Classic Coleslaw
Classic Coleslaw is a bright and crunchy salad that perfectly complements smoky grilled dishes like ribs, burgers, and hot dogs. Featuring fresh green cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing with a hint of sweetness, this easy-to-make side adds refreshing zest and satisfying crunch to any BBQ plate. Make ahead for enhanced flavor and enjoy a versatile crowd-pleaser that will elevate your backyard cookouts.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Prep the Vegetables: Finely shred the green cabbage and peel, then grate the carrots to ensure each bite is perfectly crunchy and balanced.
- Whisk the Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Toss and Combine: Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
- Chill and Marinate: Cover your coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the cabbage to soften just right.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure evenly shredded cabbage for consistent texture.
- Drain excess moisture by salting the shredded cabbage and letting it sit briefly, then squeeze gently to avoid watery slaw.
- Adjust vinegar and sugar to balance acidity and sweetness according to your taste.
- This coleslaw tastes best when made a few hours to a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled to maintain freshness and crispness, especially on hot BBQ days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: Classic coleslaw, BBQ side dish, coleslaw recipe, creamy coleslaw, summer salad, picnic side dish, no-cook salad, gluten free side