John'S "Cold Slaw"
A crisp, tangy coleslaw with sweet pickle flavor, perfect for picnics and barbecues, offering a delightful blend of crunchy cabbage, onion, and sweet pickle accents.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cabbage and onion together in a large bowl.
- Blend sugar, mustard, salt, celery seed, sweet pickle, and sweet pickle juice until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and onion mixture.
- Toss until the coleslaw is evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using a sugar substitute or honey instead of sugar. You can also swap out the sweet pickles for dill pickles for a tangy twist. Always taste the dressing before adding it to the cabbage to ensure the flavor is to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
This coleslaw is a delightful side dish for barbecues or picnics and pairs beautifully with Lynchburg Lemonade. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a summer buffet. For a complete meal, consider adding it to sandwiches or wraps for added crunch and flavor. It also complements American recipes like fried chicken perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The coleslaw will keep well for up to 3 days. However, the longer it sits, the softer the cabbage will become. To refresh the texture, consider stirring in a bit of extra dressing before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of John'S "Cold Slaw" contains roughly 42 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value).
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 the coleslaw a day in advance. Just mix the cabbage and dressing separately and combine them a few hours before serving to maintain the crunch of the cabbage. This allows the flavors to meld without wilting the vegetables too much.
Can I substitute the cabbage with another vegetable?
Absolutely! While cabbage is traditional, you can use shredded carrots, broccoli slaw, or even kale for a different texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the dressing's sweetness and adjust accordingly to complement the new vegetable.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this coleslaw vegan, simply replace any mayonnaise-based dressings with a vegan alternative or stick to the original dressing in the recipe, which is naturally vegan. Enjoy it as is for a fresh and healthy side dish that fits vegan recipes perfectly.
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).