The crunch of fresh cabbage, the tang of creamy dressing, and a hint of sweetness all come together in a delightful homemade coleslaw recipe that’s sure to impress. colorful Mediterranean Mezze Platter This dish is not just a side; it’s the life of the party, ready to jazz up any barbecue or picnic with its vibrant colors and zesty flavors.

Picture this: a summer cookout, the sun shining, laughter filling the air, and your friends asking for seconds (or thirds) of your signature coleslaw. That’s what this homemade coleslaw brings—a sense of joy and nostalgia that makes every bite memorable. It’s perfect for family gatherings or simply as a refreshing side on a Tuesday night.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This homemade coleslaw recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, even for kitchen novices
- Its flavor profile balances sweetness and tanginess flawlessly
- The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any meal
- You can serve it as a side, topping for tacos, or even in sandwiches for extra crunch!
I remember the first time I made coleslaw from scratch; my family was skeptical at first. But once they took that first bite, their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Green Cabbage: Choose a firm head of green cabbage for the best crunch and flavor.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and vibrant color; shredded ones work perfectly here. perfectly paired Firecracker Kabobs.
- Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayonnaise for creaminess; it really enhances the texture.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar adds tanginess that balances the richness of mayo.
- Sugar: Just a bit of sugar enhances the natural sweetness without overpowering other flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings like salt and pepper elevate the overall taste without stealing the show.
- Optional Add-ins: Consider adding ingredients like diced apples or raisins for an extra twist!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing your cabbage thoroughly under cold water. Cut it into quarters and remove the core before slicing it thinly. Shred your carrots using either a box grater or a food processor for ease.
Create Your Dressing: In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—this is where you can make it uniquely yours!
Toss It All Together: Add your shredded cabbage and carrots into the bowl with the dressing. Using tongs or salad servers, gently toss everything until well coated; you want every piece to be dressed but not overly soggy. For more inspiration, check out this Cucumber Salad Delight recipe.
Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so flavors can meld together beautifully.
Final Touches & Serve!: Just before serving, give your coleslaw another good toss to refresh it. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs or additional toppings if desired.
This homemade coleslaw recipe will have everyone raving about how quickly they devoured it—so be prepared to share! Enjoy every crunchy bite! festive American Flag Fruit Tray.
You Must Know
- This delicious homemade coleslaw recipe comes together quickly and provides a crunchy, fresh contrast to hearty dishes
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners
- Customize with your favorite ingredients for extra flair
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make the best homemade coleslaw, prep your veggies while the dressing chills. Combine cabbage and carrots first, then mix them into the dressing for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding apples, raisins, or nuts for a unique twist on your homemade coleslaw recipe. light and refreshing Shrimp Bowls Experiment with vinegar types or add spices to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating; serve cold for the best texture and taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This homemade coleslaw recipe shines when you use fresh, crisp vegetables
- Don’t skimp on the seasoning—let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving
- Adjust the sweetness and tanginess based on personal preference for a delightful balance
The first time I made this homemade coleslaw recipe, my friends devoured it in minutes! Their requests for seconds made me realize I had created something special. For more inspiration, check out this Vegan Mushroom Meatballs recipe.
FAQ
What is the best cabbage for homemade coleslaw recipe?
Green cabbage is classic, but red cabbage adds color and crunch to your salad.
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness.
How can I make my coleslaw healthier?
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and add more veggies like bell peppers or broccoli.

Homemade Coleslaw
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Homemade coleslaw is the ultimate refreshing side dish that adds crunch and flavor to any meal. With its vibrant mix of fresh cabbage, sweet carrots, and creamy dressing, this coleslaw is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners. Easy to prepare and customizable with optional add-ins like apples or raisins, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and thinly slice the cabbage, removing the core.
- Shred the carrots using a box grater or food processor.
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.
- Add cabbage and carrots to the dressing; toss gently until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg