Easy Coleslaw Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple and delicious side dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a crunchy topping for sandwiches, this Easy Coleslaw Recipe has got you covered.
With crisp cabbage and bright carrots tossed in a zesty dressing, it’s as refreshing as it is satisfying.
Not only is it easy to make, but it can also be prepared ahead of time, making it a go-to for any gathering. Get ready to enjoy a classic dish that everyone will love!

Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 200
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 250 mg
Why I Love This Easy Coleslaw Recipe
I absolutely adore this Easy Coleslaw Recipe because it brings back so many summer memories! Whether it’s a family picnic or a backyard barbecue, coleslaw is a staple that the whole family enjoys.
What makes this recipe special is how quickly you can whip it up and how the flavors really meld together after some time in the fridge.
It’s the perfect balance of creaminess and crunch, and honestly, it’s so easy that even your kids can help with the prepping! Plus, it’s versatile—great as a side dish or even a topping for pulled pork sandwiches!
Ingredients
1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
2 large carrots, grated
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Easy Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Cabbage and Carrots
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrots. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together. The vibrant colors are already inviting!
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Make sure you whisk until it’s smooth and well combined. The dressing should be creamy with a kick from the vinegar!
Step 3: Toss Together
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens—watch each piece get a glossy layer of flavor!
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften just a tad, creating a refreshing crunch.
Tips & Variations
- Make it ahead: Coleslaw tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance for picnics or potlucks!
- Serve it chilled: Always serve coleslaw cold for that refreshing crunch—perfect for warm weather!
- Add some spice: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Swap for healthier options: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or consider leaving the sugar out altogether for a no-sugar added option.
Delicious Variations
- Creamy Avocado Coleslaw: Swap mayonnaise for avocado for a creamy, nutritious twist.
- Asian-inspired Slaw: Add sesame oil, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian flair.
- Apple & Raisin Coleslaw: Incorporate diced apples and raisins for a sweet and crunchy version.
- Spicy Chipotle Slaw: Mix in chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Coleslaw Recipe
This Easy Coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or burgers. Serve it chilled on the side or pile it high on a pulled pork sandwich for an exceptional bite!
It also makes for an amazing topping on fish tacos—just imagine that crunch alongside the tender fish.
As for drinks, a crisp lemonade or iced tea complements this dish perfectly!
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, but for the best texture, I recommend consuming it within 1 to 2 days.
Freezing coleslaw is not ideal, as it can become soggy upon thawing.
Helpful Questions
Can I use pre-packaged coleslaw mix?
Absolutely! Pre-packaged coleslaw mix is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just skip the shredding step.How do I make my coleslaw less creamy?
Simply reduce the amount of mayonnaise in the recipe. You can also substitute part of it with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.Can I make this coleslaw vegan?
Yes! Use a vegan mayonnaise alternative and make sure your sugar is vegan to keep it plant-based.What can I add for more flavor?
Chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a fresh taste to your coleslaw. You might also consider adding lemon juice for an extra zing!How can I adjust for my dietary restrictions?
For gluten-free, this recipe is already safe! For lower sugar, omit the sugar or use a sugar substitute. Adjust the mayonnaise to be a dairy-free version if needed.
Enjoy this Easy Coleslaw Recipe, and happy cooking!
Print
Easy Coleslaw
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious side dish perfect for summer barbecues, featuring crisp cabbage and bright carrots in a zesty dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrots. Toss gently to mix.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Coleslaw tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance. Serve chilled for the best crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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