Pennsylvania Dutch Cole Slaw
A classic Pennsylvania Dutch cole slaw featuring crunchy cabbage and carrots in a tangy, sweet mayonnaise-based dressing, perfect as a side dish for picnics and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots; set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate overnight before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cabbage and carrots work well, but fresh ingredients will yield the best flavor. Adjust the sugar to taste; if you prefer a tangier slaw, reduce the sugar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This Pennsylvania Dutch Cole Slaw pairs beautifully with classic American recipes like BBQ pulled pork or fried chicken. Serve it alongside a picnic spread or as a crunchy topping on sandwiches. For a colorful presentation, garnish with additional shredded carrots or serve in a vibrant bowl. It also makes a great side for summer gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cole slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, but the texture may soften over time. To refresh the slaw before serving, give it a gentle toss and add a bit more dressing if needed. Avoid freezing as the mayonnaise may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pennsylvania Dutch Cole Slaw contains roughly 60 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good mix before serving. If you find it too watery, you can drain off excess liquid before serving.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?
For a lighter alternative, you might try using a mix of sour cream and yogurt. For a vegan option, you can substitute with a plant-based mayonnaise or use mashed avocado for creaminess. Adjust the seasonings as necessary to complement the replacements.
Is there a way to make this slaw spicier?
Certainly! You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra kick. Alternatively, incorporating a bit of cayenne pepper or black pepper can enhance the heat without overpowering the dish. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
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).