Save Few side dishes capture the essence of a summer gathering quite like a bowl of Coleslaw With Creamy Dressing. This American classic brings together the refreshing crunch of cabbage and carrots with a rich, tangy sauce that balances every bite. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or packing a picnic for the park, this easy-to-make side dish provides the perfect cool contrast to savory grilled mains.
Save The secret to a truly great coleslaw lies in the harmony between the crisp vegetables and the luscious dressing. By combining both green and red cabbage, you not only get a variety of textures but also a vibrant, colorful presentation that brightens up any plate. This recipe is designed to be effortless, requiring no cooking time and minimal cleanup with basic kitchen tools.
Ingredients
- 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about ½ medium head)
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or grated (about 2 medium carrots)
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced (optional)
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and red onion (if using).
- Step 2
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 3
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Toss thoroughly to combine and ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Step 4
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Step 5
- Toss again before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, make sure to shred your cabbage finely. Allowing the coleslaw to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes is a critical step; it lets the salt and vinegar slightly soften the vegetables while the celery seed infuses the creamy dressing with its characteristic flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version of the dressing, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. If you prefer a sweeter profile, feel free to increase the sugar to 1 tablespoon. Adding sliced green onions or chopped fresh herbs can also provide an extra layer of flavor and freshness to the dish.
Serviervorschläge
This coleslaw is best served cold and can be prepared up to one day in advance. It serves as an excellent topping for pulled pork sandwiches or a refreshing side for fried chicken and grilled fish. Always give it one final toss just before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Save With its classic flavor profile and satisfying crunch, this Coleslaw With Creamy Dressing is a dependable recipe that never goes out of style. It is a simple yet essential addition to your culinary repertoire, proving that the most traditional recipes are often the most beloved.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this coleslaw up to one day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and toss again before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → How can I make this coleslaw lighter?
Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream to reduce calories and fat while maintaining a creamy texture. You can also use a light or reduced-fat mayonnaise.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding sliced green onions, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or a splash of extra vinegar or lemon juice for more tang. For sweetness, increase the sugar to 1 tablespoon.
- → Is this coleslaw gluten-free?
Yes, this coleslaw is naturally gluten-free. However, always check your mayonnaise and mustard labels to ensure they don't contain gluten-containing additives.
- → How long does coleslaw stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this coleslaw will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The vegetables may release some water over time, so drain excess liquid before serving.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use vegan mayonnaise and a dairy-free sour cream alternative or additional vegan mayo to keep the same creamy consistency while making it completely dairy-free.