Name: Creamy Southern Coleslaw with Tangy Apple Cider Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded; 1 cup carrots, shredded; ½ cup mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon celery seed; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Creamy Southern Coleslaw with a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing is a quintessential dish that embodies the essence of Southern cuisine. This delightful coleslaw not only brings a refreshing crunch but also complements various meals, especially barbecue and fried chicken. The rich creaminess paired with the zing of vinegar creates a perfect balance that tantalizes the taste buds. If you’re looking for a classic Southern coleslaw that’s easy to make, then this recipe is just what you need!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Southern Coleslaw with

There are countless reasons to adore this Southern coleslaw recipe. Firstly, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it an easy creamy coleslaw for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The combination of fresh green cabbage and shredded carrots provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy coleslaw dressing offers velvety smoothness. Not to mention, this coleslaw is versatile—it pairs excellently with grilled meats and can be served at picnics or potlucks. Moreover, you can easily customize it with variations like adding creamy coleslaw with vinegar or even trying a southern coleslaw with buttermilk. Lastly, it’s a vegetarian-friendly dish, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!

Ingredients for Creamy Southern Coleslaw with

Gather these items:

4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup carrots, shredded
½ cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon celery seed
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

How to Make Creamy Southern Coleslaw with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse the cabbage and carrots well. Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Finely shred about 4 cups of green cabbage and 1 cup of carrots.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and ½ teaspoon celery seed. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots. Toss gently until every shred is evenly coated.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably an hour.
Step 5: Before serving, give the slaw a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Fold in optional parsley or green onions if desired.

Creamy Southern Coleslaw with Tangy Apple Cider Dressing - Creamy Southern Coleslaw with - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Southern Coleslaw with

Keep these in mind:

This coleslaw pairs well with barbecue and fried chicken.
Adjust the sugar based on your taste preference.
For added flavor, consider incorporating some chopped apples or raisins for a twist on the classic Southern coleslaw.
Using freshly shredded cabbage instead of pre-packaged will enhance the crunchiness!

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Southern Coleslaw with

Here are some ideas:

Serve it alongside your favorite grilled meats for a perfect barbecue pairing.
Use it as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches for added texture.
This classic coleslaw side dish is also delightful on its own, making it a fantastic addition to any potluck.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Southern Coleslaw with

To store, cover the coleslaw tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the cabbage may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If preparing ahead, make the dressing separately and combine it with the vegetables just before serving. This method helps maintain the crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Southern Coleslaw with

What is creamy coleslaw?

Creamy coleslaw is a salad made primarily from finely shredded raw cabbage and dressed most commonly with a mayonnaise or cream-based dressing. This gives it a rich, smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with the crisp vegetables.

Can I make creamy Southern coleslaw with ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your coleslaw a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy Southern coleslaw with?

One common mistake is over-mixing the coleslaw, which can lead to mushy cabbage. Gently toss the ingredients to maintain that lovely crunch. Also, taste and adjust the seasoning before serving for the best flavor.

Variations of Creamy Southern Coleslaw with You Can Try

Here are a few creative variations:

Add chopped fruits like apples or pineapples for a sweet twist.
Incorporate nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Try a spicy version by adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your creamy dressing.