Three Day Old Refrigerator Slaw
A tangy, crunchy coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing, perfect for picnics and barbecues, offering a balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors that improve over time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss the shredded cabbage, sliced bell pepper, and chopped onions in a large bowl.
- Bring the vinegar, salt, oil, dry mustard, sugar, and celery seed to a boil.
- Pour the hot dressing over the cabbage mixture.
- Toss the slaw during cooling to evenly coat.
- Cover and store in the refrigerator for several weeks.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider using a mix of red and green cabbage. You can substitute the bell pepper with shredded carrots or radishes for a different flavor profile. If you're sensitive to vinegar, try using apple cider vinegar for a milder taste. Adjust the sugar to your preference, especially if you like your slaw more tangy or sweet. Remember to toss the slaw occasionally as it cools to ensure even coating.
Serving Suggestions
This slaw is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, especially during summer barbecues. It pairs beautifully with Mississippi Barbecue Sauce and makes an excellent topping for sandwiches. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Lemon Chicken(One-Skillet Meal) for a refreshing contrast. You can also enjoy it as a topping on tacos or burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for several weeks due to the vinegar, which acts as a preservative. If you find it too salty or tangy after some time, you can balance it with a bit of additional sugar or a dollop of mayonnaise. Stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Day Old Refrigerator Slaw contains roughly 341 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 722mg per serving (31% 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
How long will the slaw last in the refrigerator?
The slaw can last for several weeks in the refrigerator due to its vinegar-based dressing, which acts as a preservative. Just make sure to keep it covered in an airtight container. You may notice the flavors intensifying over time, which many people find appealing.
Can I make this slaw vegan?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan as it does not include any animal products. The dressing made from vinegar and oil is plant-based, making it suitable for those following vegan recipes. Just ensure that the sugar you use is also vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
What can I add to the slaw for extra flavor?
You can add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or a handful of raisins for sweetness. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the flavor profile. For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of citrus juice or zest, which will brighten the overall 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).