Cole Slaw Salad
A crisp and creamy cole slaw salad with shredded cabbage, tangy dressing, and garnishes, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any casual meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crisp the shredded cabbage in ice water, if necessary.
- Combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, grated onion, celery seed, sugar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Drain the cabbage thoroughly and mix it with the dressing.
- Serve in lettuce cups.
- Garnish with a dash of paprika and a green pepper ring.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or substituting half with Greek yogurt. If you prefer a tangy kick, try using apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice. For added crunch, toss in some shredded carrots or sliced almonds. To enhance flavor, let the slaw sit in the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with Lemon-Lime Iced Tea.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cole slaw in crisp lettuce cups for a refreshing presentation, or alongside grilled meats for a classic summer meal. It also makes a delicious topping for pulled pork sandwiches or fish tacos. For a complete meal, pair it with sides such as baked beans or cornbread. This slaw complements American recipes beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The slaw may lose some crunch over time, so if you plan to reheat it, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid wilting the cabbage further. It's best enjoyed cold, so serving it straight from the fridge is ideal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cole Slaw Salad contains roughly 66 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 722mg per serving (31% 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 cole slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cole slaw a day in advance. Just mix the dressing and cabbage, but keep them separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the cabbage's crunch. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Mixing right before serving will keep your slaw fresh and vibrant.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this cole slaw recipe vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative made from aquafaba or cashew cream. Ensure that the sugar is vegan as well, as some sugars are processed with bone char. This way, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based version of this classic salad.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra flavor in your cole slaw, consider adding ingredients like diced apples for sweetness, or raisins for a chewy texture. You can also mix in some finely chopped jalapeños for heat, or fresh herbs like cilantro or dill for a refreshing twist. These additions can elevate your slaw to the next level.
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).