Calico Coleslaw
A vibrant, crunchy coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, peas, and savory Parmesan cheese, dressed in a creamy mayonnaise mixture—perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, diced onions, thawed peas, bacon bits, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, mix nonfat mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and sugar until well blended.
- Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the cabbage mixture.
- Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill the coleslaw for several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider adding diced bell peppers or apples for a sweet twist. If you're looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be used in place of nonfat mayonnaise. Adjust the sugar based on your preference for sweetness, and feel free to add more spices like garlic powder for added flavor. This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with hearty American recipes like BBQ or grilled meats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant Calico Coleslaw alongside grilled chicken or as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches for a delightful crunch. It also complements dishes like Meat Loaf Balls or Neva'S Layer Salad beautifully. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of cornbread or baked beans. This dish is perfect for summer picnics and potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cabbage and carrots will become mushy when thawed. Simply give it a good stir before serving again to redistribute any separated dressing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Coleslaw contains roughly 255 calories, with 15g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (173% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (148% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 994mg per serving (43% 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 coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just be sure to mix the dressing separately and combine it with the vegetables shortly before serving to keep everything crisp. Chilling it overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste.
What can I substitute for bacon bits?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can use toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for a nutty flavor. Alternatively, smoked paprika can impart a smoky taste without the meat. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce in the dressing. Alternatively, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mix for an extra kick.
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).