Grandma'S Coleslaw

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

Grandma's coleslaw offers a tangy, fresh flavor with shredded cabbage, carrots, dill, and lemon, complemented by creamy mayonnaise—perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small head red cabbage, grated
  • 1/4 cup boiling water
  • sea salt or seasoned salt
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill or 2 tablespoons dried dill
  • 1 to 2 cups mayonnaise or mayonnaise dressing
  • juice of 1 small lemon

Instructions

  1. Pour boiling water over the grated cabbage.
  2. Add salt or seasoned salt and knead well to soften the cabbage.
  3. Add grated carrot, lemon juice, and dill.
  4. Stir in mayonnaise and mix thoroughly.
  5. Refrigerate before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crunchier texture, serve the coleslaw immediately after preparing it instead of refrigerating. If fresh dill is unavailable, dried dill works well but use half the amount. You can also substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Adding a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity from the lemon juice. For a twist, try incorporating ingredients from American recipes like apples or nuts.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues. Consider serving alongside dishes like Crack Salad or Inez Watson's Green Tomato Pickles for a well-rounded meal. For a light lunch, enjoy it atop a bed of Bibb Lettuce And Fruit for added freshness and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together over time, enhancing the taste. To refresh the coleslaw before serving, stir in a little extra mayo or a splash of lemon juice. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cabbage can become mushy upon thawing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma'S Coleslaw contains roughly 164 calories, with 6g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (100% of the Daily Value), iron (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).

164 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.9g 12% DV
Total Fat 2.5g 3% DV
Carbs 35.1g 13% DV
Fiber 8.4g 30% DV
Sugar 9.8g 20% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 609.2mg 26% DV
Potassium 1257.4mg 27% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 899.7mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 11.5mg 13% DV
Calcium 333mg 26% DV
Iron 9.8mg 54% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 this coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this coleslaw a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will develop as it sits, but the cabbage may lose some crunch. For the best texture, serve it within 24 hours.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo can be used instead of traditional mayonnaise. These options will still provide a creamy texture while lowering the calorie count. You can also experiment with sour cream for a tangy flavor.

Is there a way to make this coleslaw spicier?

Absolutely! To add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. You could also stir in some hot sauce to the mayonnaise before combining with the other ingredients. This will give your Grandma's Coleslaw a delightful 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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