Carolina Coleslaw

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A crisp, tangy coleslaw featuring finely shredded cabbage, green pepper, and onion, perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish for any gathering.

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Ingredients

  • 1 head cabbage (about 3 lb.)
  • 1 medium green pepper
  • 1 medium Bermuda or Spanish onion

Instructions

  1. With a sharp knife, slice each quarter of the cabbage very fine.
  2. Combine the shredded cabbage with minced green pepper and chopped onion.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crunchier texture, consider adding a handful of grated carrots or using a food processor for slicing the cabbage. If you're looking to spice things up, a dash of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños can add heat. You can also substitute green bell pepper with red for a sweeter flavor or use a different type of onion for a milder taste. This coleslaw is inspired by various American recipes, so feel free to customize it to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Carolina coleslaw as a refreshing side dish to barbecued meats, particularly with dishes like Baked Ribs And Sauerkraut. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a hearty sandwich or burger. This slaw can also be a great topping for tacos for an added crunch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-5 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste over time. If you find it too watery after a day, simply drain off the excess liquid before serving. Avoid reheating as coleslaw is best enjoyed cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Carolina Coleslaw contains roughly 11 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.

11 kcal 1% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.1g
Carbs 2.1g 1% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 135.8mg 6% DV
Potassium 229.3mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 110.5mcg 12% DV
Vitamin C 33.1mg 37% DV
Calcium 49mg 4% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit High-protein Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw a day ahead. Just mix the cabbage, green pepper, and onion, and store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, add any dressing just before serving. This will help maintain the crunch and prevent the vegetables from becoming too soggy.

What can I add to make this coleslaw more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients like apple cider vinegar, a touch of sugar, or even a dollop of mayonnaise to create a creamier texture. Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro can also add a fresh twist. Experiment with spices like celery seed or smoked paprika for additional depth of flavor.

Is this coleslaw suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, the base of this Carolina coleslaw is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegan recipes. If you want to add a creamy element without dairy, consider using vegan mayonnaise or a simple vinaigrette to dress it, keeping it fresh and flavorful while adhering to vegan guidelines.

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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