Family Reunion Cole Slaw

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

A tangy and crunchy coleslaw with a sweet and vinegary dressing, perfect for family gatherings and picnics, offering a classic, flavorful side dish everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

  • 3 heads cabbage, shredded
  • 5 mild onions, chopped
  • 4 1/2 cups oil
  • 6 cups vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons celery seed
  • 2 tablespoons dry mustard
  • 4 tablespoons salt
  • 5 cups sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine shredded cabbage and chopped onions in a large bowl.
  2. In a saucepan, bring oil, vinegar, celery seed, dry mustard, salt, and sugar to a boil.
  3. Pour the hot mixture over the cabbage and onions.
  4. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier coleslaw, consider adding a cup of mayonnaise or yogurt to the dressing. If you prefer a tangy flavor, substitute half of the vinegar with lemon juice. To save time, pre-shredded coleslaw mix works well. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar to your taste. This recipe is a great base for various American recipes, allowing you to customize it with additional ingredients like carrots or apples.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cole slaw alongside BBQ dishes, fried chicken, or burgers for a classic summer meal. It pairs beautifully with Colorful Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial meal, add it to a wrap or sandwich. Consider serving it at potlucks or family gatherings for a delicious side that complements a variety of flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier. Avoid reheating, as cole slaw is best served cold. If you need to freshen it up before serving, stir in a little more vinegar or oil to revive the dressing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Family Reunion Cole Slaw contains roughly 1722 calories, with 12g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 127g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (190% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and potassium (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2307mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).

1722 kcal 86% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.6g 23% DV
Total Fat 127.4g 100% DV
Carbs 136.8g 50% DV
Fiber 17.7g 63% DV
Sugar 42.2g 84% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2307.2mg 100% DV
Potassium 1786.3mg 38% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 343.7mcg 38% DV
Vitamin C 171.4mg 100% DV
Calcium 310.7mg 24% DV
Iron 5.8mg 32% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 use different types of cabbage?

Yes, you can mix different types of cabbage such as red cabbage for color and flavor variation. Napa cabbage adds a milder taste, while savoy cabbage provides a unique texture. Experimenting with these options can enhance the dish and make it visually appealing.

How long should I let the cole slaw marinate?

Refrigerating the cole slaw overnight is ideal, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cabbage to soften slightly. However, if you're short on time, letting it sit for at least 2-4 hours can still provide a delicious result.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this cole slaw is vegan as it does not contain any animal products. The dressing relies on oil and vinegar, making it a great option for those seeking vegan recipes. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences while keeping it plant-based.

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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