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Creamy Classic Coleslaw Recipe

4.8 from 51 reviews

A classic coleslaw recipe featuring finely shredded green cabbage and shredded carrot, tossed in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, celery salt, and black pepper. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats. The coleslaw benefits from resting time to soften the cabbage and allow the flavors to meld.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 7 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (Note 1)
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Hellmann’s mayonnaise (or other whole egg mayonnaise)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or yoghurt (full fat preferred)
  • 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or substitute with white wine vinegar)
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp white sugar
  • 3/4 tsp celery salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, thoroughly mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or yoghurt), apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, white sugar, celery salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  2. Combine vegetables and dressing: Place the finely shredded green cabbage and shredded carrot into a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables, then toss everything well to ensure the cabbage and carrot are evenly coated.
  3. Let the coleslaw rest: Set the bowl aside for at least 20 minutes before serving, ideally for about 2 hours. This resting time helps the cabbage soften and release moisture, which thins out the dressing and brings out the flavors. For best results, you can let it sit overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Final toss and serve: Before serving, toss the coleslaw once more to recombine any dressing that may have collected at the bottom. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.

Notes

  • For best flavor and texture, allow coleslaw to rest for at least 2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
  • Using full-fat sour cream or yoghurt will create a creamier, richer dressing.
  • Apple cider vinegar can be substituted with white wine vinegar if preferred.
  • Adjust sugar quantity to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
  • Celery salt adds a subtle depth, but regular salt can be used as a substitute if unavailable.
  • Ensure cabbage is finely shredded for a traditional coleslaw texture.

Keywords: coleslaw, cabbage salad, creamy coleslaw, picnic side dish, BBQ side, easy salad, classic coleslaw