# Coleslaw: A Timeless Accompaniment for Any Event
Coleslaw is a beloved side for gatherings or barbecues, and it can be prepared in advance with ease! In this coleslaw recipe, crunchy and vibrant shredded cabbage is mixed with a very straightforward creamy dressing that has a touch of sweetness. With some cabbage (or coleslaw mix) and a handful of essential ingredients, this will become a staple side for nearly any event.
## An Iconic Coleslaw Recipe
This is the ultimate coleslaw recipe, ideal for celebrations and summer potlucks, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
– You’ll need just a **few ingredients**, most of which you probably already have.
– Utilize green and red cabbage or coleslaw mix for added convenience.
– The creamy coleslaw dressing is ready in **just 2 minutes**.
– It’s perfect for gatherings since it is best when **prepared in advance**.
## Ingredients
**BASE:** We combine regular green cabbage, a little bit of red (or purple) cabbage, and shredded carrots. You can substitute this with a bag of coleslaw mix, but feel free to try any “slaw” available at your grocery store.
**DRESSING:** Homemade coleslaw is fantastic due to the zesty creamy dressing. If you’re pressed for time (or ingredients), you can opt for store-bought dressing; a tangy and sweet variety is recommended.
## How to Prepare Coleslaw
Vibrant coleslaw can be prepared in no time! Just follow these 3 simple steps for the perfect creamy side dish.
1. **Shred Cabbage:** Finely shred the cabbage with a mandoline, a food processor, or thinly slice it with a knife. For carrots, I prefer to grate them using the larger side of a box grater.
2. **Prepare Dressing:** In a large bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients (as per the recipe below).
3. **Combine & Chill:** Mix the cabbage and carrots with the dressing and stir until well combined. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
## Variations
– Replace the cabbage with pre-shredded cabbage or slaw mix from the produce aisle of your grocery store.
– Chop an apple finely (toss it with a bit of lemon juice) to create a [Creamy Apple Slaw Recipe](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/apple-slaw-recipe/).
– Use the creamy dressing from the recipe below or the vinaigrette option noted.
– To lighten this dish, substitute yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise.
## How to Create Coleslaw Dressing
The creamy dressing for this straightforward coleslaw recipe is homemade and takes around 2 minutes to prepare. It’s absolutely delicious!
**What’s Included in Coleslaw Dressing?** This coleslaw recipe features mayonnaise as a base for a creamy slaw (my preferred type), but I’ve also noted a vinaigrette-based dressing.
Mayonnaise provides a creamy consistency, while the vinegar contributes a slight tanginess. The minimal sugar helps to balance the dressing. Be sure to **include the celery seed**; it adds significant flavor to this dish. This dressing is excellent on coleslaw, but it also works wonderfully on [broccoli salad](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/broccoli-salad/). Mix the dressing thoroughly before adding it to the cabbage mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
## Holly’s Suggestions
– Don’t omit the celery seed; it enhances flavor in this traditional coleslaw recipe.
– Whisk the dressing in a large bowl (rather than a small one) and toss in the cabbage to combine—fewer dishes to clean!
– Coleslaw tastes best after being chilled for at least a few hours.
– When serving at a potluck or summer gathering, make sure the slaw isn’t left out in the heat. Place the slaw bowl in a large bowl filled with ice to maintain its chill.
## Ideal Pairings for Coleslaw
While KFC coleslaw pairs wonderfully with chicken, we find this fresh and crunchy version even more appealing. It complements any type of barbecue dish beautifully.
## Storage Instructions
Keep this coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. After a couple of days, it might release some liquid; drain it off (and add a slight amount of mayonnaise if necessary).
Regrettably, coleslaw made with a mayonnaise base does not freeze well.
## More Simple Side Dishes You’ll Enjoy
Did you try this Coleslaw recipe? Please leave us a rating and a comment below!