Coleslaw is a simple and tasty salad. It is great for dinners or picnics. This recipe is easy to make. You do not need many ingredients. It uses fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing. You can make it in just 15 minutes. Let’s learn how to make this delicious coleslaw.
What is Coleslaw?
Coleslaw is a salad made mainly from cabbage and carrots. It is mixed with a creamy sauce. The sauce is usually made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar. Some people add onions or other vegetables. Coleslaw is crunchy and fresh. It tastes good with many dishes like barbecue, sandwiches, or fried chicken.
Ingredients You Need
Here is a list of simple ingredients for easy coleslaw:
Green cabbage: Finely shredded, about 4 cups
Carrots: Shredded, about 1 cup
Red cabbage (optional): Adds color and flavor, 1 cup shredded
Onion (optional): Thinly sliced, 1 small onion
Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup for creamy dressing
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons
Sugar: 1 tablespoon to balance flavor
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon for freshness
Salt and black pepper: To taste
Why These Ingredients?
The cabbage gives the salad crunch. Carrots add sweetness and color. Mayonnaise makes the salad creamy. Vinegar adds a little tang or sour taste. Sugar balances the sourness. Lemon juice gives fresh flavor. Salt and pepper make the taste better. All these ingredients work well together.
Step-by-Step Easy Coleslaw Recipe
Follow these simple steps to make your coleslaw:
Prepare the vegetables: Wash the cabbage and carrots well. Shred the green cabbage and red cabbage if you use it. Peel and shred the carrots. Slice the onion thinly if you want to add it.
Mix the vegetables: Put the shredded cabbage, carrots, and onion in a big bowl. Toss them well to mix.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth.
Season the dressing: Add salt and black pepper to the dressing. Stir again.
Combine dressing and vegetables: Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables. Use a big spoon to toss everything together well.
Rest the coleslaw: Let the coleslaw sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors come together.
Serve: Take the coleslaw out of the fridge and serve it fresh and cold.
Tips for Best Coleslaw
Do not add too much vinegar. It can make the salad too sour.
Use fresh vegetables. They give the best crunch and taste.
Shred cabbage finely. It mixes better with the dressing.
Salt the cabbage and carrots. Let them rest 5 minutes to remove extra water. Then drain well.
Try adding celery seed. It gives a classic flavor.
Coleslaw tastes better the next day. The flavors get stronger.
Coleslaw Dressing Variations
You can change the dressing to suit your taste. Here are some easy ideas:
Dressing Type
Ingredients
Taste
Creamy Classic
Mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, lemon juice
Rich, tangy, sweet
Light and Tangy
Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey
Light, fresh, less sweet
Mustard Coleslaw
Mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, wholegrain mustard
Slightly spicy, tangy
Vegan Dressing
Vegan mayo, lemon juice, maple syrup
Sweet, creamy, dairy-free
Serving Ideas
Coleslaw is a perfect side dish. It goes well with many meals. Here are some ideas:
Serve with grilled chicken or fish.
Put it on sandwiches or burgers.
Eat it with barbecue ribs or pulled pork.
Use it as a fresh side for fried foods.
Add it to picnic lunches or potlucks.
Why Make Coleslaw at Home?
You control the ingredients and flavors.
It is cheaper than store-bought coleslaw.
You avoid preservatives and extra sugar.
It is fresh and healthy.
Easy to make with simple kitchen tools.
Summary
This easy coleslaw recipe is quick and delicious. It uses fresh cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. You can add onions or red cabbage for color. The dressing is simple with mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, and sugar. Mix all ingredients and let the salad rest. Enjoy cold with your favorite meals.
Try this recipe today. It will bring a fresh crunch to your table. Perfect for family dinners or outdoor meals. You will like how easy and tasty it is.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Make Homemade Coleslaw Simple?
To make homemade coleslaw simple, chop cabbage and carrots. Mix mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss vegetables with dressing. Chill before serving for best flavor.
What’s The Secret To A Good Coleslaw?
The secret to good coleslaw is salting cabbage and carrots briefly to remove excess moisture. Use a creamy dressing with mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar. Toss just before serving to keep it crunchy and flavorful. Balance tanginess and sweetness for perfect taste every time.
What Are The Traditional Ingredients In Coleslaw?
Traditional coleslaw includes shredded green and red cabbage, shredded carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed for flavor.
Why Is Kfc’s Coleslaw So Good?
KFC’s coleslaw tastes great due to its perfect blend of finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and creamy, tangy dressing. The secret lies in balancing mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a hint of seasoning, creating a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful side that complements their menu perfectly.
