshness in your coleslaw, add chopped fresh parsley to the mix.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or sugar), celery seed, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If you prefer your coleslaw extra creamy, add the buttermilk and whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add a bit more vinegar for extra tang or more honey for sweetness, depending on your preference.
- Combine the Coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables. Use a pair of tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Make sure the dressing is well distributed for the best flavor.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly. However, coleslaw can be enjoyed immediately if you’re short on time. Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Cabbage: The base of any good coleslaw is fresh cabbage. Green cabbage is most commonly used due to its mild flavor and crisp texture. It provides a crunchy foundation that holds up well to the creamy dressing. Shredding the cabbage finely ensures a more delicate texture and allows the dressing to coat each piece evenly. If you want to add a bit of color, you can mix in some red cabbage as well.
- Carrots: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and a vibrant orange color to the coleslaw. Grated carrots blend seamlessly with the shredded cabbage and contribute to the overall crunchiness. They also add a nutritional boost, providing vitamins and antioxidants.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a subtle bite and a touch of color. The sharpness of the onion balances the creamy dressing and enhances the overall flavor of the coleslaw. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the sliced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the coleslaw.
- Red Bell Pepper: While optional, red bell pepper adds a sweet, crisp element to the coleslaw. Its bright color also makes the dish more visually appealing. You can substitute with green or yellow bell pepper if you prefer.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley is another optional ingredient that adds a burst of color and freshness. It complements the flavors of the vegetables and dressing without overpowering them.
- Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is the base of the creamy dressing. It binds the ingredients together and gives the coleslaw its rich, smooth texture. Use a good-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds the necessary acidity to the dressing, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise and enhancing the overall flavor. It also provides a slight tang that is characteristic of classic coleslaw.
- Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess and depth of flavor to the dressing. It also helps emulsify the dressing, ensuring it’s smooth and well combined.
- Honey: A small amount of honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy and savory elements of the dressing. If you prefer, you can use granulated sugar instead. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
- Celery Seed: Celery seed is a traditional spice in coleslaw dressing. It adds a distinctive, slightly bitter flavor that complements the sweetness of the cabbage and carrots. It also adds a bit of texture and visual interest.
- Buttermilk: Although optional, buttermilk can be added to the dressing for extra creaminess and a subtle tang. It helps to thin the dressing slightly, making it easier to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor of the coleslaw. Salt helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of spiciness.
This creamy homemade coleslaw recipe is a delicious and versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Its crisp, refreshing texture and tangy, creamy flavor make it a favorite at barbecues, picnics, and family dinners. Enjoy this classic coleslaw with your favorite meals and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
