Coleslaw
Creamy and tangy, this classic coleslaw features shredded cabbage and diced onion coated in a sweet and vinegary dressing, accented with mustard and celery seed. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or casual gatherings, it offers a crunchy, flavorful complement to many meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the shredded cabbage and diced onion in a large bowl and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar, white vinegar, prepared mustard, salt, and celery seed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring often to dissolve the sugar.
- Remove from heat and stir in the oil.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and onion mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider including grated carrots or sliced bell peppers. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, substitute half of the oil with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Adjust the sugar to your taste, especially if you prefer a less sweet dressing. For a tangier flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or swapping in apple cider vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
This coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a perfect side for a summer barbecue or picnics. It complements dishes like London Broil Marinade or even as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches. For a complete meal, serve it alongside baked beans or cornbread for a classic American experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the cabbage may become softer over time. If you anticipate leftovers, consider storing the dressing separately to maintain the cabbage's crunch. When ready to serve, simply combine the ingredients again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coleslaw contains roughly 188 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1001mg per serving (44% 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 coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare coleslaw a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to dress the salad just a few hours before serving to prevent the cabbage from wilting.
How can I make coleslaw vegan?
To make this coleslaw vegan, replace the oil with a plant-based alternative, and consider using a vegan mayonnaise instead of the oil for a creamier dressing. You can also add chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and nutrition.
What can I add to coleslaw for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor of coleslaw by adding ingredients like chopped apples, raisins, or nuts for sweetness and crunch. A sprinkle of paprika or a dash of hot sauce can also add an interesting twist to the dressing.
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).