Creamy Classic Coleslaw

A timeless side dish combining crunchy cabbage and carrot dressed in a tangy, creamy mayonnaise-based sauce—perfect for picnics, barbecues, or sandwiches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp and colorful with both green and purple cabbage, plus carrot for sweetness and texture My Homemade Roots+1Fed & Fit+1The Guardian+4Spend With Pennies+4Love and Lemons+4

• A balance of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors keeps it light and refreshing The GuardianLove and LemonsInspired Taste

• Easy to prepare ahead—flavors meld beautifully with time in the fridge Love and Lemons+1Jo Cooks+1

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• shredded green cabbage

• shredded red or purple cabbage

• shredded carrot

• mayonnaise

• apple cider vinegar (or seasoned rice wine vinegar)

• Dijon mustard (optional)

• sugar or maple syrup (for sweetness)

• celery seeds (optional)

• salt and freshly ground black pepper

directions

1. Finely shred the cabbages and carrot (using a knife, mandoline, or food processor), then transfer to a large bowl. If using any water-rich vegetables, sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit to draw out moisture before draining and patting dry Allrecipes+10Love and Lemons+10Ask Chef Dennis+10Food.com+6The Guardian+6Ask Chef Dennis+6Spend With Pennies+1Epicurious+1Simply Recipes+5Allrecipes+5Love and Lemons+5Epicurious+1Love and Lemons+1.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard (if using), sugar or maple syrup, celery seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth Allrecipes+15Love and Lemons+15Gimme Some Oven+15.

3. Pour dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss to coat evenly.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more vinegar, mustard, or sweetener if needed.

5. Chill at least one hour before serving (overnight yields best results).

Servings and timing

Serves about 6 as a side.
Prep time: ~30 minutes (including shredding and mixing).
Chill time: at least 1 hour; ideal to prepare 1–2 hours ahead Spend With PenniesThe Guardian.

Variations

• Add finely chopped dill pickles or sweet pickle juice for extra tang—as in Dolly Parton’s classic version Simply Recipes

• Substitute up to half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version Bon Appétit

• Stir in scallions, parsley, herbs, or even fruit like julienned apple or mango for added flavor and variety Jo Cooks+11The Guardian+11Allrecipes+11

storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–5 days.

• Drain excess liquid that may collect after a day or two and stir in a bit of fresh mayonnaise if needed.

• Do not freeze (mayonnaise-based slaws do not freeze well) Serious Eats+2Spend With Pennies+2The Guardian+2.

FAQs

What is the best cabbage to use for coleslaw?

Use a combination of green and purple cabbage for color and texture; finely shredded or julienned yields the best crunch.

Can I make the slaw vegan or lighter?

Yes—use vegan mayonnaise or replace part with Greek yogurt or sour cream.

How sweet should the dressing be?

Start with one to two tablespoons of sugar or maple syrup and adjust to taste.

Do I have to refrigerate before serving?

Yes—letting the slaw sit for at least an hour helps the flavors develop and softens the veggies slightly.

Why does my coleslaw get watery?

Water-rich vegetables can release moisture over time—salting before mixing or draining excess liquid helps keep it crisp Bon AppétitThe Guardian+1Simply Recipes+1.

Can I add pickles?

Absolutely—chopped dill pickles or a splash of pickle juice adds tang and sweetness, famously used in Dolly Parton’s version Simply Recipes+1Epicurious+1.

Is it okay to use bagged coleslaw mix?

Yes—pre-shredded bag mixes work fine and save time, though fresh gives better texture Spend With PenniesSimply Recipes.

Can I prep ahead for a party?

Definitely—make up to a day in advance; keep chilled and stir before serving.

What side dishes pair well with this slaw?

This salad complements barbecue, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, grilled meats, or picnic fare Bon Appétit.

Does it freeze well?

No—creamy coleslaw does not freeze well and loses its texture upon thawing.

Conclusion

This classic creamy coleslaw recipe offers a perfect blend of crunch, tang, and creaminess in every bite. Versatile, easy to prepare in advance, and endlessly customizable, it remains a crowd‑pleasing side for any gathering, from backyard barbecues to casual lunch spreads.

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