Creamy Dreamy Coleslaw: Your New Picnic Essential

Forget boring coleslaw! This is the best coleslaw recipe for creamy, tangy perfection. Inspired by Southern coleslaw, it's your BBQ's new best friend. Get the recipe! ... Quick & Easy Weeknight Meals
Okay, ready to dive into coleslaw heaven?
Creamy Dreamy Coleslaw: Your New Picnic Essential
Ever wonder what makes a best coleslaw recipe truly shine? honestly, it's all about that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and just a touch sweet.
This recipe is it. think of this as your go-to, no-fail slaw for every occasion.
Southern Coleslaw Simplified
This classic coleslaw takes its inspiration from the south. it marries that sharp, vinegar-y tang with the oh-so-richness of creamy mayo and a hint of sugar.
The origin is simple, southern comfort food!. it is easy peasy! ready in just 15 minutes, plus chilling. this recipe makes about 6-8 servings so there's enough for everyone.
What Makes this Easy Coleslaw Recipe So Special?
This isn't just some boring side dish. forget dry, tasteless slaw! one of the top benefits, besides tasting amazing, is how easy it is to make.
I honestly think, the perfect occasion for this recipe is summer. what makes this recipe unique? this easy coleslaw recipe is all about the dressing.
The flavors are perfectly balanced.
Let's get our ingredients together! You will need the following ingredients for the coleslaw.
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks for the best coleslaw recipe ever! seriously, forget that gloopy, bland stuff you get at the supermarket.
We're talking proper southern coleslaw with a tangy kick. so, what goodies do we need?
Creamy Dreamy Coleslaw: Your New Picnic Essential Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Okay, so for this easy coleslaw , quality is key, especially with the cabbage. look for a nice, firm head of green cabbage.
It should feel heavy for its size. no wimpy, floppy leaves, alright?
- Cabbage: 1 small head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups or 600g ).
- Carrots: 2 medium carrots, shredded (about 1 cup or 150g ).
- Onion: 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup or 75g ).
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup (approx. 240ml ). Full-fat is essential for that creamy texture. Don't even think about using the low-fat stuff!
- Sugar: 1/4 cup (approx. 50g ).
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (approx. 30ml ). This is what gives it that lovely tang.
- Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons (approx. 30ml ).
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (approx. 15ml ), freshly squeezed, always!
- Celery Seed: 1/2 teaspoon (approx. 2g ).
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (approx. 1.5g ), or to taste.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (approx. 1.5g ), or to taste.
Seasoning Notes
Honestly, the dressing is where the magic happens in this creamy coleslaw recipe . the combination of apple cider vinegar and dijon mustard gives it a lovely tang, while the sugar balances it all out.
If you don't have celery seed, a tiny pinch of ground celery will do in a pinch. for a tangy coleslaw recipe , consider adding a teensy bit more apple cider vinegar.
You know your tastes.
Equipment Needed
Right, the tools! Nothing fancy here.
- A big bowl.
- A sharp knife, or even better, a mandoline if you're feeling fancy. Just watch your fingers, yeah?
- A small bowl for mixing the dressing.
- A whisk.
Listen, you don’t need much to whip up this homemade coleslaw dressing . you could even use a fork if you're really stuck! the easy coleslaw recipe vinegar taste will hit, guaranteed.
I remember one time, my blender broke right before a bbq. i had to chop everything by hand! took ages, but the classic coleslaw turned out amazing anyway.
Proof that good ingredients and a little love are all you really need.
So there you have it. Get your kit together, your shopping done and get ready to make some magic
Alright, let's get down to business! we're making the best coleslaw recipe , people. forget that sad, watery stuff you get in supermarkets.
This is the real deal. honestly, i used to be coleslaw-averse. but then i learned a few secrets.

Creamy Dreamy Coleslaw: Your New Picnic Essential
This ain't your grandma's dry coleslaw. (unless your grandma makes amazing coleslaw!). this creamy, tangy delight will be the star of any barbecue.
Think of it as southern coleslaw with a bit of a twist. it balances that lovely vinegar tang with creamy mayo.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
First things first. we need to get our act together. essential mise en place is key! shred 6 cups of green cabbage.
That's about one small head. shred 1 cup of carrots, too. two medium ones should do it. dice 1/2 cup of yellow onion.
Honestly, i sometimes skip the onion if i'm feeling lazy, but it adds a nice kick. pro tip: a mandoline is your friend for perfectly shredded cabbage.
Just watch your fingers, yeah?
Step-by-Step: Coleslaw Creation
- Veggies in a Bowl: Put the cabbage, carrots, and onion in a big bowl. Obvious, I know!
- Dressing Time: In a smaller bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayo (full-fat is the bomb), 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon celery seed, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Mix it Up: Pour the dressing over the veggies. Toss well! Everything needs to be coated in that slaw dressing .
- Chill Out: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes . The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld.
- Taste and Tweak: Give it a taste. Does it need more salt? More vinegar? Adjust to your liking!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Slaw
- Vinegar Variety: While apple cider vinegar is great, a bit of white wine vinegar works too, for a tangy coleslaw recipe .
- Don't Overdress: Add the dressing gradually. You don't want soupy coleslaw.
- Make Ahead: You can totally make this a day ahead. The flavors just get better! But, add the dressing right before serving to avoid a soggy slaw. Honestly, I've messed that up before.
This easy coleslaw recipe vinegar is amazing! Perfect as a classic coleslaw or easy coleslaw recipe . It's the best coleslaw recipe ever, don't you think?
Alright, let's talk shop about this amazing best coleslaw recipe . you know, the one that's gonna be the star of your summer bbq? it’s all about the details, innit? let's dive into some handy notes.
Recipe Notes
Ace Serving Suggestions
Okay, so you've got your creamy coleslaw recipe . now what? presentation, my friend, is key! honestly, even slapping it in a bowl works, but let's get fancy.
Think about a nice white bowl. simple, classic. or, if you're feeling extra, pile it high next to some proper bbq ribs.
Bangin'!
For sides, easy coleslaw loves a good burger. no brainer! and don’t forget the drinks! a crisp lager or even a cheeky glass of iced tea.
Lovely. for the best coleslaw recipe , think presentation, think harmony.
Bosh Storage Tips
Right, you've made a huge batch of this southern coleslaw . what about leftovers? no worries! into an airtight container it goes.
Pop it in the fridge. it'll be good for about 3 days. i mean, seriously, who has coleslaw hanging about longer than that? but honestly, best eaten fresh.
Freezing? Not recommended, love. Mayonnaise and freezing? Not a good mix. It gets all…weird. Reheating? Nah. Coleslaw is a cold dish, through and through.
Cracking Variations
Fancy mixing things up a bit? Course you do! For a lighter version, swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt. Still creamy, but less guilt! How good is that?
Or fancy a autumn twist? Diced apple makes it a treat.
Fab Nutrition Basics
Let's keep it simple, yeah? this tangy coleslaw recipe has some good stuff in it. cabbage is packed with vitamin c.
Carrots give you that beta-carotene. but also…it's got mayonnaise. so, it's not exactly a health food. it's a side dish .
Balance, my friend, balance.
Remember the reference " easy coleslaw recipe vinegar ". Vinegar also adds flavor and balances sweetness.
Look, at the end of the day, making this best coleslaw recipe should be fun. Experiment! Tweak it! Make it your own. And most importantly, enjoy it! You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent my coleslaw from being watery? No one likes a soggy bottom!
A watery coleslaw is a common problem. The key is to draw out excess moisture from the cabbage before adding the dressing. You can do this by lightly salting the shredded cabbage and letting it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Then, squeeze out the excess liquid before combining it with the other ingredients and dressing. This will ensure your "best coleslaw recipe" stays creamy and delicious, not a swimming pool.
Can I make this best coleslaw recipe ahead of time? I'm having a BBQ and want to be organised, like a proper Girl Guide!
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time is recommended. The flavors meld together beautifully when given time to sit. However, be mindful that it's best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making it as the cabbage will soften over time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
I'm not a huge fan of mayonnaise. Are there any alternatives I can use in this coleslaw?
Of course! You can substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier flavor. A combination of half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt works well. Just be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning, as Greek yogurt might need a touch more salt and pepper to balance the flavors. You could even try using a cashew-based cream for a vegan option.
What's the best way to shred cabbage for coleslaw? My attempts always end up a bit...rustic.
Evenly shredded cabbage is key for the perfect texture! A sharp knife is essential, and you can also use a mandoline (carefully!) for consistent slices. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cabbage is a fine substitute, but make sure it's fresh and crisp. Remove the tough core of the cabbage before shredding for a more tender result.
Can I add other veggies or fruits to this coleslaw recipe? I fancy jazzing it up a bit!
Definitely! Coleslaw is a fantastic blank canvas for creativity. Try adding shredded red cabbage, bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange for a pop of color!), or even some chopped apple or pineapple for sweetness. A handful of toasted pecans or walnuts adds a nice crunch, too. Just remember to adjust the dressing accordingly if you're adding a significant amount of other ingredients.
How long does coleslaw last in the fridge? I don't want to risk any dodgy tummy troubles!
Coleslaw is best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. After that, the cabbage can start to soften and the dressing may separate. Always use your best judgement; if it looks or smells off, it's best to err on the side of caution and toss it. Better safe than sorry, eh?