Name: Classic Coleslaw Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons sugar; 2 tablespoons unfiltered apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1 lemon); ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon granulated garlic; ½ teaspoon celery salt; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 large head of green cabbage, shredded (about 8-9 cups); 1 large carrot, shredded; 4 green onions, minced

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If you’re craving a crisp, refreshing side that perfectly balances creamy tang with a hint of sweetness, then this Classic Coleslaw Recipe is just what you need to brighten up any meal. This timeless coleslaw brings together crunchy shredded cabbage and carrots with a luscious, homemade dressing that’s bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a picnic, a barbecue, or a casual weeknight dinner, this Classic Coleslaw Recipe is that trusty, crowd-pleasing dish that always hits the spot and feels like a big, delicious hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You'll Need

A large white round plate filled with thin shredded light green cabbage in the center, topped with two quartered pieces of the same cabbage showing the pale inner layers. Surrounding the plate on a white marbled surface are various small white bowls and dishes with ingredients: finely shredded bright orange carrots in one bowl to the right, finely chopped green onions in a small wooden bowl below it, a small bowl of white granulated sugar above, and a tiny dish with amber liquid above that. On the left side, there is a tiny dish with a small amount of clear liquid, a small bowl filled with thick white mayonnaise-like sauce, and a small round white plate holding different powdered spices in various shades of beige, light brown, and white. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Classic Coleslaw Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of texture, tang, and subtle sweetness that makes coleslaw so irresistible.

¾ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that gives the dressing its smooth and rich texture.
3 tablespoons sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the tang of the vinegar and lemon.
2 tablespoons unfiltered apple cider vinegar: Brings a bright, acidic punch that wakes up the flavors.
1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1 lemon): Freshly squeezed for a zesty, citrusy lift.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the flavor with a subtle savory hint without overpowering the salad.
½ teaspoon granulated garlic: Adds a mild garlicky warmth that complements the dressing beautifully.
½ teaspoon celery salt: Infuses a touch of aromatic soul and enhances all the other spices.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Seasoning is key to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Offers a gentle kick and complexity.
1 large head of green cabbage, shredded (about 8-9 cups): The crunchy, fresh base that’s the heart and soul of this dish.
1 large carrot shredded: Adds vibrant color, sweetness, and extra crispness.
4 minced green onions: Deliver a fresh oniony bite and a pop of green that livens up the salad.

How to Make Classic Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, onion powder, granulated garlic, celery salt, sea salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This luscious dressing strikes the perfect balance between creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, making it the star flavor of your coleslaw.

Step 2: Toss the Vegetables

Next, add the shredded cabbage, freshly grated carrot, and minced green onions straight into your bowl of dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to make sure every crunchy shred is coated evenly with that dreamy dressing. This step is where all the magic happens, bringing the salad to life.

Step 3: Chill for Flavor Development

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chill time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cabbage to soften just enough while still keeping its satisfying crunch. Don’t forget to toss it again right before serving to refresh the coating and redistribute any dressing that’s settled.

How to Serve Classic Coleslaw Recipe

The image shows four stages of making a salad dressing and salad. The first stage is a clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface containing a smooth, thick white layer of mayo, with dark brown soy sauce, light yellow mustard, and some light brown and black spices on top, arranged in sections. The second stage is a clear glass bowl divided into three parts: one filled with bright orange shredded carrots on the left, pale green shredded cabbage on the right, and small dark green chopped herbs at the bottom, all on a white marbled surface. The third stage shows the same clear glass bowl from above, but now the ingredients are mixed into a creamy salad with visible strands of orange, pale green, and green herbs, with a silver fork and spoon resting inside on the same white marbled surface. The fourth stage has the salad placed neatly in a white bowl, where the creamy mixture of shredded pale green cabbage, bright orange carrots, and green herbs is evenly spread inside, also on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Drizzling a little extra fresh lemon juice or sprinkling chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a lovely brightness and fresh aroma to your Classic Coleslaw Recipe. A small handful of toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can also add an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor that plays so well with the creamy dressing.

Side Dishes

Classic coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as barbecue ribs, burgers, or chicken. It’s also fantastic alongside fried fish, pulled pork sandwiches, or even as a crisp, refreshing topping on tacos. Its cool crunch offers a delightful contrast that complements rich, smoky, or spicy dishes effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond the classic bowl, try serving this coleslaw in mini mason jars for a charming picnic presentation or stuffed inside crisp lettuce cups for a fresh, lighter take. You can even use it as a colorful, crunchy layer in layered salads or sandwiches, making each bite exciting and fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Classic Coleslaw Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle or the cabbage might release some liquid.

Freezing

Coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh to keep that signature crisp texture, so freezing is not recommended. The cabbage and vegetables tend to become watery and mushy once thawed, which takes away the wonderful crunch that defines this dish.

Reheating

This Classic Coleslaw Recipe is meant to be served chilled, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer a room temperature salad, simply take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I substitute the green cabbage with red cabbage?

Absolutely! Red cabbage will add a beautiful color contrast and slightly different flavor to your Classic Coleslaw Recipe. Just be sure to shred it finely for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this coleslaw recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative to keep the creamy texture while making the dish fully plant-based.

How far in advance can I prepare the coleslaw?

You can make this coleslaw up to a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated and toss it again before serving to refresh the flavors and texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in finely sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even apples for extra crunch and flavor variations.

What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?

If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or even rice vinegar can work well, although apple cider vinegar gives the dressing its signature tang.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Coleslaw Recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a comforting, versatile salad that brightens up any meal with its perfect combination of creaminess, sweetness, and crunch. I encourage you to give it a try soon; it’s quick to make, endlessly satisfying, and sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes for gatherings and everyday dinners alike.

Classic Coleslaw Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need