Old Time Coleslaw

Prep: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A classic, creamy coleslaw with tangy vinegar and sweet undertones, perfect as a side for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings, offering crisp cabbage and fresh carrots.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup cider or white wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 3/4 teaspoon celery salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 head cabbage (about 2 lb.), chopped
  • 2 carrots, shredded
  • 1 small onion, minced

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, stir mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, celery salt, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Add chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, and minced onion.
  3. Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the dressing.
  4. Chill covered for at least 1 hour.
  5. Toss gently before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier coleslaw, consider using a mix of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. If you're short on time, pre-shredded coleslaw mix can save you effort. Adjust the sugar to your taste; honey can be a great natural substitute. Adding diced apples or raisins can enhance the flavor profile, offering a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Old Time Coleslaw as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a perfect complement to dishes like ribs or chicken. For a complete meal, enjoy it alongside a bowl of Country Soup Supper or as a topping for sandwiches and tacos.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness, as the vegetables may become soggy over time. If you need to reheat it, gently toss it in a skillet over low heat, but serving it cold is recommended to maintain its crispness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old Time Coleslaw contains roughly 237 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1090mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).

237 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 19.8g 25% DV
Carbs 15.2g 6% DV
Fiber 4.5g 16% DV
Sugar 6.7g 13% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1090.4mg 47% DV
Potassium 527.1mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 542.5mcg 60% DV
Vitamin C 9.7mg 11% DV
Calcium 57.9mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
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 coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Just ensure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, it's best to toss it again before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free version. Both will offer a creamy texture while reducing calories or accommodating dietary restrictions.

How can I add more flavor to my coleslaw?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley. A splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the taste. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like chopped nuts or seeds can add a delightful crunch and complexity.

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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