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Easy Coleslaw
This Easy Coleslaw recipe is creamy, crunchy, and comes together in just minutes using simple pantry ingredients and a bag of coleslaw mix. It’s the perfect side dish for summer cookouts, BBQs, potlucks, sandwiches, burgers, and fried chicken. The sweet and tangy homemade dressing pairs perfectly with crisp cabbage for a classic coleslaw everyone loves.
Coleslaw has long been a popular side dish because it’s inexpensive, easy to prepare, and pairs well with grilled and comfort foods. Many traditional coleslaw recipes use a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing with vinegar and a touch of sweetness for balance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make
- Uses simple ingredients
- Perfect make-ahead side dish
- Great for BBQs and potlucks
- Creamy, sweet, and tangy flavor
Easy Coleslaw Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 1½ Tbsp lemon or lime juice
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 14-ounce bag coleslaw mix (or ½ head shredded cabbage)
How to Make Easy Coleslaw
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, lemon or lime juice, vinegar, black pepper, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Place the coleslaw mix in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve. For the best flavor, chill for 15-30 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Homemade Coleslaw
- Use fresh cabbage for the best crunch and texture.
- If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add a little extra sugar to taste.
- For a tangier flavor, add an extra splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Stir the coleslaw again before serving since the dressing settles as it chills.
Variations and Add-Ins
This simple coleslaw recipe is easy to customize with extra ingredients and flavors.
Popular Add-Ins
- Shredded carrots
- Chopped green onions
- Celery seed
- Diced apples
- Pineapple tidbits
- Raisins or dried cranberries
Southern Style Coleslaw
Add a small amount of celery seed and use extra vinegar for a classic Southern-style flavor.
What to Serve With Coleslaw
Easy coleslaw pairs perfectly with:
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Hamburgers and hot dogs
- BBQ chicken
- Fried chicken
- Fish tacos
- Ribs and grilled meats
It’s also great as a topping for sandwiches and tacos.
Storage Tips
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh, as the cabbage softens over time.
Avoid freezing coleslaw because the creamy dressing can separate after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes. If you want to make the coleslaw dressing in advance, you can, but keep the dressing separate from the cabbage until closer to serving time. The longer the cabbage sits in the coleslaw dressing, the softer and less crunchy it will become. When you are ready to serve, mix the dressing and cabbage together and serve immediately or within 2 hours for best results.
What’s the best cabbage for coleslaw?
Green cabbage is the most common choice, but red cabbage or a mix of both also works well.
Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Absolutely. Bagged coleslaw mix makes this recipe fast and convenient.
Why does coleslaw get watery?
Cabbage naturally releases moisture as it sits. Stir the coleslaw before serving or drain off excess liquid if needed.
Easy Coleslaw
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 1½ Tbsp lemon or lime juice
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 14 -ounce bag coleslaw mix ( or ½ head shredded cabbage)
Instructions
- Whisk mayonnaise, sugar, lemon or lime juice, vinegar, pepper, and salt together in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Pour over a 14-ounce package of coleslaw mix and stir together. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition
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- One 16 fluid ounce bottle of Apple Cider Vinegar
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- 5% acidity
- No artificial colors or flavors
- Do not freeze
- One gallon bottle of Apple Cider Vinegar
- 5% acidity
- No artificial colors or flavors
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