Italian Cole Slaw

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Italian

Italian Cole Slaw offers a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor profile with crunchy cabbage and carrots, complemented by a flavorful vinegar-based dressing. Its vibrant taste makes it an excellent side dish for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, appealing to those who enjoy fresh, homemade salads with a twist.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small head cabbage
  • 1 large carrot
  • 1 medium onion
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup salad oil
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard

Instructions

  1. Grate the cabbage and carrot, and chop the onion.
  2. Sprinkle 3/4 cup sugar over the vegetables and mix well.
  3. Bring the vinegar, salad oil, 2 teaspoons sugar, salt, and dry mustard to a boil.
  4. Pour the hot dressing over the cabbage mixture.
  5. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  6. Refrigerate and let sit for at least a few hours before serving. Will keep for weeks in the refrigerator.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or celery for extra crunch. If you prefer a tangier taste, increase the vinegar slightly. For a healthier twist, substitute half the salad oil with Greek yogurt. This cole slaw pairs well with Italian recipes like Fettuccine Primavera and Italian Spaghetti Salad, making it a versatile side dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Italian cole slaw as a refreshing side with grilled meats or sandwiches. It complements dishes like Lisa's Ravioli Marinara nicely. For a complete meal, pair it with Rice Napoli for a delightful Italian feast. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This cole slaw can last for up to two weeks, as the vinegar helps preserve it. Avoid reheating, as it is best served cold. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Italian Cole Slaw contains roughly 317 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 817mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).

317 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.4g 5% DV
Total Fat 25.5g 33% DV
Carbs 21.2g 8% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 5.8g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 817.1mg 36% DV
Potassium 321.8mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 102.8mcg 11% DV
Vitamin C 13.6mg 15% DV
Calcium 55.6mg 4% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal

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 cole slaw ahead of time?

Yes, this cole slaw tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dish for gatherings or picnics.

What kind of vinegar works best for this recipe?

White vinegar is commonly used for its sharpness, but you can also use apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor. Experiment with both to find your preferred taste.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the salad oil with a vegan-friendly oil and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based. This cole slaw is naturally vegan, making it a perfect addition to your vegan recipes collection.

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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