Freezer Cold Slaw

Prep: 75 min Cuisine: American

A crisp, tangy coleslaw with a sweet and vinegary dressing, perfect for picnics and summer gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful, crunchy salads.

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Ingredients

  • 1 medium cabbage head
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 sweet pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon celery seed

Instructions

  1. Pour 1 cup water over the finely cut cabbage.
  2. Add grated carrot, sliced sweet pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt.
  3. Let stand for 1 hour, then hand squeeze to remove excess moisture.
  4. Boil 1 cup vinegar and 2 cups sugar together.
  5. Add 1 teaspoon celery seed and 1 teaspoon mustard seed to the boiling mixture.
  6. Pour the hot dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir well.
  7. Put in refrigerator to chill before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crunchier texture, use a food processor to finely chop the cabbage and grate the carrot. If you prefer a sweeter slaw, consider adding more sugar or a touch of honey. You can also substitute red or green bell peppers for the sweet pepper for a different flavor. This recipe can be adapted for vegan recipes by ensuring the sugar is vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this freezer cold slaw alongside grilled meats or barbecued dishes, as it pairs beautifully with Lemon-Garlic Round Steak. It also makes a great topping for sandwiches or burgers. For a complete meal, consider serving it with Oven Dill Potatoes or as part of a picnic spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cold slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld over time, enhancing the taste. If you need to serve it later, give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ensure freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Freezer Cold Slaw contains roughly 312 calories, with 8g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (231% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

312 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.7g 15% DV
Total Fat 1.4g 2% DV
Carbs 72.5g 26% DV
Fiber 19.1g 68% DV
Sugar 27.6g 55% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 748.7mg 33% DV
Potassium 1880.5mg 40% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2081.9mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 102.5mg 100% DV
Calcium 171.5mg 13% DV
Iron 3.8mg 21% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 slaw in advance?

Yes, this slaw is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to develop more fully. Just be sure to stir it before serving to mix the dressing that may have settled.

What can I use instead of sugar?

If you're looking for a substitute for sugar, consider using agave nectar or stevia for a lower-calorie option. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust to taste.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the dressing. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cabbage mixture for a zesty 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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