Southern Slaw

Prep: 15 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A creamy, tangy Southern slaw with cabbage, carrot, and onion, dressed in a sweet and savory mayonnaise-based sauce, perfect as a side for barbecues or picnics.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cabbage, grated
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp. salad oil
  • 3/4 c. mayonnaise
  • 1/2 c. sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp. celery seed
  • 1 1/2 tsp. prepared mustard
  • 1/4 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Combine cabbage, carrot, onion, and salad oil in a bowl.
  2. Toss until the cabbage is coated with oil.
  3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator.
  4. Mix mayonnaise, sugar, cider vinegar, celery seed, prepared mustard, and salt in a separate bowl.
  5. Combine the dressing with the chilled vegetable mixture.
  6. Serve cold.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier slaw, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain yogurt. You can also add diced apples or raisins for a touch of sweetness. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, and allow the slaw to sit for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Serving Suggestions

This Southern Slaw is a perfect side dish for barbecued ribs, adding a crunchy contrast to the rich flavors. It also pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches. For a complete meal, serve it alongside coleslaw and cornbread, or use it as a topping for tacos to add a refreshing crunch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the cabbage may become softer over time. Avoid freezing this slaw, as the texture of the vegetables will suffer once thawed. To serve again, enjoy it cold directly from the fridge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Southern Slaw contains roughly 287 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 462mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).

287 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.3g 3% DV
Total Fat 28g 36% DV
Carbs 9.8g 4% DV
Fiber 2.4g 8% DV
Sugar 3.1g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 462.4mg 20% DV
Potassium 312.5mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 220.9mcg 25% DV
Vitamin C 10.9mg 12% DV
Calcium 46.2mg 4% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly 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 this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, this slaw can be made a day in advance. It actually benefits from sitting in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld. Just remember to stir it well before serving to redistribute the dressing.

What type of cabbage works best for slaw?

Green cabbage is the classic choice for slaw due to its crunchy texture and mild flavor. However, you can also use red cabbage for a vibrant color and slightly different taste. Mixing both types can create a beautiful presentation.

Can I make this slaw vegan?

Absolutely! To make this Southern Slaw vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a combination of tahini and lemon juice. This will keep the creamy texture while making it suitable for vegan diets.

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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