48-Hour Cole Slaw
A crisp, tangy coleslaw with a subtle sweetness, perfect for pairing with fish or chicken. The 48-hour refrigeration allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a refreshing side dish that complements grilled or fried proteins. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or everyday meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the cabbage and carrots and mix them together in a large bowl.
- Stir in the vinegar, sugar, and mayonnaise until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 48 hours, stirring every 12 hours if possible before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of celery seed or a bit of chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley. If you're looking for a healthier version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. Additionally, using red cabbage can give the slaw a vibrant color and a slightly different taste. This recipe can also serve as a great marinade for venison or an accompaniment to grilled dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This coleslaw is perfect as a side dish for barbecued meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Denise's Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, and consider adding it to a taco for an extra crunch. You can also serve it atop a burger for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The slaw will continue to develop its flavor as it sits, making it even tastier after a day or two. It’s best eaten within a week. Avoid reheating coleslaw, as it is traditionally served cold for maximum crunch and freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 48-Hour Cole Slaw contains roughly 271 calories, with 6g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (188% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cole slaw vegan?
Absolutely! To make this cole slaw vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or a creamy avocado dressing. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this classic dish.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the slaw?
If you prefer a less sweet slaw, you can reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup or even omit it entirely. Alternatively, you could replace the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup, adjusting to taste. Keep in mind that the balance of flavors is key, so taste as you go for the best results.
Can I add other vegetables to the slaw?
Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like shredded broccoli, radishes, or even diced bell peppers for a colorful twist. Just be sure to keep the ratios balanced so that the dressing coats everything evenly. This versatility allows you to customize the slaw to your taste preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).