Best Cabbage Coleslaw

Featured in: Simple Savory Ideas

This crisp and refreshing slaw combines green and red cabbage with grated carrots for vibrant color and crunch. The creamy dressing features mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard for perfect tangy balance. A touch of honey or sugar adds subtle sweetness that complements the savory notes.

Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this versatile side dish gets even better after chilling. The flavors meld beautifully in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prep or making ahead for gatherings.

Enjoy alongside grilled meats, pile onto pulled pork sandwiches, or serve as a fresh topping for fish tacos. The classic pairing of mayonnaise-based dressing with crisp vegetables creates the perfect contrast of textures for any summer meal.

Updated on Mon, 26 Jan 2026 18:14:51 GMT
Vibrant bowl of Best Cabbage Coleslaw with creamy dressing, freshly tossed shredded cabbage and carrots. Save
Vibrant bowl of Best Cabbage Coleslaw with creamy dressing, freshly tossed shredded cabbage and carrots. | buenojben.com

Bring a burst of freshness to your table with this Best Cabbage Coleslaw. A crisp and refreshing side dish, it features finely shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity. It is an easy, vibrant addition to any meal.

Vibrant bowl of Best Cabbage Coleslaw with creamy dressing, freshly tossed shredded cabbage and carrots. Save
Vibrant bowl of Best Cabbage Coleslaw with creamy dressing, freshly tossed shredded cabbage and carrots. | buenojben.com

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This American classic is a staple for outdoor gatherings. Whether you are prepping for a weekend barbecue, a quick sandwich lunch, or a family picnic, this coleslaw provides the perfect crunch and cooling contrast to your main course.

Ingredients

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  • 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded (optional, for color)
  • 1 cup carrots, grated
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and green onions.
2
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat evenly.
4
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5
Serve chilled as a side dish or topping.

Zusatztipps fΓΌr die Zubereitung

To make the preparation process efficient, use a sharp chef's knife and cutting board for the cabbage and a grater for the carrots. Chilling the slaw for at least 30 minutes is highly recommended; it allows the dressing to permeate the vegetables, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish. Each serving contains approximately 130 calories.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based mayonnaise and swap the honey for maple syrup. You can also experiment with extra texture by adding chopped apples, raisins, or sunflower seeds for added crunch and sweetness.

ServiervorschlΓ€ge

This versatile slaw pairs excellently with grilled meats, pulled pork sandwiches, or as a refreshing topping for fish tacos. It adds the perfect amount of zing and crunch to balance rich or spicy flavors.

A close-up of Best Cabbage Coleslaw, crisp green and red cabbage with grated carrots. Save
A close-up of Best Cabbage Coleslaw, crisp green and red cabbage with grated carrots. | buenojben.com

Enjoy this simple yet delicious Best Cabbage Coleslaw. It is a reliable, easy-to-make side dish that brings a vibrant and refreshing element to any plate.

Recipe FAQs

β†’ How long does homemade coleslaw stay fresh?

Homemade coleslaw stays fresh for 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cabbage remains crisp and the flavors continue to develop over time, often tasting even better on the second or third day.

β†’ Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, making this ahead is recommended. Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together. It can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, though the texture will become more tender as it sits.

β†’ What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt makes an excellent lighter substitute when swapped for half the mayonnaise. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based mayonnaise or create a vinaigrette with olive oil and vinegar instead of the creamy dressing base.

β†’ How do I shred cabbage for coleslaw?

Use a sharp chef's knife to thinly slice the cabbage, or use a mandoline slicer for uniform strands. A food processor with the shredding attachment also works well for processing large quantities quickly and efficiently.

β†’ Can I add other vegetables to this slaw?

Absolutely. Consider adding bell peppers, radishes, jicama, or broccoli slaw mix for extra crunch and variety. Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts or kale also work well for a nutritious twist on the classic combination.

β†’ Is coleslaw gluten-free?

This version is naturally gluten-free when using standard mayonnaise and mustard. Always check labels on prepared ingredients like Dijon mustard and mayonnaise to ensure no gluten-containing additives have been included during manufacturing.

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Best Cabbage Coleslaw

Crisp cabbage and carrots in creamy tangy dressing. Ready in 15 minutes.

Prep Time
15 min
0
Overall Time
15 min
Creator Patrick Owens


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 6 Portions

Diet Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly, No Gluten

What You Need

Vegetables

01 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
02 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
03 1 cup carrots, grated
04 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Dressing

01 1/2 cup mayonnaise
02 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
03 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
04 1 tablespoon honey
05 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
06 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How-To Steps

Step 01

Prepare Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrots, and thinly sliced green onions.

Step 02

Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, celery seed, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 03

Combine and Coat: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 04

Season and Chill: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to develop flavors.

Step 05

Serve: Serve chilled as a side dish or topping for sandwiches and grilled entrees.

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Tools Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Box grater or microplane

Allergy Information

Review all components and consult a medical professional with concerns.
  • Contains eggs (mayonnaise) and mustard seeds
  • Use vegan mayonnaise for egg-free preparation
  • Always verify ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination with common allergens

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Only use these numbers as a general guide. Please check with your health expert.
  • Energy: 130
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Proteins: 2 g

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