Sweet And Sour Cole Slaw

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

Sweet and tangy cole slaw with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers in a creamy, slightly sweet dressing; perfect as a side for barbecues or light lunches.

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Ingredients

  • 4 to 5 cups finely cut cabbage
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/8 cup chopped bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 cup cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
  2. Mix well to coat evenly.
  3. Refrigerate and let set to marinate for 24 hours for best flavor.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crunchier texture, add the carrots and bell pepper just before serving. You can substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you prefer a lighter version, replace the evaporated milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. Experiment with additional spices like celery seed for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sweet and Sour Cole Slaw alongside grilled meats or as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches. It also pairs beautifully with Rachel'S Lemon Cake for a delightful meal. For a complete picnic spread, include chips and a refreshing drink to balance the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, but the cabbage may become softer. If you plan to serve it after a few days, consider adding a little extra cabbage to maintain crunchiness. Avoid reheating as this dish is best served cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sweet And Sour Cole Slaw contains roughly 167 calories, with 5g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (82% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2171mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).

167 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.7g 9% DV
Total Fat 4.8g 6% DV
Carbs 28.9g 11% DV
Fiber 6.5g 23% DV
Sugar 8.9g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2171mg 94% DV
Potassium 881.4mg 19% DV
Cholesterol 0mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 740.4mcg 82% DV
Vitamin C 56.2mg 62% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 142.7mg 11% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 use other vegetables in this cole slaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to add shredded broccoli, radishes, or even apples for a sweet twist. Just ensure that any additional vegetables are finely chopped to maintain the slaw's texture and flavor balance.

How long should I let the slaw marinate?

For the best flavor, allow the slaw to marinate for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator. This resting period allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, enhancing the sweet and sour profile.

Is this cole slaw suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Sweet and Sour Cole Slaw is completely vegetarian-friendly! The ingredients used are all plant-based, making it a perfect side dish for vegetarian recipes or for anyone looking to enjoy a fresh, crisp salad.

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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