If you’re searching for a timeless, crowd-pleasing side that captures the heart of every backyard picnic and family potluck, look no further than this Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw. Crisp cabbage and carrots tossed in a silky, tangy-sweet dressing create a perfect harmony of crunch and creaminess that instantly transports you to summer gatherings and childhood cookouts. Every bite is a delightful mix of refreshing veggies and nostalgia, making this slaw a true classic you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw lies in its straightforward, everyday ingredients. Nothing fancy—just honest, fresh produce and pantry staples that come together for unmatched flavor, crunch, and the perfect creamy finish.
- Green cabbage: The crisp backbone of your slaw, shredding it finely ensures every bite is the ideal blend of crunch and creaminess.
- Carrots: Their natural sweetness and bright color make the salad pop visually and flavor-wise.
- Onion: A few minced bits add sharpness and depth, balancing the sweetness of the carrots.
- Mayonnaise: Classic and creamy, it binds all the ingredients together for that unmistakable old-fashioned texture.
- Apple cider vinegar: This brings a lively tang to the dressing, perking up all the flavors.
- Dijon mustard: It adds a subtle kick and complexity, elevating the creaminess with just the right amount of zest.
- Sugar: Essential for balancing the vinegar’s tang—add a touch more if you prefer a sweeter slaw!
- Celery seed: These tiny seeds add a traditional, almost peppery flavor that makes coleslaw sing.
- Salt: Just enough to bring out the best in every ingredient and tie the flavors together.
- Black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and makes the dressing irresistibly savory.
How to Make Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Start with shredding your green cabbage and carrots as finely as you like for that classic coleslaw crunch. Place these along with the finely chopped onion into a large mixing bowl. The smaller you shred, the creamier the final salad will be, since the dressing coats every bit more thoroughly.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Dressing
Grab a separate small bowl and whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until it’s completely smooth—no lumps here! Taste the dressing before adding it to the veggies, and adjust for a touch more tang or sweetness, if you like.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the creamy dressing right over the cabbage, carrots, and onions. Using salad tongs or a big spoon, toss gently but thoroughly so every morsel gets generously coated in that dreamy, velvety sauce. You’re aiming for even distribution so every forkful tastes amazing.
Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling time is where the Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw really shines—flavors come together, everything gets crisper, and the salad tastes even better. Don’t skip this step!
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Give your coleslaw a good stir before serving, bringing all that creamy dressing from the bottom back up to coat the veggies. Serve chilled, and just watch how fast it disappears from the table.
How to Serve Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or even a few extra celery seeds on top can make your Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw look as inviting as it tastes. For a little extra zip, a twist of freshly ground black pepper or a dusting of smoked paprika gives it a fun flavor twist without straying from tradition.
Side Dishes
This classic slaw is the ultimate partner for barbecue staples—think ribs, pulled pork, or fried chicken. It’s just as welcome alongside burgers, grilled fish, or veggie sandwiches. Its crispness and creamy tang cut through rich, smoky flavors or anything hot off the grill.
Creative Ways to Present
Try piling your Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw high on sliders or inside pita pockets with roast chicken for an irresistible crunch. Mini jars or colorful bowls also make it perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or party buffets where guests can help themselves. For a party platter, serve in a hollowed-out cabbage for a stunning, edible centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Coleslaw keeps beautifully! Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays crisp and delicious for up to three days, though it’s at its very best within the first 24-48 hours.
Freezing
Unfortunately, creamy coleslaw doesn’t freeze well—the dressing tends to separate, and the veggies lose their satisfying crunch. For best results, make only what you plan to enjoy over several days and store in the fridge.
Reheating
Since coleslaw is meant to be enjoyed cold, reheating isn’t necessary. Just give it a quick stir when you’re ready to serve; if the dressing has loosened up, a small spoonful of extra mayo can bring back the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use bagged coleslaw mix instead of shredding fresh cabbage and carrots?
Absolutely! Bagged coleslaw mix is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw recipe. Just measure out about six cups and follow the same steps for freshness in a flash.
What’s the best way to shred cabbage for coleslaw?
A sharp chef’s knife or mandoline works wonders for thin, even slices. If you prefer a finer shred—perfect for soaking up the creamy dressing—a food processor with a slicing blade will make quick work of the task.
Can I make this slaw dairy-free?
Yes! Simply choose a good-quality dairy-free mayonnaise. The rest of the ingredients in Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw are naturally dairy-free, so you won’t miss a thing.
How can I make the coleslaw even tangier or sweeter?
For more tang, add an extra splash of apple cider vinegar. For more sweetness, sprinkle in another teaspoon or two of sugar, tasting as you go. The recipe is wonderfully flexible, so adjust to please your crowd.
Is it OK to make Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw a day ahead?
Yes, and it’s actually recommended! Letting the slaw chill overnight deepens the flavors and gives everything time to meld together for even tastier results.
Final Thoughts
If you crave a side that’s always welcome at the table, you truly can’t go wrong with Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw. Its perfect blend of sweetness, tang, and irresistible crunch makes every meal brighter. Give it a try for your next gathering—your friends and family will thank you!
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Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw recipe is a classic favorite that’s perfect for picnics or as a side dish. The creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the crisp cabbage and carrots, creating a refreshing and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Coleslaw:
- 6 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cut and Mix Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and chopped onion.
- Make Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Give it a quick stir before serving.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, add an extra splash of vinegar.
- If you prefer a sweeter slaw, increase the sugar slightly.
- This coleslaw is best served cold and can be made up to a day in advance.
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