Crispy Coleslaw
Crispy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch with shredded cabbage, sweet pickles, and a tangy, creamy dressing. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or casual gatherings, it combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors for a crowd-pleasing, vibrant addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shredded cabbage, minced onion, and sweet pickle cubes in a large bowl.
- Set the cabbage mixture aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, celery seed or celery salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well.
- Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for several hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve the coleslaw in a lettuce-lined bowl, garnished with pepper rings and pimento if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To add extra crunch, consider incorporating shredded carrots or bell peppers. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. For a tangier flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or swap the white vinegar for apple cider vinegar. This recipe is quite versatile and can be adapted to suit personal tastes and dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy coleslaw pairs beautifully with Barbecued Roast for a delightful summer meal. It can also be served as a refreshing side to grilled meats or sandwiches. For a complete picnic spread, consider serving it alongside Marshmallow Kabobs and Four-Fruit Party Punch for a vibrant, seasonal feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the cabbage may lose some crispness over time. If serving later, consider adding a bit more dressing to rejuvenate the texture. Avoid freezing as it can make the cabbage mushy when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Coleslaw contains roughly 142 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 531mg per serving (23% 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 vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this coleslaw vegan by substituting the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative. Additionally, ensure that any sugar used is vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
How long should I let the coleslaw sit before serving?
For best flavor, it's recommended to let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the ingredients to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
What can I add for a spicy kick?
If you enjoy a spicy twist, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick without overpowering the classic flavors.
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).