If you’re looking for a fresh, crunchy, and utterly satisfying side, this Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and vibrant parsley all coated in a luscious, tangy dressing that’s creamy without being heavy. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or just craving something bright and refreshing, this coleslaw strikes the perfect balance between simple ingredients and bold flavor. It’s effortless to prepare yet delivers that homemade touch that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and accessible, each playing a crucial role in making this coleslaw pop with flavor and texture. From the crunch of fresh cabbage to the zing from apple cider vinegar, every element is essential to the success of this recipe.
- 1 medium cabbage (about 2 pounds): The star of the show, providing that classic crunchy base.
- 3 medium carrots: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, herbaceous touch that brightens the whole dish.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy backbone that ties all ingredients deliciously together.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy punch that balances the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle depth and slight heat to the dressing.
- Celery seeds, salt, and pepper: These spices enhance the flavor with a nuanced, aromatic finish.
How to Make Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Shred the Cabbage
Start by quartering your cabbage and carefully removing the tough core. Then finely shred each quarter so you have delicate, thin strips. This shredding is crucial because it ensures every bite stays light and crisp, giving the coleslaw that perfect texture.
Step 2: Combine Carrots and Parsley
Grate the carrots and chop the fresh parsley, then add them to the bowl with shredded cabbage. Toss everything gently to mix. This step spreads the sweet crunch of carrots and the herbaceous zing of parsley throughout your slaw.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go—this dressing is where you can expertly balance tanginess and creaminess to your liking.
Step 4: Toss the Coleslaw with Dressing
Pour about two-thirds of your dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat every shred. If it looks a little dry, drizzle in more dressing bit by bit until you reach your desired creaminess. This way, you control the perfect consistency.
Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can enjoy this Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe right away for a crisp and fresh experience, or refrigerate it for an hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing that rich, tangy creaminess even further.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of celery seeds sprinkled on top add a lovely pop of color and a hint of herbal aroma, making your coleslaw not only taste amazing but look irresistible on the plate.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats like ribs or chicken, sandwiches, burgers, or even as a crunchy topping for tacos. It brings a refreshing contrast to smoky, savory, or spicy dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your coleslaw in mini mason jars for picnics or gatherings, or spoon it into crunchy lettuce cups for a fun twist. You can also add toasted nuts or seeds for an unexpected crunch that elevates the texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead side to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
Because of its fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, this coleslaw does not freeze well. The texture of the cabbage and carrots will become soggy upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.
Reheating
Coleslaw is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary and can spoil its crisp texture. If you want it slightly warmer, let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a pre-packaged coleslaw mix for this Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe?
Absolutely! Using a pre-shredded coleslaw mix can save you time, but be sure to add fresh parsley to maintain that fresh herbaceous flavor that really sets this recipe apart.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise with a healthier option?
Yes, you can try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative to lighten the dish while keeping the creamy texture, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the coleslaw before serving?
Refrigerating allows the flavors to marry and the dressing to soak into the cabbage, making the coleslaw taste even better, but it’s perfectly fine to serve it right after mixing if you’re in a hurry.
Can I add other vegetables to the coleslaw?
Definitely! Thinly sliced red onion, bell peppers, or even chopped apple can add exciting texture and sweetness. Just be careful not to overpower the classic flavors.
How long does this Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe stay fresh in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, your coleslaw will stay crisp and tasty for about three days. Beyond that, the vegetables may start to lose their crunch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a bowl of well-made coleslaw, and this Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe captures all that joy with minimal fuss. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and tangy that complements countless meals. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite go-to side dish!
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Easy Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Creamy Coleslaw recipe is a classic side dish featuring finely shredded cabbage and carrots, fresh parsley, and a tangy, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Perfect served fresh or chilled, this coleslaw offers a crisp, refreshing complement to grilled dishes, sandwiches, or picnics.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium cabbage (about 2 pounds)
- 3 medium carrots
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Quarter the cabbage and remove the core from each piece. Finely shred the cabbage quarters and place them into a large mixing bowl to create the base of your coleslaw.
- Add Carrots and Parsley: Peel and shred the carrots, then chop the fresh parsley. Add both to the cabbage in the mixing bowl and toss gently to combine all the vegetables uniformly.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed to balance the tanginess and creaminess.
- Combine Dressing with Vegetables: Pour two-thirds of the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything thoroughly until the vegetables are well coated. If you prefer a creamier coleslaw, add the remaining dressing gradually and toss again.
- Chill and Serve: You can serve the coleslaw immediately for a crisp texture or refrigerate it for about an hour to let the flavors meld and vegetables soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste.
Notes
- For best results, shred the cabbage finely to ensure a tender texture.
- Adjust celery seeds and mustard quantities based on personal flavor preference.
- This coleslaw is best consumed within 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Adding a little sugar or honey can balance acidity if desired.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
