What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This coleslaw dressing recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a fresh, zesty twist to their salads. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to whip up, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s super versatile—it’s not just for coleslaw! It’s customizable, so you can tweak it to your taste, and it’s healthier than store-bought versions, without any weird additives. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to make your dishes shine at any gathering.
Recipe
Homemade coleslaw dressing is a simple, creamy, and tangy addition to any salad, perfect for enhancing the flavor of fresh shredded cabbage and vegetables. This easy recipe requires minimal effort and uses pantry staples to create a delicious dressing that beats store-bought versions.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined.
- Add the celery seed (if using) and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk again to incorporate.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning or sweetness if needed.
- Pour the dressing over a bowl of shredded cabbage and mix until evenly coated. For best results, let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes:
- Substitute white vinegar or lemon juice for apple cider vinegar if desired.
- Adjust the sugar to suit your taste preference for sweetness.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayonnaise.
Equipment:
Medium mixing bowl, whisk
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Makes about 3/4 cup, enough for 6-8 servings of coleslaw.
Nutrition
Coleslaw dressing is a creamy and tangy addition to fresh vegetables. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a typical homemade version.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Total Carbs | 5 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving this coleslaw with classic BBQ pairings like pulled pork or grilled chicken—it adds a cool crunch that balances smoky flavors. For lighter meals, I pair it with fresh summer sides, like corn on the cob or a simple cucumber salad. It’s so versatile, you can’t go wrong!
Classic BBQ Pairings
When you’re firing up the grill for a classic BBQ, coleslaw is one of those sides that just makes everything better—it’s crisp, creamy, and cuts through the richness of smoky meats. I love pairing it with juicy pulled pork sandwiches, where the tangy slaw balances the savory meat perfectly. It’s also a must with smoky ribs or brisket, adding a fresh crunch to every bite. For chicken, whether it’s grilled or fried, coleslaw brings a cool contrast. Don’t forget hot dogs or burgers—spooning slaw on top gives them that extra, invigorating kick. It’s BBQ magic!
Light Summer Sides
Light summer sides are the stars of any warm-weather meal, bringing freshness and balance to heavier dishes. I love pairing my coleslaw with crisp cucumber salad, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or a simple watermelon-feta mix for a sweet-and-salty kick. Grilled corn, brushed with butter and lime, adds smoky flavor, while a chilled pasta salad with cherry tomatoes keeps things light. Don’t forget pickled veggies—they’re crunchy, bright, and cut through rich flavors. These sides make every bite feel like summer, and they’re easy to whip up while the grill’s heating. Trust me, your plate will thank you.
