Easy Coleslaw

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A quick, crunchy coleslaw with sweet and tangy flavors, perfect as a side dish for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings, customizable with optional horseradish.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small cabbage
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp vinegar
  • green food coloring (optional)
  • 3 Tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • horseradish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Chop the cabbage very finely in a food processor.
  2. Sprinkle sugar and salt over the chopped cabbage.
  3. Leave the mixture to sit for 1 minute.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier coleslaw, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add shredded carrots or chopped apples for extra flavor and texture. If you prefer a tangy twist, a splash of lemon juice can enhance the overall taste. Adjust the sugar according to your sweetness preference, and feel free to add a dash of horseradish for an added kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this coleslaw as a refreshing side dish at a summer barbecue or alongside sandwiches, particularly pulled pork or grilled chicken. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Oven Roast Potatoes. For a complete meal, consider adding it to tacos or serving it alongside a hearty soup.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cabbage will soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change. For best results, stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing that may settle.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Easy Coleslaw contains roughly 221 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).

221 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.6g 1% DV
Total Fat 23.5g 30% DV
Carbs 3.1g 1% DV
Fiber 0.7g 2% DV
Sugar 2g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 746.4mg 32% DV
Potassium 134.1mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 53mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 9.8mg 11% DV
Calcium 33.8mg 3% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Egg

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 in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw a day ahead. However, it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the cabbage crisp. If you mix it too early, the cabbage will release moisture and become soggy.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

If you're looking for a healthier option, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free version. Both alternatives will give a creamy texture while adding their unique flavor.

How can I make this coleslaw spicier?

To add some heat, mix in a small amount of diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. Alternatively, incorporating spicy mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile and give it a nice 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).

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