Name: Classic coleslaw recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small head cabbage, finely shredded; 2 large carrots, grated; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon celery seed; to taste salt and pepper

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Classic coleslaw is one of those quintessential American side dishes that effortlessly captures the essence of summer barbecues and potlucks. With its juicy crunch and creamy texture, this dish combines finely shredded cabbage and freshly grated carrots enveloped in a rich, tangy dressing that peps up any meal. It’s an irresistible addition that not only brightens your plate but also tickles your taste buds with every bite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Classic coleslaw recipes
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Classic coleslaw recipes

I first discovered the delight of classic coleslaw at a family gathering, where it effortlessly stole the show among the spread of fried chicken and baked beans. My aunt’s recipe was simple yet vibrant, showcasing how basic ingredients can create something truly unforgettable. Every forkful reminded me of summer days, laughter, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. This classic coleslaw recipe brings that same feeling to your kitchen, making it a dependable crowd-pleaser that’s easy, budget-friendly, and simply delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip up this coleslaw in just 15 minutes, with minimal fuss!
Irresistible Flavor: Creamy and tangy with a delightful crunch; it’s a perfect balance for the senses.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of cabbage and carrots make this dish pop on any plate.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, or a casual dinner at home.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to suit gluten-free or vegan diets by substituting the mayo.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 small head green cabbage, finely shredded: Green cabbage offers a classic taste and crunch; ensure you remove any tough outer leaves for the freshest flavor.
2 large carrots, grated: Freshly grated yields the best flavor and texture; choose firm carrots for crispness.
½ cup high-quality mayonnaise: Look for a rich, creamy mayonnaise to elevate your dressing; this binds everything beautifully.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity; you can switch to white wine vinegar if you prefer a brighter flavor.
2 tablespoons sugar: Sweetness balances the tang; adjust the amount to suit your preference.
1 teaspoon celery seed: An essential component for that authentic coleslaw taste—don’t skip this!
Salt and pepper: Use these to enhance flavors—add to your taste.

How to Make Classic coleslaw recipes

Shred Cabbage: Start by removing any tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Finely shred the remaining part, ensuring that you have a nice pile of crisp, vibrant cabbage that will serve as the base of your coleslaw.

Grate Carrots: Peel and grate the 2 large carrots. Their natural sweetness and color will not only enhance the flavor but will also make your salad visually appealing. Combine both the cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl.

Whisk Dressing: In a separate bowl, take ½ cup of high-quality mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of celery seed. Whisk these ingredients together until completely smooth. This dressing is key to the coleslaw’s rich and tangy flavor, so make sure everything is well-blended.

Season Your Dressing: Taste your dressing mix and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer it a little sweeter, add more sugar. For a burst of brightness, don’t hesitate to include an additional teaspoon of vinegar.

Combine Ingredients: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Toss everything thoroughly, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy and flavorful finish.

Chill the Coleslaw: Cover your mixing bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your coleslaw. The chilling also helps the texture firm up slightly for a crunchier bite.

Storing & Reheating

For best storage, keep your classic coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to one week if properly stored. If you’re planning to enjoy leftovers beyond this period, you can freeze the coleslaw for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Keep in mind that the texture may soften, so it’s best to enjoy fresh coleslaw to savor its crunch. If needed, you can refresh it with a bit of fresh dressing before serving.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be careful not to overgrate the carrots; this can make them mushy. Aim for a balance between fine and coarse shreds for the best texture.
For extra crunch, let the shredded cabbage sit with a sprinkle of salt for about 10 minutes before mixing it with dressing. This draws out moisture and makes for a crisper salad.
Use chilled mayonnaise for a refreshing dressing that keeps your coleslaw cool and crispy.
If you’re making it a day ahead, hold off on adding the dressing until just before serving to maintain that perfect crunch.
Experiment with additional ingredients like diced apples or raisins for a hint of sweetness!

Classic coleslaw is one of those dishes that seamlessly fits into various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The joy of making it lies in seeing how simple ingredients come together to create something delightful. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors; you can always tweak the dressing or add extra veggies to suit your palate.

Whether you’re sitting down to a backyard barbecue or a cozy lunch with friends, classic coleslaw is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and let the vibrant colors and fresh flavors remind you of sunshine and good company!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make coleslaw in advance?

Absolutely! Coleslaw can be made a day ahead. Just remember not to add the dressing until an hour before serving to ensure crispness.

How long does coleslaw last in the fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, classic coleslaw can last for about a week in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before serving.

Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Certainly! While green cabbage is traditional, you can mix in red cabbage or napa cabbage for a unique flavor and beautiful color.

What should I do if my coleslaw is too sweet?

If your classic coleslaw is too sweet for your liking, simply add a splash more vinegar or a little salt to balance it out and enhance the flavors.

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