Description
Light & Creamy Coleslaw
This Light & Creamy Coleslaw is refreshing and easy to make. Perfect as a side for summer meals, it’s packed with cabbage, carrots, and a flavorful dressing.
Give it a try!
Ingredients:
1 medium cabbage, finely chopped
1 carrot, grated
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Mix mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Add cabbage and carrot, stirring until well mixed.
Chill and serve alongside your favorite dish.
#CreamyColeslaw
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect coleslaw every time.
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely shred one medium head of green cabbage using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor. Grate one large carrot using the large holes of a box grater. Place both in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a separate, smaller bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Whisk vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Season: Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper to the dressing. Whisk again to incorporate.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, toss everything together until every shred of vegetable is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally 2-3 hours, to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- Final Adjustments: Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss. Taste and adjust seasoning with an extra pinch of salt or pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile coleslaw pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. Serve it as the classic side to pulled pork sandwiches, grilled burgers, or hot dogs at a summer barbecue. It’s also excellent alongside fried chicken, fish tacos, or as a crunchy topping for a pulled pork sandwich itself. For a lighter meal, serve a generous scoop on the side of a quiche or a simple grilled chicken breast.
How-to Summary
Shred cabbage and grate carrot. Whisk mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper into a dressing. Toss vegetables with dressing until coated. Chill for 1-3 hours before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely. Making it a day in advance is recommended, as the chilling time allows the flavors to deepen and the cabbage to become more tender.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
For a lighter version, you can substitute half or all of the mayo with Greek yogurt or sour cream. The flavor will be tangier but still delicious.
How long will leftover coleslaw keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. It may become slightly more watery over time; just give it a stir before serving.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Thinly sliced red onion, bell peppers, or even a handful of raisins or dried cranberries are popular additions for extra color and flavor.
My coleslaw is too watery. How can I fix this?
After shredding the cabbage, toss it with 1 teaspoon of salt and let it sit in a colander for 30 minutes. Rinse and thoroughly pat dry with paper towels before mixing with the dressing. This draws out excess moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not chilling before serving: Skipping the chill time means the flavors won’t have blended, and the texture will be too crunchy.
- Over-dressing: Start with 3/4 of the dressing, toss, and add more only if needed. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
- Cutting the vegetables too thick: Large, thick pieces of cabbage won’t absorb the dressing well and will be difficult to eat. Aim for thin, uniform shreds.
- Not seasoning the dressing adequately: Taste your dressing before adding it to the vegetables. It should have a balanced sweet, tangy, and savory flavor.
Conclusion
This Light & Creamy Coleslaw is more than just a simple side dish; it’s a testament to how a few fresh ingredients and a perfectly balanced dressing can create something truly refreshing and satisfying. Its crisp texture and tangy creaminess make it an indispensable addition to any picnic, potluck, or weeknight dinner. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily master this classic recipe and adapt it to your personal taste. Give it a try—it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
