This Easy Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw is perfect for summer picnics! With crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing, it’s a tasty side dish that pairs well with just about anything.
Making this coleslaw is super simple—I just mix everything in one bowl, and voilà! It’s fresh, colorful, and always a hit. You might even find yourself sneaking extra bites when no one is looking! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Using both green and purple cabbage adds color and crunch. If you’re out of purple cabbage, you can use extra green cabbage or even Napa cabbage for a different texture.
Carrots: Fresh carrots are key for sweetness and crunch. If you have pre-shredded carrots, they work just as well. You can also substitute with grated apples for a fruity twist!
Mayonnaise: Traditional coleslaw dressing often uses mayo, but Greek yogurt can be a healthy substitute. It still gives creaminess while cutting down on calories.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds the tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can be used, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Honey: For sweetness, honey is great, but if you’re vegan, agave nectar or maple syrup can work nicely instead!
How Do I Get My Coleslaw Crispy and Fresh?
To ensure your coleslaw has that fresh crunch, there are a couple of tricks to keep in mind:
- Shred your cabbage and carrots just before mixing them with the dressing so they stay crisp.
- Salting the cabbage lightly and letting it sit for 10-15 minutes can help draw out excess moisture, making your coleslaw less watery.
- For the best flavors, allow the coleslaw to sit in the fridge for about an hour. This lets the vegetables soak up the dressing without becoming soggy.
Easy Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 1 small head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 4 cups)
- 1/2 small head purple cabbage, finely shredded (about 2 cups)
- 2 medium carrots, julienned or shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This coleslaw takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. Be sure to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour so the flavors can blend beautifully. Total time including chill: about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by finely shredding the green and purple cabbage. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor for quick and easy chopping. Then, julienne or shred the two medium carrots. Finally, chop the fresh parsley. Combine all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), Dijon mustard, celery seed (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is smooth and well combined. You can adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar based on your taste preference!
3. Combine the Coleslaw:
Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage mixture and toss everything together. Make sure all the veggies are well coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens—each bite will be bursting with flavor!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw into a sealed container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to get nice and chilled. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and enjoy as a refreshing side dish for barbecues or sandwiches!
Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, and enjoy your homemade coleslaw! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
FAQ about Easy Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Coleslaw Mix?
Absolutely! Using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix can save you time. Just toss it with the dressing as you would fresh cabbage and carrots, and you’ll have a quick and easy side dish!
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this coleslaw vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or use tahini for a delicious nutty flavor. You can also replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness.
Can I Prepare Coleslaw in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this coleslaw a day ahead! Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. It may lose some crunch, so if you want it extra crisp, consider adding the dressing just before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Coleslaw?
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some liquid may accumulate at the bottom.
Enjoy your coleslaw and these helpful tips to make it even better!
