Italian Sweet Slaw

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Italian

Italian Sweet Slaw offers a tangy, sweet flavor with crunchy cabbage and onion, perfect as a side dish for summer gatherings or family meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cabbage, shredded
  • 1 onion, thin sliced in rings
  • 7/8 cup sugar
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 3/4 cup salad oil
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon powdered mustard

Instructions

  1. Layer shredded cabbage in a bowl alternately with onion rings. Top with 7/8 cup sugar.
  2. In a pan, bring vinegar, salad oil, sugar, salt, and powdered mustard to a boil.
  3. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the cabbage and onion in the bowl.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a balanced flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and color. If you prefer a tangier slaw, increase the vinegar slightly. You can substitute white sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also enhance the dish, providing an aromatic touch common in many Italian recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Bettie Mccright'S Italian Family Spaghetti Sauce for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it on its own or as a topping for tacos and burgers, providing a sweet and tangy contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Italian Sweet Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, making it even more delicious. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cabbage will become mushy upon thawing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Italian Sweet Slaw contains roughly 252 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 506mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

252 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.3g 3% DV
Total Fat 21.7g 28% DV
Carbs 13.9g 5% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 3.1g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 506.4mg 22% DV
Potassium 85.5mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 5.4mg 6% DV
Calcium 15.9mg 1% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb 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 slaw in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a day ahead. Just follow the recipe instructions and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings, as the flavors will develop over time.

What type of vinegar works best for this recipe?

White vinegar is commonly used for its sharpness, but you can also try apple cider vinegar for a milder, fruity flavor. Balsamic vinegar could add a different depth of sweetness, though it may alter the color of the slaw.

Is there a vegan version of this slaw?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly! All the ingredients used, including sugar and salad oil, do not contain animal products. Just ensure that the sugar you use is vegan, as some brands use bone char in processing.

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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