Best Coleslaw

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A crisp, tangy coleslaw with finely grated cabbage and creamy dressing, perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or casual gatherings, offering refreshing flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. head cabbage, grated very fine
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. fresh ground pepper
  • 1 c. mayonnaise
  • 1 c. sour cream

Instructions

  1. Shake or toss the grated cabbage with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add mayonnaise and sour cream, then mix until well combined.
  3. Cover and let stand for 2 hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the lemon juice. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version instead of sour cream. If you prefer a crunchier coleslaw, add grated carrots or chopped apples. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, and adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw is a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or picnics, pairing beautifully with Chicken, Pasta And Vegetables. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches. It also complements heartier dishes like BBQ ribs or pulled pork, adding a refreshing crunch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The coleslaw may become watery as it sits, so give it a good stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture will suffer upon thawing. Serve cold for the best experience.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Best Coleslaw contains roughly 600 calories, with 8g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2357mg per serving (102% of the Daily Value).

600 kcal 30% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.8g 16% DV
Total Fat 46.9g 60% DV
Carbs 40.4g 15% DV
Fiber 1.9g 7% DV
Sugar 1.1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2357.4mg 100% DV
Potassium 402.4mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 20.4mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 167.6mcg 19% DV
Calcium 322.1mg 25% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Contains Milk Egg

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 coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare coleslaw up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, for the freshest taste and crunch, it's best to toss in the dressing shortly before serving.

What can I add to coleslaw for extra flavor?

Consider adding ingredients like diced jalapeños for heat, or raisins for a touch of sweetness. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the flavor profile. For a twist, try incorporating a bit of mustard or vinegar into the dressing.

Is coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes, this coleslaw recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products. However, always check the labels of your mayonnaise and sour cream to ensure they are also gluten-free if you're serving those with dietary restrictions.

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).

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