Fresh, crunchy, and made completely from scratch with a homemade creamy coleslaw dressing that's perfectly tangy and not overly sweet. This Coleslaw recipe is a keeper!
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that never goes out of style. Whether you're serving it alongside pulled pork or crispy chicken tenders, this Traditional Coleslaw Recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. It's fresh, crunchy, and made completely from scratch with a homemade creamy coleslaw dressing that's perfectly tangy and not overly sweet.
I've been making this homemade creamy coleslaw for years, and it's one of those recipes that always gets rave reviews. The balance of tangy, creamy, and crunchy is just right, and it's even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
👇Jump to:
My Latest Videos
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Apple Cider Vinegar - This adds a nice tangy flavor to the coleslaw dressing. If you don't have apple cider vinegar, plain white vinegar works as a great substitute.
- Lemon Juice - A little lemon juice adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dressing. Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.
- Green and Purple Cabbage - The combination of both cabbages adds color and texture. If you prefer, you can use all green cabbage.
How To Make Traditional Coleslaw
This coleslaw comes together in just a few easy steps. The hardest part is waiting for the flavors to meld!
STEP 1
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
STEP 2
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, onions and carrots to the bowl. Toss until the vegetables are evenly combined.
STEP 3
Now pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Give it a quick toss before serving. Enjoy!
💡Expert Tips:
- For the best flavor, let the coleslaw chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Add more or less of the dressing to fit your desired taste.
- Shred the cabbage yourself for the freshest texture, but pre-shredded coleslaw mix works great in a pinch.
More Delicious Recipes
FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube to stay connected!
If you tried this Traditional Coleslaw recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below!
📖 Recipe
Traditional Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 cups green cabbage thinly sliced or shredded
- 1 cup purple cabbage thinly sliced or shredded
- ½ cup carrots thinly sliced or shredded
- ¼ cup white, yellow or purple onion thinly sliced or small diced
- ½ cup mayo
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- pepper to taste
- 2 ½ teaspoons sugar
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, onions and carrots to the bowl. Toss until the vegetables are evenly combined.
- Now pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Give it a quick toss before serving. Enjoy!
joe S kodrea says
This is the way i make my coleslaw. Its good but there is always some water, and you have keep mixing it. I was thinking of salting the cabbage to get some of the water out.
Sky Pilgreen says
Hi there! You’re exactly right. Salting the cabbage a few hours ahead of time will draw out excess moisture and really help prevent the coleslaw from getting watery. Just be sure to rinse it well and pat it completely dry before adding the dressing. Another easy option is to mix the coleslaw together right before serving, which also keeps it nice and crisp.
joe S kodrea says
Thanks I'm going to try salting it. I've got some crock pot bbq pork coming up. cole slaw will go good with that. I like the purple onion in mine and i think it needs some sugar too.
Sky Pilgreen says
Sounds great! Enjoy!