Creamy coleslaw is a crunchy, tangy side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, burgers, or fried chicken nights. I love how quick it is to throw together and how well it balances out rich main dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love the crisp texture and the slightly sweet, tangy dressing. It’s cool, creamy, and refreshing—exactly what I want alongside something hot or spicy. It’s also budget-friendly and great for meal prep.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Green cabbage, shredded
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Carrots, shredded
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Mayonnaise
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Apple cider vinegar
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Sugar
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Dijon mustard
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Celery seed (optional)
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Salt and pepper
Directions
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I whisk together mayo, vinegar, sugar, mustard, and seasonings to make the dressing.
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I toss the cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
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I pour the dressing over and mix well to coat.
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I chill the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Serves 6–8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add purple cabbage, green onions, or jalapeños. For a lighter version, I mix in some Greek yogurt.
Storage/Reheating
I store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. I give it a quick stir before serving. It’s not meant to be reheated.
FAQs
Can I use a coleslaw mix?
Yes, I often use bagged mix to save time.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it’s even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Is this too sweet?
I adjust the sugar to taste—I prefer it slightly tangy.
What if I don’t have celery seed?
It’s optional but adds a nice classic touch.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, I use mayo without dairy and skip any yogurt.
Conclusion
Creamy coleslaw is a fresh, simple side that adds crunch and flavor to any meal. I love how easy it is to make and how it pairs with just about everything.
PrintCreamy Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is a crunchy, tangy side dish made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a smooth, slightly sweet mayo-based dressing. It’s the perfect complement to barbecue, burgers, fried chicken, and more—and it’s ready in minutes!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: No-Cook, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp celery seed (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Give it a quick stir before serving chilled.
Notes
- Use pre-shredded coleslaw mix for convenience.
- Add red cabbage, green onions, or jalapeños for extra color and flavor.
- Substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Adjust sugar and vinegar to make it sweeter or tangier.
- Best served chilled; not meant for reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
