If you have ever craved that perfect crunchy, tangy, and creamy salad that can elevate any meal, then you are in for a treat with this Homemade Classic Coleslaw Recipe. It’s a timeless combination of crisp cabbage and vibrant carrots, all lovingly tossed in a rich, tangy dressing that hugs every shred just right. Whether you’re looking to add a refreshing side to your barbecue, picnic, or weeknight dinner, this coleslaw hits all the right notes with simplicity and soul. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed coleslaw any other way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with a handful of simple ingredients that each play a crucial role. For this recipe, you don’t need a pantry full of fancy items—just a few fresh and flavorful essentials that come together beautifully to deliver that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.
- Green cabbage: The star of the show, shredded finely for that classic crunch and fresh, slightly peppery flavor.
- Carrots: Grated to add sweetness and vibrant orange color that brightens up the salad.
- Full-fat mayonnaise: Provides the creamy, luscious base that makes the dressing irresistibly smooth and rich.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings a tangy zing that cuts through the richness of the mayo and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch to round out the acidity and enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Salt and pepper: The indispensable seasoning duo that elevates every bite with depth and seasoning.
- Celery seeds (optional): Adds a subtle, earthy aroma and complexity, making the flavor even more authentic.
How to Make Homemade Classic Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
Start by shredding the green cabbage as finely as you can—using a sharp knife, box grater, or food processor will work just fine. The finer the shred, the better every forkful will mix with the dressing later. Next, grate the carrots to add a beautiful burst of orange and a touch of natural sweetness. Make sure your veggies are fresh and crisp to give your coleslaw that delightful crunch with each bite.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine the full-fat mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of your Homemade Classic Coleslaw Recipe—it’s that tangy and rich coating that makes all the veggies sing in harmony.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrots directly into your bowl of dressing. Use tongs or two large spoons to toss until the vegetables are evenly coated with the luscious dressing. This step ensures every crunchy shred gets a chance to soak in the flavors and makes your coleslaw irresistible.
Step 4: Chill and Meld Flavors
Once everything is combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period is essential because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, softening the cabbage slightly while keeping that satisfying texture intact.
Step 5: Final Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give your coleslaw a good stir and taste to see if it needs a pinch more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar for extra brightness. Small adjustments make a big difference in perfecting this beloved dish.
How to Serve Homemade Classic Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch of flair, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a few extra celery seeds on top of your coleslaw before serving. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add subtle layers of flavor that invite curiosity and compliments from guests.
Side Dishes
This Homemade Classic Coleslaw Recipe pairs wonderfully with anything from freshly grilled barbecue ribs, crispy fried chicken, or juicy pulled pork sandwiches. It also balances rich dishes beautifully by adding a refreshing and crunchy contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Try serving the coleslaw in individual mini mason jars for picnics or potlucks, or spoon it onto loaded baked potatoes or crispy taco shells for a fun twist. Presentation can make even a classic salad feel new and exciting, sparking joy at your dining table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover coleslaw stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, but the cabbage will soften slightly, so enjoy it sooner if you prefer a crisper texture.
Freezing
Coleslaw is not ideal for freezing because the mayonnaise-based dressing can separate and the veggies may become watery or mushy upon thawing. For best results, enjoy this homemade classic coleslaw fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This coleslaw is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it diminishes the fresh crunch and creamy texture that make this dish so delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is classic, mixing in some red cabbage adds beautiful color and a slightly different texture that’s equally delicious.
Is it possible to make this coleslaw vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the full-fat mayonnaise for a plant-based mayo alternative. The apple cider vinegar and seasonings remain the same, delivering similar tang and creaminess.
How long should I chill coleslaw before serving?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes is ideal to allow flavors to marry, but if you can, letting it rest for an hour or two really elevates the taste.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with shredded radishes, thinly sliced green onions, or diced bell peppers to add extra crunch, color, and flavor.
Should I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
This Homemade Classic Coleslaw Recipe is great for making a few hours up to a day in advance. Just give it a gentle stir and a quick taste adjustment before serving to freshen up the flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a bowl of homemade coleslaw that feels fresh, crunchy, and perfectly dressed. This Homemade Classic Coleslaw Recipe is easy to whip up, full of delightful textures and flavors, and versatile enough for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try—I promise it will become a fast favorite that you reach for time and time again!
Print
Homemade Classic Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This homemade coleslaw recipe is a classic, creamy side dish featuring shredded green cabbage and grated carrots tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfectly chilled to meld flavors, it serves as a refreshing accompaniment to barbecues, picnics, or any meal needing a crisp, crunchy salad.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded
- 2 medium carrots, grated
Dressing
- 1 cup full-fat mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp celery seeds
Instructions
- Shred and grate vegetables: Shred the cabbage finely using a box grater or food processor. Grate the carrots similarly to ensure even texture and easy mixing.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the full-fat mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix vegetables with dressing: Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrots into the bowl with the dressing. Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are coated evenly with the creamy dressing.
- Chill the coleslaw: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully meld and develop.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: After chilling, taste the coleslaw and add extra salt, pepper, or celery seeds if desired. Serve cold as a crisp, refreshing side dish.
Notes
- For best results, shred cabbage and grate carrots finely for a uniform texture.
- Chilling the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor melding but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before serving.
- Celery seeds add a nice earthy flavor but are optional; omit if unavailable or undesired.
- Use full-fat mayonnaise for the creamiest texture; light versions may make the dressing runnier.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste, especially if you prefer a less sweet coleslaw.
