Creamy Coleslaw Recipe: A Tangy & Refreshing Side Dish
Looking for the perfect side dish to complement your BBQ, picnic, or even a casual weeknight dinner? Look no further than this creamy coleslaw recipe. This recipe delivers a delightful balance of tangy, creamy, and crunchy, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. It's surprisingly easy to make, and the result is a deliciously refreshing coleslaw that's far superior to store-bought versions.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick meal prep. You'll need:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage: Finely shredded. You can also add some red cabbage for extra color and a slightly peppery bite.
- 1 large carrot: Grated. Adds sweetness and a vibrant orange hue.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of your coleslaw. Consider using a high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar: Provides the perfect tangy contrast to the creamy mayonnaise.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the acidity and adds a touch of sweetness. You can adjust this to your preference.
- 1 teaspoon celery seed: Adds a subtle earthy flavor that complements the cabbage and carrots beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity.
Instructions for Creamy Coleslaw Perfection:
Follow these simple steps for a consistently delicious coleslaw:
-
Prep the Veggies: Shred the cabbage finely using a sharp knife or a food processor. Grate the carrot. The finer the shred, the better the coleslaw will absorb the creamy dressing.
-
Whisk the Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
-
Combine & Chill: Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrot to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
-
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill. This step is crucial for the best taste and texture. The longer it chills, the more flavorful it becomes – up to a few hours is ideal!
Tips for Extra Delicious Creamy Coleslaw:
- Add some crunch: Toasted sesame seeds, chopped pecans, or even some crispy fried onions can add a delightful crunch to your coleslaw.
- Spice it up: For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.
- Get creative with the veggies: Experiment with adding other vegetables like thinly sliced red onion, bell peppers, or even shredded Brussels sprouts.
- Make it ahead: This coleslaw is perfect for making ahead of time. The flavors develop even more as it sits in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy coleslaw is incredibly versatile. It's a perfect accompaniment to:
- Barbecues: Pair it with grilled burgers, hot dogs, ribs, or pulled pork.
- Picnics: It's a refreshing and easy-to-transport side dish.
- Sandwiches and wraps: Add a spoonful to your favorite sandwich or wrap for extra flavor and texture.
- Tacos and burritos: For a unique twist, add some coleslaw to your Mexican-inspired dishes.
This creamy coleslaw recipe is a surefire hit at any gathering. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Enjoy!
