Coleslaw Recipe

What Ingredients Are Used to Make Coleslaw?

There are so many ways to make coleslaw, but the most common coleslaw ingredients are cabbage and carrots. In this easy coleslaw recipe, I use green shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced red onion. If you want to save time, you can always use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix—just combine it with the creamy coleslaw dressing from this post, and you’re all set!

Here’s a little tip—when you first mix the veggies with the dressing, it might seem like there isn’t enough dressing to coat everything. This is an illusion! 😄 After chilling, the veggies will release moisture, blending with the dressing to make it creamy and packed with so much flavor.

What’s in the Homemade Coleslaw Dressing?

To make coleslaw dressing, you’ll need a few simple dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, whole-grain Dijon mustard, sugar, pepper, and seasoning salt. I prefer whole-grain Dijon mustard because it adds both flavor and a nice look to the coleslaw. If using regular Dijon, you may want to reduce the amount since it's more concentrated.

This combination of dressing ingredients results in a crunchy, zesty coleslaw that’s the perfect balance of flavors!

How to make Coleslaw from Scratch – Overview
The Best Coleslaw Recipe

You can find the full recipe with ingredient amounts in the recipe card at the bottom of this post, but here's a quick overview of how to make the best homemade coleslaw from scratch!

First, whisk together the ingredients for the creamy dressing in a large mixing bowl: mayonnaise, sugar, seasoning salt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and freshly ground black pepper.

Next, thinly slice the red onion, green cabbage, and carrot. Combine the veggies with the creamy dressing, tossing until everything is evenly coated.

For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the best homemade coleslaw chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let it sit for a few hours—this will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

And that’s how you make quick, easy, and delicious homemade coleslaw from scratch!

Recipe Variations

Add-ins:

• For extra crunch, try adding chopped apples, grapes, or celery.
• Add some shredded cheese for a cheesy coleslaw twist.
• If you want a bit of heat, toss in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Make a fruit coleslaw by adding diced pineapple, mango, or oranges.
• For some texture, add toasted nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped peanuts.
• Toss in canned chickpeas or black beans for a boost of protein.
• For a tangy kick, mix in diced pickles or extra cider vinegar, lemon juice, or even celery seed.

Other Veggie Ideas:

• Switch things up by using Napa cabbage, savoy cabbage, or red cabbage instead of the usual green cabbage.
• Add in some chopped celery or sliced red and yellow bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
• Swap out half of the cabbage and try shredded apple for a delicious apple slaw variation.
• If you're in a rush, using pre shredded cabbage or a bag of coleslaw mix makes this even easier.

Different Seasonings:

• Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill add a bright flavor.
• Try spices like curry powder, celery seeds, cumin, or smoked paprika to give your coleslaw a unique twist.

Mayo Alternatives:

• For a creamier texture, replace half the mayonnaise with sour cream in this easy coleslaw dressing recipe.
• You can also use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a high-protein, diet-friendly option.

Alternatives to Sugar:

Instead of white granulated sugar, try using maple syrup, brown sugar, honey, or agave nectar to sweeten your coleslaw dressing naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people put vinegar in coleslaw?

Vinegar adds a tangy balance to the sweetness of the cabbage in coleslaw. I love using apple cider vinegar because it has a milder, more balanced flavor compared to white or red vinegar. It enhances the dressing by adding fruity, tangy, and warm notes, making it a key ingredient in this coleslaw dressing recipe.

How do I keep my homemade coleslaw from getting watery?

If you follow the recipe's ratios, your coleslaw shouldn't get watery, as the cabbage naturally releases moisture over time.

For extra prevention, toss the shredded cabbage with a tablespoon of salt and let it drain in a colander for about an hour. This helps draw out excess moisture, keeping your coleslaw crisp. Alternatively, you can thicken your creamy coleslaw dressing with mayonnaise, sour cream, or Greek yogurt for a heartier texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Coleslaw

One of the best things about coleslaw is that it's a dish that actually improves with time. If you're wondering whether you can make coleslaw ahead of time, the answer is a resounding yes! Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating an even tastier salad.

How to Store Leftover Coleslaw

To store leftover coleslaw, simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. Properly stored, it will stay fresh for 5-6 days. Before serving, give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing, which may have settled at the bottom.

Can You Freeze Coleslaw?

Unfortunately, freezing coleslaw isn't recommended, especially if it's made with a mayonnaise-based dressing. The texture of the cabbage will turn mushy, and the dressing will separate or curdle when thawed. For the best flavor and texture, it's ideal to make coleslaw fresh and enjoy it within a few days of preparation.

What to Serve Coleslaw with?

Homemade coleslaw pairs perfectly with so many dishes! It’s a must-have side at summer picnics, BBQs, or potlucks. I love it as a crunchy topping for pulled pork sandwiches, and it works great with BBQ chicken or grilled fish—basically, anything off the grill.

Coleslaw also adds a nice touch to hot dogs and hamburgers. Plus, its light, tangy flavor balances out rich, heavy dishes like fried chicken, ribs, or fried fish, making it the ideal side for any meal!