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Homemade Creamy Coleslaw

Summer is all about salads and crunchy, colorful coleslaw is a summer favorite.  Making coleslaw at home is so easy there really is no reason to buy prepared coleslaw from the store.

This is my easy homemade coleslaw recipe.

Making Homemade Coleslaw

Making coleslaw at home is easy to do.

Starting with bagged coleslaw mix for the easiest coleslaw preparation. Coleslaw mixes vary from store to store and brand to brand.  Some will be more finely shredded than others. Some will contain more carrots than others.  Some will be more colorful than others.  Purchase the brand you prefer, or shred the cabbage and carrots yourself. 

Tips for Cole Slaw Success

Don't add any liquid to your coleslaw. Your cabbage will become less crunchy and the coleslaw will become more watery the longer it sits. Keep this in mind when assembling your salad.

Coleslaw reduces in volume as the dressing wilts the cabbage.  One package of coleslaw mix will usually serve four to six adults.

Taste as you go. You'll want to taste the dressing mix to adjust it to your taste.  You may want to add a little more apple cider vinegar if you like more tanginess in your coleslaw.  If you want your coleslaw a little sweeter, add more sugar.  My recipe is not too sweet.  

Celery seed is key. I use celery seeds to season my coleslaw.  1 1/2 teaspoons of celery seeds are just right for my taste. I suggest you start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust for your taste.

Other Ways to Customize Coleslaw

When it comes to customizing coleslaw, the possibilities are endless. If you like to experiment, try these variations.

Use different types of cabbage, such as red cabbage or savoy cabbage, to bring vibrant colors and unique flavors to your coleslaw. 

Experiment with various vegetables or fruits like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even thinly sliced apples for added crunch and sweetness. 

Consider alternative dressing ingredients like Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy and creamy base, or add a touch of heat with a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. 

To increase the salad's texture, you can toss in toasted nuts, such as almonds or pecans, or even sprinkle in some crispy bacon bits. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Coleslaw

Why is my coleslaw watery?
The vinegar and salt in your coleslaw dressing will wilt the cabbage and draw out the natural moisture.  The more of each ingredient you use the faster it will happen.  Some recipes suggest adding a little milk or water to the dressing to thin it out a bit.  I recommend you don't do that.  Just stir the salad before serving.

The more time that elapses between when you prepare your coleslaw and when you serve it, the more wateriness you can expect.  Make your salad about one to three hours before serving.  You can make your dressing in advance and keep it chilled in your refrigerator until it is time to combine it with the coleslaw mix. Just give your coleslaw a good stir before serving to combine the moisture into the dressing.

Can I substitute granulated sugar for powdered sugar?  
Yes.  Start with one tablespoon and taste.  Be sure to still well so the sugar dissolves into the dressing.

What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
You can use white vinegar, lemon juice, or a combination of both instead of apple cider vinegar.  I prefer apple cider vinegar.

Can I make coleslaw low carb?
You can make coleslaw lower in carbs by substituting the sugar with a sugar substitute.  You'll also want to use low-carb mayonnaise.

Watch My Coleslaw Video


What to Serve with Coleslaw

Cole Slaw Recipe

summer salads, creamy coleslaw, cabbage salad
side dish
American
Yield: 6
Author: Donna Urso
Creamy Coleslaw

Creamy Coleslaw

Prep time: 5 MinTotal time: 5 Min
A crunchy, creamy, homemade coleslaw recipe.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, celery seeds, sugar, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl or jar. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings to your taste.
  2. One- three hours before serving, pour dressing over the coleslaw mix and toss to combine well.
  3. Chill. Stir before serving.

Notes

The cabbage will become less crunchy and the coleslaw will become more watery the longer it sits. Keep this in mind when assembling your salad.


Nutrition Facts

Calories

216.56

Fat (grams)

21.1

Sat. Fat (grams)

3.31

Carbs (grams)

6.16

Fiber (grams)

1.69

Net carbs

4.46

Sugar (grams)

4.25

Protein (grams)

1.18

Sodium (milligrams)

222.71

Cholesterol (grams)

11.76

Nutritional information is approximate.

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